Energy Audit: Definition and What it is
Comprehensive assessment of a building's energy use to identify efficiency improvements and insulation needs.
What is Energy Audit?
A home energy audit is a comprehensive assessment that identifies where your home is wasting energy and money. Professional auditors use specialized diagnostic equipment to measure air leakage, insulation levels, HVAC performance, and thermal deficiencies—providing a prioritized roadmap for cost-effective energy improvements.
Energy audits combine visual inspection with advanced testing like blower door tests (measuring whole-house air leakage), thermal imaging cameras (revealing heat loss patterns), combustion safety testing, and duct leakage measurement. The result is a detailed report showing exactly where energy upgrades will provide the greatest return on investment, typically identifying 20-40% energy savings potential.
Types of Energy Audits
- Walk-Through Audit: Basic visual assessment and utility bill analysis ($100-$300)
- Standard Energy Audit: Includes blower door test, thermal imaging, and detailed recommendations ($300-$500)
- Comprehensive Audit: Advanced diagnostics with energy modeling and ROI calculations ($500-$800)
- Utility-Sponsored Audits: Often subsidized or free through local utility companies
When to Get an Energy Audit
Schedule an energy audit before major renovations, when experiencing comfort problems, before purchasing a home, or if energy bills seem high. The best time is during extreme weather (winter or summer) when thermal issues are most apparent. Choose a certified auditor (BPI or RESNET certified) who uses calibrated equipment. Use the audit report to prioritize improvements by cost-effectiveness—air sealing and attic insulation typically offer the quickest payback.
Benefits of Energy Audit
- Identify hidden energy waste costing hundreds annually
- Prioritize improvements by return on investment
- Detect safety issues like carbon monoxide backdrafting
- Uncover moisture problems before they cause damage
- Qualify for energy efficiency rebates and financing
- Receive customized recommendations for your specific home
- Increase home value with documented efficiency improvements
Energy Audit Cost
Energy audits typically cost $300-$800 but often pay for themselves through identified savings.
- Audit level (walk-through vs. comprehensive)
- Home size and complexity
- Included diagnostics (blower door, thermal imaging, duct testing)
- Utility company subsidies (may reduce cost to $0-$100)
- Report detail and energy modeling
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