Time for your Energy Audit
By William Hanover
Save up 50% on your bill and breathe better
If you are just now recovering from the sobering energy bills of this record summer it may be time to reevaluate you home’s energy efficiency. It may according to Durable Energy consultant Jim Kuchenbrod save you “up to 50% on you energy bill, but also drastically improve the air you and your family breathe.” As the winter months approach now may be the time to do your home assessment prior to cranking up the heater or heading out back to split some firewood to
keep your house warm during the holidays.
When designing or remodeling your home you should keep in mind the type of doors and windows and even the framing techniques that will help save you money in the long run.
An energy assessment will pinpoint the main areas where your house is losing energy. While you may want to try yourself a professional energy auditor can carry out a more thorough evaluation. When looking at your water tank you may want to convert to a solar powered heater. A tank that is warm to the touch needs additional insulation. A drain water recovery system can recapture the hot water from your sink, tubs or dishwasher. When looking at the doors and windows a calibrated blower door and an infrared camera equipment are necessary to detect the infiltration, insufficient or missing insulation. This equipment will also find your leaky inefficient doors and windows.
When creating the airtight efficient home, make sure the ventilation controls the amount of moisture that is in your home. By controlling the air currents throughout the house caused by leaks or cracks you can dramatically affect the overall household air quality. Last but not least is the fact that the less heat flow in your house the cheaper it is to cool or heat your home. Heat flow directly to the attics, garages, and the outdoors can be avoided with proper insulation. In the summer the proper insulation keeps the hot air from the interior of the house. Home Depot has an insulation calculator on their website but for most of us the best way is to have an experienced consultant come look at the whole picture and explain the necessary means to a more energy efficient home.
There are many types of insulation and places where it is applicable other than just in the attic. While windows and doors have some effect on your energy bills, generally the home is well served by a thorough insulation review.