Why Get an Energy Audit?

An energy audit is the process of inspecting a building for different factors that impact energy consumption. The evaluations are then recorded, so that any opportunities for energy conservation may be identified and implemented. An energy audit can offer several benefits for homeowners, businesses and the environment.

The Process

An energy audit can be a basic do-it-yourself process. For a basic energy audit, you will require records of energy payments for the past year. Websites such as Energy Star offer help and questionnaires that will guide you in completing a basic energy assessment of your home. This process will give you some basic feedback on the energy efficiency of your home.

However, a professional audit by an energy auditor provides a much more thorough and detailed look at the energy leaks in your home. Professionals use equipment such as infrared devices and blower door tests, which can detect small, inconspicuous parts of your home that may be leaking air in and out. The auditor will also perform a walk through around your home and thoroughly inspect your energy appliances as well. A professional audit will cost around $200 or more, but you may qualify for tax rebates if you perform one. An average home can also save more than $500 every year in energy costs, if the recommendations are correctly followed.

Why Get an Energy Audit?

• Homes and other buildings are responsible for a considerable percentage of greenhouse gases and other toxic emissions. A homeowner can make a significant impact on the environment by assessing home energy efficiency and taking into account the drawbacks that need to be fixed.
  
  
• An energy audit can detect small issues that otherwise go unnoticed. Gaps in insulation, leaks in ducts, gas leaks and badly sealed doors and windows can cause a great deal of energy wastage. These issues can be detected and fixed efficiently with a professional energy audit.
  
  
• You can make a positive impact on the environment and reduce your carbon footprint by reducing the energy losses from your home or business structure. Increased energy efficiency means increased productivity and a better comfort level at lower costs.
  
  
• You can save hundreds of dollars every year on energy bills. An energy audit helps you reduce energy consumption without having to give up on your level of comfort. In fact, energy efficient homes offer a greater deal of comfort at a lower price. Homes that leak air, have drafts or appliances that are not energy efficient spend much more on energy bills.
  
  
• In most places, the government helps homeowners and business people with professional energy audits. You may qualify for tax rebates when you hire a professional, and you don’t end up paying the entire amount for the energy audit process.
  
  
• By improving the energy efficiency of your home, you can increase the value of your home. Factors such as air-tight windows and doors, efficient furnaces and air-conditioning equipment, good ventilation and ducts are selling factors for any home.