What is a Home Energy Audit?
A home energy audit is similar to a miles-per-gallon rating on a car. It provides an evaluation of a home’s energy efficiency performance and recommends cost effective upgrades. The audit is performed by a trained, certified and quality controlled Energy Auditor, and will consider such factors as insulation, air leaks, HVAC systems, local climate and utility rates to evaluate the home and calculate energy costs. The Energy Audit Report will contain information on where your home is wasting energy, ways you can correct or improve it and a cost payback calculation for any improvements. What are the Benefits of a Home Energy Audit? - Lower your utility costs & save money - An energy audit shows you how you can lower your utility bills and save money!
- Increase the value of your home - Any real estate investor will tell you that lowering the operating costs of a property positively effects its value. With lower operating costs through savings on utilities comes a higher resale value. The Oct. 1998 issue of the Appraisal Journal reported that the market value increases $20 for every $1 decrease in annual utility cost. Additionally, a 2008 study of home sales data in Seattle showed that certified homes (LEED, Energy Star, etc.) sold for 4% more in 18% less time over their non-certified counterparts. *See sidebar for links to sources.
- Gain a market edge - Buyers will view your home as more desirable due to the reduced utility costs and increased monthly savings. Additionally the home will feel more comfortable with less drafts and a more even temperature distribution throughout the home. Indoor air quality is also benefited from an energy audit. There are countless ways unhealthy air can fill a home such as carbon monoxide and mold. Your home’s buyers will be happier knowing the home they are choosing will be safer for them.
- Rebates, Tax Incentives & Special Financing Programs - Currently there are state & federal incentives for increasing your home’s energy efficiency as well as special financing programs. *Visit the Going Green tab for links to more information and program availability.
What should I look for in a Home Energy Auditor? When hiring an energy auditor you should look for certifications. Have they been certified by a reputable organization? What was required for them to earn the certification? What do they have to do to maintain their certification? RESNET, BPI & Energy Star are common certification programs for this industry. Ask what will be contained in the report they will be giving you. Will the report contain a cost payback projection analysis? Ask what kinds of equipement they will be using to perform the audit and why. Common tools an energy auditor will use are a blower door test, thermal imaging and computer modeling software. As with any industry, you should always ask if they are insured. Accidents happen so it's best to be prepared. Ask if they have to adhere to any kind of quality control for their services. For instance, is there an independant company verifying the work that they do is accurate? Ask for referrals to individuals who have used their services in the past. Check Angie's List to see if anyone has entered in a report card for their services. Ask people you know for a referral to an energy auditor. The industry is still experiencing growing pains so it is vitally important that you thoroughly research anyone you hire to audit your home. There are many companies and indiduals offering auditing services that may not be properly trained or insured. Do your homework and you will find the time and effort to be well worth it. |