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As an energy-conscious consumer, you likely wish that
your heating and cooling systems were already operating at maximum
efficiency.
But because of budget constraints, most homeowners
have to prioritize upgrades that will produce the biggest bangs
for their investment dollars. That's where home energy audits come
in. Such tools enable consumers to pinpoint energy-deficient parts
of their homes.
While certified energy contractors can complete an
audit for you (and some utility companies provide the service for
free), it's easy enough for most homeowners to complete a whole
house audit without help.
"Audits are important because they help you determine where
you're spending the most money on your heating bill so you know where you can
save the most going forward," says Jonathan Shradar, a spokesman for the Department
of Energy. "Most of the time, this is something you can do yourself."
The DOE recommends that homeowners start with thorough
inspections of their homes, making lists of obvious air leaks or
drafts around doors and windows, and wall- or window-mounted air
conditioners. Eliminating those leaks alone can yield a potential
energy savings of 5 percent to 30 percent per year, according to
government data.
Less obvious sources of leaks include fireplace dampers,
attic hatches, switch plates and electrical outlets. It's also wise
to check for indoor air leaks, such as gaps along the baseboards
or edges of the flooring and the junctures of walls and ceilings,
the DOE reports in its "Consumer's Guide to Energy Efficiency and
Renewable Energy."
How to detect drafts
To locate leaks, conduct a depressurization test. This is a lot less complicated
than it sounds. Simply close all exterior doors, windows and fireplace flues,
and turn off all combustion appliances such as gas-burning furnaces and water
heaters. Next, turn on all exhaust fans (in the kitchen and bathrooms) or use
a large window fan to suck the air out of the rooms.
The test increases infiltration through cracks and
leaks, making them easier to detect, according to the DOE's consumer
guide. Use incense sticks to visualize drafts, or wave your damp
hand around. Any drafts will feel cool.
Next, inspect all exterior areas of your home where
two different building materials meet, says DOE. That includes all
corners, where siding and chimneys meet, and where the foundation
meets the bottom of your house.
While
you're at it, seal any cracks or holes in the mortar, foundation or siding and
check the exterior caulking around doors and windows.
Take note, too, of the insulation levels in your attic,
walls, ceilings, floors and crawl spaces. Determine what type of
insulation you have and where, along with its "R-value"
and thickness. The R-value indicates the insulation's resistance
to heat flow. The higher the R-value, the greater the efficiency.
Next
move on to your appliances. Check to be sure the vents on your heating and cooling
units are free of dust and obstructions and your ductwork is sealed and insulated.
Also determine the age of your heating system. Consider replacing
your furnace if it is older than 15 years or if it requires frequent maintenance.
Finally, study your family's lighting needs and use
patterns, paying close attention to high-use areas such as the living
room, kitchen and outside lighting, suggests the DOE. Occupancy
sensors, dimmers and timers can help reduce energy use without impacting
your lifestyle.
Once you've assessed where your home would benefit
most from energy-efficient upgrades, you can formulate a plan based
on cost, the length of time you plan to be in your home and ease
of implementation.
"Depending on your determination and the resources
you have available, you can make many of the upgrades on your list
yourself and be just as energy-efficient as the next guy," says
Shradar.
Back to: "Winterizing
your home"
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