Home Energy Audit Procedure
This playbook provides a structured approach to performing a home energy audit. It is designed to guide individuals through the sequential steps for evaluating their home's energy usage and identifying opportunities for energy savings.
Step 1: Preparation
Gather all necessary materials such as a flashlight, ladder, notebook, pen, and a measuring tape. Additionally, collect past energy bills for reference.
Step 2: Exterior Inspection
Examine the outside of the home for any signs of damage or areas where air might be entering or escaping, such as windows, doors, and vents.
Step 3: Interior Inspection
Inside the home, check for air leaks using a draft detector or incense stick. Look around windows, doors, electrical outlets, and light fixtures.
Step 4: Insulation Check
Inspect the attic, walls, and floors to assess the level and quality of the insulation. Ensure it meets the recommended guidelines for your geographic region.
Step 5: Heating/Cooling Systems
Review the age, condition, and maintenance history of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Consider opportunities for upgrades or tune-ups.
Step 6: Appliance Assessment
Analyze the efficiency of home appliances, including the refrigerator, dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer. Note their age and energy ratings.
Step 7: Lighting Evaluation
Record the types of light bulbs used throughout the home. Consider replacing incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs or CFLs.
Step 8: Behavioral Factors
Observe household habits that may impact energy consumption, such as the temperature settings on the thermostat, the duration of showers, and standby power usage.
Step 9: Data Analysis
Review all gathered information and cross-reference with past energy bills to find patterns and areas with the highest energy usage.
Step 10: Improvement Plan
Develop a prioritized list of potential improvements based on the audit findings to maximize energy savings, beginning with simple, low-cost measures.
Step 11: Implementation
Start executing the improvement plan, addressing quick wins immediately such as sealing air leaks or changing light bulbs, and planning for larger upgrades.
Step 12: Follow-up
Monitor energy bills following the implementation of changes to gauge the effectiveness of the audit and make necessary adjustments to the improvement plan.
General Notes
Professional Help
Consider hiring a professional energy auditor for a more thorough assessment, especially for complex heating and cooling systems or structural elements.
Incentives
Look into local government or utility rebates and incentives for making energy-efficient home improvements.
Seasonal Considerations
Energy efficiency can be affected by seasonal changes, so consider conducting audits at different times of the year for comprehensive understanding.