Do you think your A/C isn’t properly cooling or that your heater could be doing a better job? If so, you might need to perform a home energy checkup.

A home energy checkup helps you figure out where your home is losing energy. When you lose energy, you lose money. A professional technician, often called an energy auditor, can give your home a thorough walk-through where they look for leaks, examine insulation, inspect the furnace and duct-work, perform a blower door test, and more to help you save on your heating and cooling bills.

Before calling for an expert, you can also check the insulation in your attic, exterior and basement walls, ceilings, floors and crawl spaces. Then check for air leaks around your walls, ceilings, windows, doors, light and plumbing fixtures, switches, electrical outlets and open fireplace dampers. Explore lighting options such as sensors, dimmers, or timers in order to reduce electricity use. If you still feel like there might be something wrong, look for professional help.

There are some things you should take care of before the energy auditor visits your house. Make a list of any existing problems, such as condensation on windows and uncomfortable or drafty rooms. Have copies of your past energy bills. Auditors use this information to establish what to focus on when they examine your property. The auditor first examines the outside of the home to determine the size of the house and its features, and then will analyze your behavior and reported problems.

A professional energy auditor uses special equipment to find air leaks, areas lacking insulation, or malfunctioning equipment. If it’s not a tight fit, then you are losing energy and money. The auditor will also analyze how well your home’s energy systems work together and compare that analysis to your utility bills. After gathering information about your home, the auditor will recommend cost-effective energy improvements that enhance comfort and safety.

Upgrading your home can have a positive impact on your energy consumption, which means saving you money. You can save between 5 – 30% on your energy bill by making upgrades following a home energy assessment.

Source: United States Department of Energy