One of the best first steps to assessing the energy efficiency of your home is a home energy audit. An audit can be done by a professional for the most complete evaluation. However, a thorough do-it-yourself audit can also identify key problem areas without the cost. In this blog, we will cover the ins and outs of professional home energy audits.
So, what IS a home energy audit, exactly? It’s a thorough, room-by-room examination of your home, pinpointing energy inefficiencies and providing an illustration of your home’s energy use. Making upgrades based on the results can not only save you money, but also help keep your home more comfortable all year long.
Professional Home Energy Audits
Energy auditors are incredibly thorough, not only examining each room with special tools and tests, but often include evaluating past utility bills. You can expect a professional assessment to include:
Blower Door Test – Uses a special fan to depressurize the home to locate leaks
Thermographic Scan – Infrared camera detects sources of energy loss based on temperature
Insulation Inspection – Evaluates the type of insulation and wall framing type
Air Leakage Assessment – Looks for improperly sealed outlets, fixtures, chimney bypasses, recessed lighting, HVAC ducts, doors and windows
Wiring – Assesses electrical hazards throughout the residence
Water Leakage – Pinpoints water leaks in basements and on the roof
Furnace Evaluation – Tests for fuel leaks, and cleanliness of filter and blower
Water Heater Assessment – Notates thermostat setting, insulation on tank and piping, and tests draft hood
Combustion Appliance Zone Testing – Assesses all fuel fired combustible appliances
Duct System and Dryer VentingInspection – Checks status of ducts for leaks and excess debris
Kitchen and Bathroom Moisture and Excess Water Vapor/Flow Rate of Vent Fans – Looks for proper ventilation
Door and Window Condensation Range – Evaluates condensation throughout entire house for insufficient sealing
Number and Location of Air Register Vents – Ensures sufficient ventilation and checks for leaks and excess debris
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Test – Looks for fully functioning detectors
Indoor Air Quality – Inspects air to ensure furnace filters and ductwork are unobstructed and working properly
Fireplace Inspection – Verifies ventilation is appropriate and with minimal leaks in chimney bypasses
Review Thermostat Type and Setting – Assesses efficiency of thermostat and preferred setting
Check out the U.S. Department of Energy’s home energy audit infographic for more details. Click here for a list of professionals recommended by the U.S. Department of Energy who perform home energy audits.
Where Can I Find Energy-Efficient Products?
ENERGY STAR® is a government supported program which provides credible, unbiased information for consumers and businesses on energy efficient products, homes, buildings and plants, so they can make well-informed decisions. All their certified products can be easily identified by the ENERGY STAR emblem and are guaranteed to save money without sacrificing features or functionality.
AEP Energy Reward Store is our one-stop online marketplace filled with a variety of energy-saving and connected-home products available exclusively for our valued customers. It is a simple and convenient way for you to shop for items to make your home more energy efficient while saving you time and money.
You can earn Reward Dollars to use in Reward Store by enrolling on an AEP Energy price plan. One month after your enrollment date, you will start earning Reward Dollars to use towards your purchases in Reward Store. Simply collect Reward Dollars each month. Shop AEP Energy Reward Store products. And redeem your Reward Dollars instantly at checkout.
AEP Energy does not guarantee the accuracy, timeliness, suitability, completeness, freedom from error, or value of any information herein. The information presented is provided “as is”, “as available”, and for informational purposes only, speaks only to events or circumstances on or before the date it is presented, and should not be construed as advice, a recommendation, or a guarantee of future results. AEP Energy disclaims any and all liabilities and warranties related hereto, including any obligation to update or correct the information herein. Summaries and website links included herein (collectively, “Links”) are not under AEP Energy’s control and are provided for reference only and not for commercial purposes. AEP Energy does not endorse or approve of the Links or related information and does not provide any warranty of any kind or nature related thereto.
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AEP Energy Reward Store is filled with a variety of energy-saving products for your home. It is a simple and convenient way for you to shop for items to make your home more energy efficient while saving you time and money.
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Shop AEP Energy Reward Store for energy-efficient products like smart thermostats, LED lighting, and more.
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Brandi Nye, Managing Director of Business Solutions
Brandi is an expert in her field with professional experience in the sustainability industry. Not only does Brandi have solid base knowledge, but she continues to grow her acumen through various learning and development experiences. Brandi is a creative and thoughtful utility professional with expertise in regulatory and utility operations.