Home Energy Audit Procedure

Gather all necessary materials such as a flashlight, ladder, notebook, pen, and a measuring tape. Additionally, collect past energy bills for reference.

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.

Inside the home, check for air leaks using a draft detector or incense stick. Look around windows, doors, electrical outlets, and light fixtures.

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.

Review the age, condition, and maintenance history of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Consider opportunities for upgrades or tune-ups.

Analyze the efficiency of home appliances, including the refrigerator, dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer. Note their age and energy ratings.

Record the types of light bulbs used throughout the home. Consider replacing incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs or CFLs.

Observe household habits that may impact energy consumption, such as the temperature settings on the thermostat, the duration of showers, and standby power usage.

Review all gathered information and cross-reference with past energy bills to find patterns and areas with the highest energy usage.

Develop a prioritized list of potential improvements based on the audit findings to maximize energy savings, beginning with simple, low-cost measures.

Start executing the improvement plan, addressing quick wins immediately such as sealing air leaks or changing light bulbs, and planning for larger upgrades.

Monitor energy bills following the implementation of changes to gauge the effectiveness of the audit and make necessary adjustments to the improvement plan.

Consider hiring a professional energy auditor for a more thorough assessment, especially for complex heating and cooling systems or structural elements.

Look into local government or utility rebates and incentives for making energy-efficient home improvements.

Energy efficiency can be affected by seasonal changes, so consider conducting audits at different times of the year for comprehensive understanding.