Energy Audits

What is an Energy Audit?

An Energy Audit is a comprehensive evaluation of your home or small building using specialized equipment, the evaluation is then used to develop a custom plan to improve the energy efficiency and comfort of your home while reducing  energy costs.

 

How is it completed?

We begin with a thorough visual inspection of the interior and exterior of the home including the attic, basement and crawl spaces, followed by an accurate measurement of the interior volume.  Depending on the construction of the home we will then use a blower door to create a vacuum in the home.  We will then once again inspect the exterior walls and ceilings using a smoke pencil and will scan all of the surfaces with an infrared camera to find areas of air and thermal leakage.  Because the recommendations will include specific instructions on reducing air infiltration we will also conduct a thorough safety inspection of your gas burning appliances.

 

What type of recommendations will you make?

Recommendations will be specific to our findings for your home but may include items such as caulking areas to reduce air leakage, adding insulation in attics and walls, and re-sealing or replacing windows and doors.  Our recommendations will have a strong emphasis on the “low hanging fruit” where small expenditures can have an immediate effect on comfort and a short term payback with reduced energy consumption.

 

Who completes the improvements?

Our report will contain specific recommendations for improvements, if you choose to proceed with any of these recommendations you may use any contractor of your choice.  We would be happy to prepare a proposal to complete these items for you, or if you prefer to complete any of these improvements yourself, we would be happy to provide guidance along the way.

 

What is the cost?

The cost of an Energy Audit for most homes is $399, homes that are over 3500 square feet and those that contain multiple heating and cooling systems are slightly more.  DTE natural gas customers are currently eligible for a $75 rebate upon completion of a qualified Energy Audit.