Is A Home Energy Audit Worth It?
Did you know that the average household in the United States (US) spends over USD$2,200 on energy bills yearly? The primary culprits of high electricity bills are usually heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, which account for about half of the total energy usage in a home.
This data puts the US at the second top of the world’s energy consumption list, with 92.97 in exajoules used in 2021, according to the research published by Statista. While there are many ways to reduce your energy consumption and save money, one of the most effective is to get a home energy audit.
What is a home energy audit?
A home energy audit is an assessment of your home’s energy efficiency. Professional auditors conduct tests to determine where your home is losing energy. They also recommend energy-saving methods to improve your home’s energy efficiency.
The audit process usually includes the following:
- Visual inspection of your home’s insulation, windows, and doors
- Evaluation of your HVAC systems
- Review of your energy consumption
- Blower door test, which depressurizes your house to find leaks
- Duct blaster test, which tests for leaks in your ductwork
Only licensed energy auditors should conduct all the said evaluations. Consider home energy audit San Antonio services or check out other listings near your area. Ensure to choose a reliable company that provides outstanding services.
Why get a home energy audit?
Now knowing what a home energy audit is, dig deeper to see if it’s worth your time and money and if you should get one. Here are some benefits of having a home energy audit:
1. Reduced energy consumption
Energy bills are one of the most significant expenses for families, accounting for 19% of household expenditures. But this cost could be dramatically reduced by becoming more energy-efficient.
As mentioned, the auditor will check every nook and cranny from the outside to the inside of your house to detect air leaks and other problems resulting in power wastage. They’ll analyze your energy consumption and provide advice to conserve and lower your utility bills.
You may also be eligible for government rebates and incentives. For example, the US Department of Energy (DOE) offers a Home Energy Score program that rates every home’s energy efficiency on a scale of 1-10. The higher the score, the more energy-efficient your home is, and the more rebates you may be eligible for.
2. Lower carbon footprint
In a 2019 study, households were responsible for 72% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions. The biggest contribution to these emissions comes from energy usage, which releases carbon dioxide, methane, and other harmful gases into the atmosphere.
A home energy audit is an excellent starting point if you’re an eco-conscious individual and want to reduce your carbon footprint. For instance, the auditor will check your appliances to see if they’re Energy Star certified. This label is a US government-backed program that helps people save money and do their share in saving the planet with energy-efficient products.
3. Improve home comfort
Your home should be a haven where you can feel relaxed and comfortable. But if drafts are coming in from the windows or doors, it could make your home feel colder in the winter and warmer in the summer. That’s uncomfortable and can result in higher power bills as you blast the heat or air conditioning to compensate for the lost comfort.
You can avoid that by having a home energy audit. The inspector will conduct a blower door test to find cracks or gaps in your home’s envelope. How does it work? The auditor will seal all doors and windows, then turn on a powerful fan to depressurize your house. The fan will force air out of the cracks and gaps, making them easier to spot. The auditor will recommend the best way to fix leaks if there are leaks.
It’s also worth noting that the equipment isn’t the typical household fan; it’s a specialized one that can create up to 50 pascals of pressure.
There’s nothing better than coming home to a comfortable and eco-friendly house after a long busy day.
4. Boost home’s resale value
If you plan to sell your house, it’d be wise to start improving its resale value. One way to do that is by making your home more energy-efficient.
Homebuyers are now looking for houses that offer long-term savings. In fact, homes with environmental-friendly features sell up to 10 days faster. So, if you want your home more attractive to potential buyers, consider getting a home energy audit.
Conclusion
The advantages of getting a home energy audit can’t be overemphasized. Now that you know about home energy audits, it’s time to decide whether it’s the right solution for you. If it does, ensure to hire a reputable energy auditor to get the most out of the assessment.
