What Is An Energy Audit?

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An energy inspection or audit is designed to assess various

aspects of

a property, in order to save the customer money on the

household

energy bill. The efficiency of appliances, mechanical

systems, the

structure’s envelope and the home’s orientation are

evaluated to design

the best plan for creating a more energy

efficient home. Audits are

typically more comprehensive than

energy inspections as they

incorporate infrared technology, a

blower door test and computer

analysis, in order to accurately

pinpoint problem areas in a home. Short

and/or long term plans

can be designed. The use of the client’s yearly

energy bill is

helpful in creating such a plan.

Household appliances and fixtures are assessed by examining

their

input/output ratio. Typically, Energy Star upgrades are

recommended

where appropriate (an upgrade can reduce energy

usage by 40%) and

compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs—these

convert about 20% of the

electricity flowing through them to light

vs. the 5% that incandescent

bulbs convert). These decisions are

based on the short and long term

needs of the homeowner. In

addition, the mechanical systems such as

the heating/cooling,

ventilation and thermostat are also assessed.

One of the most important concerns of the energy inspection or

audit is

to assess the structure’s envelope. This refers to the

barrier between

the interior and exterior environment. The quality

of the structure and its

ability to maintain temperature efficiently

and regulate moisture and air

flow are key areas of concern. The

energy audit includes inspection of

the foundation, roof, walls,

doors and windows. The specific condition

of the components and

the types of materials used is assessed as

related to air leakage

and to determine the R-factor of these

components. (The R-factor

refers to the component’s thermal

resistance.) Recommendations

are then made as to how to improve on

the quality of the

envelope’s components. These recommendations

might include

adding insulation, energy efficient windows, sealing

doors and

windows, insulating the hot water heater and water lines,

and

sealing and insulating ducts transporting hot and cold air.

The results of the audit include a report of the findings as well as

recommendations on how to improve the energy efficiency of the

home. Reports generated by an audit normally include infrared