The Home Energy Audit: The First Step to an Energy Efficient Home

As a homeowner, you obviously want to prevent your utility bills from skyrocketing. Good news; You can invest in ways to improve the energy efficiency of your home. But, before making drastic changes to your home, you might consider an energy audit. Such an audit will provide an assessment of how much energy your homes use and assess how you can make your home more efficient. From here, you can start a plan of attack to make your home more energy-smart.

A professional energy audit involves hiring a professional, who will complete an audit that could cost you between $ 300 and $ 700. But fear not. Your short-term investment could reduce your heating bill by 40%! Likewise, you won’t need another audit for 15-20 years.

The auditor will most likely perform various tests including: a thermographic scan detecting air leaks and humidity issues, a combustion safety test for your heating system, a fan door test to determine how tight it is your home and also an insulation, electrical appliances and lighting survey. Professional energy audits go into great detail. The energy auditor should do a thorough examination of past utility bills and a room-by-room examination of the residence.

In terms of finding an auditor for the job, you can check with your utility company. Some companies may even offer free audits. Your state energy office may also be able to help you find a local company that conducts audits. Another place to look for a list of home energy qualifiers in your area is to visit the website, energystar.gov

There is also the option of a DIY energy audit. Start with a list of places in your home where you feel a draft. Simply by taking steps to reduce these drafts, either through door replacement or alternative methods, you can save up to 30% per year.

Next, test your home for indoor air leaks. These will typically be found at wall and ceiling seams, near electrical outlets, near the edge of the floor, next to baseboards, and around door and window frames. Simple caulking or weather stripping can help fix these leaks.

Inspect the areas on the outside of your home where the different building materials are located. Look for cracks in the base or siding. Seal tap holes, pipes, or around electrical outlets.

Lastly, check your oven and replace the filter as needed.

If not just to reduce utility costs, tax credits are another reason to make your home energy efficient. If you add insulation or replace windows, you could be eligible for tax credits of up to $ 500.

Whether you go with a professional energy audit or a DIY project, the information you gather on the energy efficiency of your home will be invaluable.