Pointers

What to Expect with an Energy Auditor

March 3, 2017 / Permit Pointers

If you’ve taken the steps to engage an energy auditor to gain more control over your energy efficiency, you may be wondering what to expect during your audit.

In the way of time expectations you will likely spend about two and a half to three hours with an auditor in your home. The auditor will likely focus on three main areas: the power draw of your electronics, your water usage, and the insulation within your property.

Your energy auditor will use a meter to determine the power draw or any “phantom power” escaping your appliances and electronics. Any issues here could simply require a power bar, unplugging the device or replacing the inefficient appliance.

An energy auditor will also likely check the energy efficiency of your water flow. They do this by checking the water flow rate of a sink or shower to be sure water isn’t flowing at an excessive rate. If you’re in the midst of a home remodel, there is always the option of looking into more energy efficient faucets or shower heads.

One of the most important evaluations during an energy audit is determining your property’s ACH, or “Air Change Rate per Hour.” The process includes checking windows, doors and floorboards for any air escaping the property which would require the need for excess heat to keep a property warm, proving to be very inefficient. Most energy auditors will use thermal imaging to determine the existence of cold air leaking into a property from the outside. They will then make recommendations for caulking, repairs or a remodel to increase your property’s energy efficiency.

Following your formal audit you will likely receive a report on your home’s performance, where you need to make necessary changes, and how your home’s energy efficiency compares to other homes across the country.