Who will conduct the Home Energy Assessment?
Elite AEW’s team of Building Performance Institute (BPI) Certified experts will conduct a thorough assessment of your home’s energy usage and efficiency. You will be notified in advance of who will be visiting your home and you can learn more about them here.
What are the steps in a Home Performance Energy Assessment?
- Introduction and Pre-Audit Discussion – the assessor will start by introducing themselves and explaining the audit process. They may ask you about any specific concerns or problem areas you’ve noticed in your home.
- Appliance and Lighting Check – the assessor will inspect your appliances and lighting to identify any outdated or inefficient models that could be upgraded to more energy-efficient options.
- Walkthrough and Visual Inspection – the assessor will conduct a visual inspection of your entire home, both inside and outside. This includes checking for drafts, insulation levels, the condition of windows and doors, and the overall state of your heating, cooling, and ventilation systems.
- Thermal Imaging – the assessor will use thermal imaging cameras to detect temperature variations and locate areas of heat loss or air infiltration.
- Insulation Inspection – the assessor will inspect the insulation levels in your attic, walls, and floors to determine if they meet recommended standards.
- Heating and Cooling System Assessment – the assessor will examine your heating and cooling systems, including the furnace, air conditioner, and ductwork, which will be inspected for efficiency, condition, and any issues that may affect performance.
- Air Duct Inspection – the assessor will check your ductwork for leaks, which can lead to energy waste and reduced system efficiency.
- Data Collection – throughout the assessment, the auditor will collect data on various aspects of your home’s energy usage, insulation levels, and equipment specifications.
- Blower Door Test – the assessor will complete a blower door test is conducted which involves sealing off one exterior door and using a special fan to depressurize or pressurize your home. This test helps identify air leaks and drafts.
- Utility Bill Review – the assessor will review your utility bills to get a better understanding of your energy consumption patterns. Elite AEW is partnered with all the Major Utilities in PA and Maryland and can help with potential Rebates and Federal Tax Incentives.
- Interview and Discussion – the assessor may ask you questions about your energy usage habits and any comfort issues you’ve experienced in your home.
How long does the energy assessment take?
The duration of an energy assessment can vary depending on the size and complexity of your home. On average, it will take 90 minutes to complete.
What is included in the final report?
Once the assessment is completed, the Elite AEW assessor will discuss the final home performance and energy assessment findings with you. It will show your home’s energy usage across its heating, cooling, electrical, and hot water systems to determine your energy score and potential to save energy, and money and increase comfort. Additionally, it will include recommendations on ways to increase your home’s energy usage through insulation, air sealing, HVAC upgrades, and other energy-saving methods.
Do I have to complete all the home repairs the assessor recommends?
No, the assessor will discuss your budget and assist you in prioritizing the recommendations based on urgency and potential savings. Their recommendations can be valuable in helping you make an informed decision about which energy-efficient upgrades are good for your home. You choose which upgrades are best for you, your home, and your budget.
Are there incentives and rebates available to assist with the cost of repairs?
Yes! The best part is that many rebates and incentives are available through your utility company to possibly offset the cost. To qualify for the incentives, however, you must use an approved contractor like Elite AEW to complete the work. Our assessors will help you qualify for the incentives.
How do I know if the repairs reduced my energy use?
When you choose to have Elite AEW complete your energy-saving upgrades, you will receive a Test Out to validate that our work achieved the desired results making your home more energy efficient. This information is shared with the participating utility to ensure the work performed meets the BPI standards and goals. All work performed by Elite AEW through a Utility partner is subject to a third-party QCI (Quality Control Inspection) which adds an additional level of confidence to you that the job is completed to the highest standards.
Remember that the goal of a home energy assessment is to help you identify opportunities to reduce energy consumption, lower utility bills, and improve home comfort.
