What Is An Energy Audit & Is It Worth It?

An energy audit is performed by a qualified independent energy consultant and is a type of inspection. The inspection occurs on different electrical appliances and an overall look at the person’s energy and electricity consumption. With the person’s energy usage being looked at, the main systems and alike inspected are:

• The overall energy usage, including what is used, how much and at what time
• Checking the energy tariffs to ensure that they are not overcharged
• Determine if any energy wastage is occurring and how to fix this
• Look at the options that can be taken to reduce energy usage and costs
• Lighting systems
• Ventilation fans, including supply and exhaust fans
• Air conditioner
• Hot water system
• Water pumps
• Pool system
• Solar panels and solar power system
• Insulation condition

The main benefits that come with performing an energy audit are:

Improve Energy Efficiency

The electrician performing the audit will be able to look at how the energy is being used and determine what can be done to make the place more energy efficient. This can mean adding more appliances that have a higher energy efficiency rating to installing solar panels. The guidance on what can be done to make the home more energy efficient will be a major benefit of the audit. 

Find Leaks and Improve Insulation 

To help with energy efficiency, finding any air leaks, such as gaps within the walls or ceiling, where air escapes out of the home will help. Determining if the insulation should be replaced or installed to help keep heat in the home will assist as well. 

Improve Heating and Cooling

The heating and cooling elements of the place will be looked at to see ways that energy usage can be lowered. The hot water system, air conditioning system, fans, thermostat and other temperature control systems are inspected. If they are not working correctly or efficiently then they will be advised to be repaired or replaced with newer and more efficient systems to help reduce energy usage.

Lower Energy Costs

Finding ways to be more energy efficient will ultimately lower the energy costs of the area. Installing more energy efficient systems, improving certain habits and resolving any problems with energy systems will in the long term save money. At the beginning of becoming more energy aware it will be more expensive, such as installing higher energy rating appliances and solar panels, but in the long term the savings are extremely high. 

Add Value to Home

With all the added features, newer appliances and upgraded systems included in the home the overall value of it increases. Energy efficient features, such as added insulation, improved hot water system, solar panels and newer appliances raise the value of the property. Even if selling the home is not considered the overall valve of the place does increase with these additions. 

Environmental Benefits

Lower energy usage saves money but also the impact on the environment. Using solar powered systems and more energy efficient appliances means that less energy is used and this helps the environment as well.