Home Energy Audits: Saving Money and Improving Comfort
Across the United States, a growing movement is gaining momentum: #getanenergyaudit. Homeowners, home buyers, and realtors increasingly recognize the importance of understanding that homes require evaluation not just for their aesthetic appeal but for what lies beneath the surface. This article will explore why you should get a home energy audit immediately. Here is a recent story from one of our clients.
A First-Hand Account of How an Energy Audit Solved a Client’s Comfort Issues
This past spring, Doug and April Eldridge bought their first home in Lake Oswego, Oregon. The previous owner remodeled the house, and it looks stunning! New quartz countertops, all new stainless steel appliances, new windows, and the exterior was freshly painted with a cool new, trendy, subtle grey, brownish paint. The upstairs was converted from an attic to 2 bedrooms and a bathroom. They paid a premium for it, and they were feeling lucky.
Then came the dog days of summer. At first, they tried adjusting the thermostat on the few-year-old ducted heat pump system to cool the hot and steamy upper level where they slept, but it just wouldn’t cool down. The lower level was 74 degrees, and the upper was humid and closer to 80 degrees. And to make matters worse, their electric bill was over $400 a month. They got through the summer heat and felt some relief. Fall came, and they were more comfortable again, forgetting all about the unbearable heat. But then, winter rolled around, and now they were trying to figure out why they were so cold upstairs. They could feel drafts coming from the two doors in their side attics where they stored luggage, old computer boxes, and other miscellaneous items. Lisa bought a fancy space heater that worked, but their electric bill skyrocketed. They also noticed icicles were forming on the west side of the house. “It will drip all day long and then stop at night, April told Doug, “It’s just weird?!” They also started to see mold on the inside of their windows.
What are they to do? Can an HVAC contractor help? How about calling an Insulation company? But who do you call first? If you want to read what happened to the Smiths, you can find the answer at NWECB.com/homeownerstruestories.
The Case for a Home Energy Audit
The U.S. Department of Energy’s (US DOE) Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) addresses this need, providing weatherization services to approximately 35,000 homes annually through DOE funds. This underscores the significant demand for enhanced evaluation and weatherization efforts in residential spaces. With constant media attention focused on climate change and a shared desire for homes that are not only visually pleasing but also comfortable, durable, and conducive to good health, the urgency of this movement becomes increasingly apparent. This article will explore why you should get a home energy audit sooner rather than later.
Identify Energy Inefficiencies
About 30% of energy is squandered in a typical home. One of the primary reasons to get a home energy audit is to pinpoint areas in your home where energy is wasted. Auditors use specialized equipment to detect inefficiencies such as leaks, insulation gaps, and inefficient appliances. By identifying these issues, you can take targeted actions to improve your home's energy efficiency, significantly reducing energy bills.
Save Money on Energy Bills
According to US DOE, the average American spends about $200-400 annually on wasted energy, but a home energy audit can lead to substantial cost savings over time. After identifying inefficiencies, you'll receive recommendations for the next steps toward improvement. Implementing these improvements can reduce energy consumption, lower utility bills, and minimize your home’s carbon footprint. In time, the money saved on utility bills can cover the cost of the audit and improvements made.
Increase Home Durability and Property Value
Investing in energy-efficient upgrades benefits your current living situation and can increase your property's resale value. Homebuyers are increasingly looking for energy-efficient homes that offer long-term savings on energy bills. A home energy audit report can serve as a valuable selling point when you decide to put your house on the market.
Reduce Environmental Impact
Reducing energy consumption isn't just about saving money; it's also about reducing your carbon footprint. By adopting energy-efficient practices, you contribute significantly to environmental conservation. A home energy audit helps you understand your home's environmental impact and provides recommendations for reducing it. Less energy will contribute to a more sustainable future by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Enhance Home Comfort
Energy audits also focus on improving your home's overall comfort. Leaky windows, inadequate insulation, or an inefficient HVAC system can result in temperature fluctuations and discomfort. By addressing these issues, you'll enjoy a more comfortable living environment with consistent temperatures and better indoor air quality.
Access to Incentives and Rebates
Many states now offer incentives and rebates for homeowners who invest in energy-efficient upgrades. Home energy improvement tax credits range from $1,100 to $3,200 annually. For example, you can get up to $2,000 for switching to a heat pump and $1,200 for insulation upgrades for the year. These incentives can offset the cost of improvements, making it even more financially attractive to get a home energy audit and follow through with recommended upgrades.
Peace of Mind
Knowing that your home is operating at peak efficiency provides peace of mind. You won't have to worry about energy waste or surprise spikes in your utility bills. Instead, you can relax knowing you've taken proactive steps to optimize your home's energy performance.
Contact Northwest Energy Collaborative today for personalized solutions to improve your home's energy efficiency and comfort. #getanenergyaudit.
Phone: (503) 567-5551
Email: Info@NWEnergyCollaborative.com
Website: NWEnergyCollaborative.com
