Home Energy Audit FAQ
1. What is a blower door test?
A blower door test locates and measures the amount of air infiltration entering the home. A large fan is installed on an exterior door of the house and depressurizes the space. Exterior air through atmospheric pressure is then naturally forcing back into the house through “leaky” passageways. Using “artificial smoke”, touch, or infrared camera technology, places of air entry are revealed.
2. How long does the home energy audit take, and should I be at home?
Two to three hours. Although it is not necessary for you to be present for the on-site process, it is encouraged. Full access will be needed to basements, attics, crawl spaces, and all other areas.
3. Should I prepare the house in any way prior to the inspecting?
During this time, it is helpful if you prepare the home for the tests by closing all windows and storm-windows and making all attic and crawlspace hatches accessible. If you have ash in your fireplace it needs to be cleaned out.
4. How much does Home Energy Diagnostics charge for an energy audit?
An average of $375, depending on the size of the house. This includes testing and a detailed report with recommendations on improvements, and cost analysis. which arrives by email approximately a week after testing.
5. Do you do the work that is recommended?
Yes, we GC the installation of air sealing, insulation, boilers, furnaces, AC systems, and water heaters.
6. How soon can I expect a payback for my investment?
After we perform an audit, we enter all of our findings and data from your home into “Homecheck” software. Based on our recommendations for improving a home’s performance, we will list the cost to do a particular item and the software will calculate the amount of time that it would pay for itself in terms of energy savings.
7. Can I finance this work through the any state or federal agency, and are their tax credits given?
Yes, there are several ways to get aid. Please visit homeowners link on www energyfinancesolutions.com to learn more.
8. How does infrared camera work?
An infrared camera is a non-contact device that detects infrared energy (heat) and converts it into an electronic signal, which is then processed to produce a thermal image on a video monitor.
9. What is exfiltration and infiltration?
Exfiltration is the movement of air from inside the house to the outside. this occurs primarily in the attic where air is being replaced by air infiltrating the house from the basement. This dynamic is known as the stack effect.
10. Why test for carbon monoxide (CO)?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly, odorless, colorless byproduct of incomplete combustion. Gas-fired water heaters, furnaces, stoves, fireplaces, and other combustion appliances produce carbon monoxide. Due to efficiency limitations, certain CO levels are expected and should be properly vented. As part of the energy audit, carbon monoxide levels are checked at several locations in the home. High level readings are noted in the report and could be an indication of backdrafting, improper burner adjustment, cracked heat exchangers, or other issues.