Energy audits for homes can help you save on utility bills and boost the efficiency of your home. By finding areas where energy is lost, you can take steps to improve upon them and create a more comfortable living space. This article will walk you through what a house energy audit is, common inefficiencies you may find, and steps to address them.
What Is a Home Energy Audit?
A home energy audit is a comprehensive inspection and assessment of your home’s energy usage. The audit process includes evaluating factors like insulation quality, heating and cooling efficiency, air leaks, and the performance of key appliances. The goal is to pinpoint areas where energy is wasted, which, when resolved, can lead to lower utility bills and a more ecofriendly home.
You might wonder, are home energy audits worth it? Absolutely. Even a basic energy assessment of your home can help you identify areas to improve upon and, in turn, save on energy costs. Some homeowners even opt for a professional assessment, but a DIY audit can reveal plenty of actionable insights.
How to Conduct Energy Audits for Homes
The best time to to conduct an energy assessment of your home is in the fall before the temperatures drop too low and your energy bill gets too high. Although it may sound intimidating to complete a DIY energy audit, the steps are pretty straightforward:
1. Inspect Insulation and Air Leaks: Poor insulation and air leaks are common culprits of energy inefficiency. Start by checking windows, doors, and attics, as these areas are prone to leaks that let air escape. Hold a lit incense stick or a piece of tissue near door frames and windows; if the smoke or tissue wavers, there may be a draft.
Pro Tip: Seal leaks with caulk or weatherstripping and consider upgrading insulation if it’s older or worn. This simple step can greatly reduce energy waste.
2. Evaluate HVAC System Efficiency: Heating and cooling systems are typically the largest consumers of energy in a home. If you notice that your HVAC system runs continuously or struggles to reach the set temperature, it may be time for maintenance or replacement.
3. Examine Major Appliances: Old or inefficient appliances can drain energy. Conducting a home energy assessment that includes your refrigerator, washer, dryer, and water heater can reveal how much energy each consumes. If any appliance is more than a decade old, upgrading to an ENERGY STAR-rated model can make a noticeable difference in energy use.
4. Review Lighting: Lighting might seem minor, but switching to LED bulbs can reduce electricity usage by up to 75% compared to traditional bulbs. Additionally, make sure that lights are off when not in use to avoid unnecessary energy consumption.
5. Check for Standby Power Consumption: Many electronics use energy even when they’re turned off, often called "phantom load" or standby power. Unplugging devices or using smart power strips can eliminate this wasteful usage.
