Energy audits are a helpful tool for both residential and commercial property owners. An energy audit is meant to examine your current energy usage and offers advice on how that energy usage can be improved. Improving the energy efficiency in your home or business is important for multiple reasons. An energy-efficient building will result in lower monthly energy costs, a lower carbon footprint, and a more comfortable space!
Will You Review My Energy Bills Before Auditing?
Reviewing recent energy bills before the audit begins will give your auditor a better idea of what your current energy usage looks like. An auditor that doesn’t seem interested in your recent energy bills is not a reliable auditor!
Will You Do a Blower Door Test?
A blower door test is a test done using a fan that mounts to an exterior door of the building. This test allows the energy auditor to check the airtightness of your home. More importantly, it makes it easier for them to pinpoint exactly where the building lacks a good seal. A building with air leaks will struggle to maintain a consistent temperature, leading to higher energy bills. Always confirm a blower door test will be a part of the energy audit before scheduling!
What’s Included in the Final Audit Report?
Your final audit report will be the written documentation of the audit findings and recommendations. Ask your auditor what that report is going to include. A good energy audit report should include a detailed list of what they found, and suggestions to improve the space’s energy efficiency. The format of the report will often depend on the software used to record the audit information and recommendations. Ensure that the report shows the estimated cost to install each energy-saving recommendation and any applicable rebates or discounts, as well as the estimated energy savings that will happen after installation. This information allows you to weigh the cost of installation versus the potential savings and determine what can fit into your budget.
Are You Licensed to Perform Energy Audits?
The Building Performance Institute is the institute that provides training and accreditation for Mass Save energy auditors. Ask your auditor if they’re Building Analysts certified through BPI. Also, all Mass Save auditing companies must have one individual in the company who is BPI Envelope certified. You will then know any installations you decide to make after the audit is complete are going to improve your home. Hiring an auditor who isn’t licensed is a big risk that isn’t worth saving a couple of bucks!
Contact Cape Cod Energy Solutions today to speak with a BPI-certified auditor and installer in your area. Our team can explain exactly what the audit process will look like, and how it can benefit your home. All Mass Save Home Energy Assessments are conducted at No-Cost to eligible primary utility account holders. Let us get you on the schedule for an energy audit before cold winter weather and high heating bills return!
