Energy Evaluation

Performing a home energy evaluation helps you determine the problem areas that are causing loss of energy and money. You can call in a professional to do a full energy audit or conduct a more basic, preliminary energy assessment yourself. Let’s take a look at both options.

DIY Energy Evaluation

A simple walkthrough can help you spot and fix many problems. Here’s what you should do:

• Locate and seal air leaks: Start by listing all the possible areas where air leaks can occur, such as where building materials meet, pipe and wire penetrations, foundation seals, electrical outlets, doors, windows, attic hatches and fireplace dampers. Next, visually inspect these areas for cracks, gaps or holes. Seal any trouble spots with the appropriate materials such as caulk and weather stripping.
• Inspect insulation: Check your attic hatch, attic floor, basement, water heater, pipes and ducts, and ensure they have the right amount of insulation.
• Check lighting: Examine all the light bulbs in your home. Replace those that are inefficient with more energy-efficient types such as LEDs and CFLs.
• Inspect HVAC equipment: Check your air filters and replace them if they’re clogged. If your system is over 15 years old or is in poor operating condition, consider replacing it with a newer, more efficient system.

Professional Energy Evaluation

A professional home energy evaluation is more thorough than a DIY evaluation. It’s performed by a professional HVAC technician. The professional will examine all your rooms and perform several tests such as combustion analysis, blower door test, and thermographic scans. Some of the tools the inspector will use to check the energy consumption in your home include an infrared camera, telescoping ladder, tape measure, and moisture meter.

Your input will also be required during a professional evaluation. Make sure you have a list of all existing problems and copies of your energy bills. This information will help the technician know what to look for during the audit.

A home energy evaluation will help you save energy and prevent expensive repairs in the future. For more information, contact Stack Heating & Cooling. We’ve served Northeast Ohio for nearly 40 years.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Cleveland, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

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