South Bay Energy Reviews: What to Expect From An Energy Audit

An energy audit looks into a building’s energy use. An audit is an excellent method of improving the comfort level and energy usage ratio of a home. An energy audit can pinpoint specific areas where a home’s energy use is wasted, and which parts should be improved to help reduce waste. What does a home energy audit include?

1) Structural features of the house. A home energy audit typically inspects attics, ceilings, interior and exterior walls, openings (including doors, windows, and skylights), basements, concrete slabs, and crawl spaces. The auditor will check the structural integrity of each structural feature to ensure it is safe to use, and will seek out structural damage through which heat could leak out.

2) Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems (HVAC). The HVAC system is typically the single largest consumer of energy at home as it is in use almost 24/7. An energy auditor will check for leaks in the ducts by blasting air through them. The exhaust fans will also be screened for mechanical issues that could affect their performance.

3) Appliances. Appliances such as your refrigerator, washing machine, dryer, and dishwasher all use energy. Part of an energy audit is seeking out items which waste electricity. For example, because the refrigerator door doesn’t close all the way, it is letting hot air inside. This makes the refrigerator motor work harder to maintain a constant temperature and contributes to more heat indoors. Another part of an appliance audit is checking for carbon monoxide emissions that could potentially be fatal to you and your family.

Once the energy audit is through, you will receive a list of recommended actions. These items are not just meant to minimize your energy use and carbon footprint; in the case of the carbon monoxide testing, they could also save lives.