From Guest Blogger Joel Smith: Increase Your Home’s Energy Efficiency

Have you considered an energy audit on your home lately? You might be wondering if it is worth the trouble of having someone come out to audit your home. What does it do? Why is it necessary? What will they find when they look at my home energy usage?All these questions and more are probably hanging around in your mind. Take a few minutes to find out below why an energy audit is necessary and important to your home. You’ll also find out a few key areas the energy audit can help you locate and make your home more efficient in heating or cooling.

What is an energy audit?
An energy audit is where you, or your HVAC technician, makes an inspection of your home to find areas where you are losing energy. The technician can check areas you may not think of but be aware that a thorough energy audit can cost over $200 depending on the size of home and what is involved. The audit will consist of checking for drafts, checking your HVAC unit itself, and inspecting the home for possible leaks and problems.

Where am I losing air/heat?
This is what your energy audit will determine. A few places you can be losing energy is around the pump of your HVAC unit. If you have not had it maintained in a while it can be causing a huge drain on your energy bill. Other areas where you can lose energy is by having clogged up filters and vents. If you do not change out your filter regularly it could be causing the HVAC system to work harder than it has to.You also may have your vents covered up as well. That would be causing your air to not get to the place you want it to. Make sure all your vents are free of debris or furniture on them and that they are blowing properly. If you notice that there are covered vents and grates, uncover them for better air flow in particular areas.

Do I need an energy audit?
There are a few ways to tell if you need an energy audit performed on your home. If you have a home that is over 50 years old , you want to consider an audit. If you’re noticing a rise in your electric bills over the months, it’s time for the audit. By having an audit you can find those places that are literally draining the money out of your pockets. Another reason to consider having an energy audit is because of the drafts you may notice in your home. If you also notice that no matter how long your heat may be on for, the home is still chilly, it’s time for an audit. Having a professional audit done on your home can save you money and lost energy. By taking the time to have a thorough inspection, you can find those problem areas that are keeping your home from being the most comfortable it can be. Take the time to inspect your home or have someone do it so you can make sure your home is energy efficient. You’ll be able to save money on your power bill each month and keep your home at the desired temperatures without putting a strain on your system.

Don’t keep throwing money out of your windows, door, and attic. Be sure to call your certified HVAC technician today to find out more about an energy audit on your home. You’ll be glad you did when you beat the heat and cold this year with an efficient system that doesn’t drain your wallet.