Save Money And Prolong Equipment Life - Energy And HVAC Audits

The two biggest questions we get here at Green Horizon are: What is an energy audit and why do you need one? An energy audit is an evaluation made by a professional using special equipment to determine the energy efficiency of your home and ways to improve it. Implementing energy efficient upgrades will result in a more comfortable home and savings on utilities. An audit also may reveal issues that are affecting the safety and health of you and your family.

 

The home structure evaluated in an audit includes ceilings, floors, walls, crawl and attic spaces, doors, and windows. The R-value or resistance to heat flow is calculated for each of these areas of the home. One primary concern is the amount of leakage or infiltration of air allowed based on the quality of the home "envelope," such as around windows and door weather stripping.

 

Heating and cooling equipment is one of the largest energy consumers in a home, which is why an HVAC audit is another great way to evaluate and improve heating and cooling equipment performance. The benefits of periodic HVAC audits are cheaper utility costs, longer equipment life, and a more comfortable environment.

 

Many homeowners don't realize that HVAC system improvements can lower energy costs by as much as 40% depending on various factors. Periodic maintenance and checkups are important, also, and even something as simple as changing the filter monthly can save money and prolong the life of the heating and cooling equipment.

 

Having a professional service and tune your HVAC equipment periodically is no different that changing the oil in your car. Taking care of the system will improve performance and make it last longer just as clean oil improves the performance in your automobile. Ideal times to have your system checked are in the fall before the colder winter months arrive, and again in the spring in anticipation of the summer heat.

 

While the expense of an audit may seem to be a drawback, it really isn't when you consider the potential savings that exist on utility expenses and by prolonging the life of your equipment so you get more performance for your investment. Energy and HVAC audits offer many benefits, and a wise homeowner realizes the importance of saving money and protecting their investment.