How to Do a Home Energy Audit

We have recently moved into a new, bigger house in a new neighborhood. This was a fantastic time to do a home energy audit and determine how we can save more while living green in our new location. Moving isn't the only time to do a home energy audit. You can routinely check every 6 to 12 months and you will also want to do so if you notice increased energy consumption.

Here are some checkpoints to look for in your home energy audit:

Locate and identify air leaks. There are loads of places where air can leak into and out of your home such as through electrical outlets, switch plates, baseboards, doors and windows, fireplaces and more. The U.S. Department of Energy has detailed information about the locations of air leaks and how to find them in your home.

Check your insulation. Heat loss often happens through the ceiling and walls of your home. Energy needs change over the years and when your home was built, the insulation that was installed may not be the necessary amount needed today. The older your home, the more likely you have inadequate insulation.

Check your light bulbs. This is one of the quickest and easiest ways to reduce the energy used in your home. Check the types of bulbs you have and also their wattages. In many cases, people use a higher wattage than necessary (100 watts instead of 60).

Evaluate heating and cooling units. Be sure they are serviced properly, up to date and that you change all filters regularly.

Now that you have your checklist completed, what do you do with the information you obtained? Your home energy audit is one of the most valuable tools you will ever have for saving money and living eco-friendly. Using the results of your energy audit, it's time to:

Make necessary repairs. Simple changes like replacing the weather stripping around the doors can save you a lot and don't cost a lot to do. Any repairs that you are not qualified to do yourself are worth the investment of hiring a professional.

Negotiate with your electric company. Talk with your energy provider about different plans and rates available. I live in a climate with very hot summers so energy consumption goes up in the hot months and down in the cooler months. My company offers me a locked-in, balanced rate so I pay for my average consumption over 12 months, split into monthly payments. This prevents a huge bill coming in August.

Sources:

U.S. Department of Energy - Energy Savers