An energy audit is an inspection and analysis of energy flows in a building. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that having an energy audit performed on your home could save you 25% or more on your yearly energy consumption. What is the value of an energy audit? This includes identifying the systems and areas of opportunity that will have the greatest impact in improving comfort, indoor air quality, durability & reliability, energy efficiency as well as the health and safety of the occupants.
Different types of energy audits
- Historical Data Analysis-Utility bills are collected for 1-3 years to evaluate the home or facilities energy consumption history and energy usage profiles.
- Do-It-Yourself Home Energy Audits-A diligent do-it-yourself walk-through keeping a check list of repairs or changes needed to increase home energy efficiency. Sealing cracks and leaks can save 5-30% on heating bills in winter.
- Walk-through audits-a brief review of the home or facilities utility bills and other operating data, and a walk-through of the home or business to become familiar with the building operation and identify glaring areas of energy waste or inefficiency.
- Professional energy audit by certified energy auditor/energy rater-Many professional energy audits will include a blower door test. Most will also include a thermography scan and will identify all energy conservation measures appropriate for the home or business.
Preparation for an energy audit
Make a note of issues, such as dampness and unpleasant or drafty rooms, before the energy auditor arrives. Energy audits require a minimum of twelve months' worth of utility bills to properly examine a house or building's energy consumption patterns and energy usage history. This data is also used to help auditors plan out their search strategies for the audit.
Where do I find a good energy auditor and what should I look for?
The first thing you should do is find a certified energy auditor, preferably from a recognized company like Eversource or the Building Performance Institute (BPI). Choose an auditor with relevant experience and who will employ appropriate methods and equipment.
When choosing an auditor for a “professional energy audit” ask them if they use these proper tools:
- Combustible gas leak detector
- Carbon Monoxide analyzer
- Combustion Analyzer
- Digital manometer
- Blower door
- Duct Leakage testing equipment
- Thermal imaging camera
If you are interested in an energy audit assessment, you may contact Eversource at 877-659-6326 or visit their energy audit section at their website Eversource Energy Audit Assessment
For inquiries/concerns:
📞: 203-733-0147
✉️: marvinb@kw.com