A home energy audit is designed to identify improvements that will add comfort and enhance the performance of your HVAC system.
#1 Identify air leakage areas.
To achieve a higher level of energy efficiency, it's important to find air leaks in your home. If the weather is chilly, feel your window frames, doorframes, electrical outlets and switch plates. If you notice cold air flowing indoors, you'll need to add weather stripping or insulation panels.
You should also check air vents, baseboards and places where floors, ceilings and walls meet. Caulk any holes or cracks you find (typically where pipe fittings or wires enter your home).
#2 Evaluate Your Windows
Older windows with poor energy efficiency will cost you in heating and cooling expenses during extreme weather. Check your window's U-factor (the rate at which heat is lost) and consider replacing windows with a rating of 1.00 or higher. Adding window insulation provides additional protection against heating loss.
#3 Consider Attic Insulation
Depending on the age of your home, it's likely that your insulation is inadequate. Over the last several decades, standards have increased regarding thermal resistance. Consider upgrading your insulation with a higher resistance value (R-value). Highly rated insulation will provide greater efficiency in reducing heat loss (via ceilings and attic).
#4 Evaluate the Attic Opening
If your attic opens into a living space, make sure to check for any small gaps or holes around the opening. Add weather stripping as necessary to seal off any potential leaks.
#5 Reduce Electronic Energy Waste
Power drawn while an electronic device is not in use is known as "standby power." To cut down on energy loss, connect the following devices to a surge protector:
. Televisions
. Game consoles
. DVD players
. Blu-Ray players
. DVRs
. Microwaves
. Coffee makers
. Computer towers
. Laptop power supplies
. Printers
Conclusion
Identifying energy waste in your home is the first step toward creating a sustainable household. Be sure to remedy any efficiency issues in order to maximize your energy savings.
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