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Preparing
for an Energy Audit
Before
the energy auditor visits your house, make a list of any existing
problems such as condensation and uncomfortable or drafty rooms.
Have copies or a summary of the home's yearly energy bills.
Auditors can use this information to compare energy losses and
asses cost-effectiveness of applicable upgrades.
Before
the Audit:
-
No
wood burning fires for 48 hours prior to an audit. Clean ashes from fireplaces.
- Close
and latch all exterior windows and doors for building shell
testing.
- Have 12 - 24 months of utility bills (gas and electric) handy.
The
audit usually takes 2-4 hours. Energy
HERS Ratings usually take an additional 2-4 hours and might
be broken into 3 or 4 separate inspections for builders.

The
auditor also will analyze the residents' behavior (to name a
few):
-
Is
anyone home during working hours?
-
What
is the average thermostat setting for summer and winter?
-
How
many people live here?
-
Is
every room in use?
Your
answers may help uncover some simple ways to reduce your household's
energy consumption. Walk through your home with the auditors as
they work, and ask questions. They may use equipment to detect
sources of energy loss, such as blower doors, infrared cameras,
furnace efficiency meters, and surface thermometers.
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