Across the world, energy prices are rising. And St. Louis, Missouri is no exception. The average US household now spends an average of $117.46 on electricity and don’t expect that to drop any time soon.
So what can you do to save on energy and reduce your bills? One great idea is to get a home energy assessment. This will help you to determine how you’re using your energy so that you can make changes to lower those bills.
Let’s dive into exactly why you need an energy assessment.
What Is a Home Energy Assessment?
A home energy assessment or audit looks at the current energy consumption of your home. The assessor then suggests ways that you could make it more energy-efficient. The auditor is trained to assess where your home is leaking energy the most. They can propose changes you can make that will help you to save energy.
The assessment can take a few hours to complete, depending on the size of your home and the heating and cooling systems you have in place. The goal is to identify leaks and also review the efficiency of the systems you have in place.
Identifying Systems to be Replaced
Older HVAC systems and furnaces were not always designed with energy efficiency in mind. However, as time has gone on and we all try to do our part to combat climate change, newer and more efficient systems have been developed.
The energy auditor will take a look at your system and assess how efficiently it performs. He or she will also make recommendations about newer, more efficient systems. They’ll help you to see how much more efficient they are and how much money you could save.
Identifying Leaks
You may think that your home is sealed up tighter than a
Most of our homes are full of gaps where cooled or heated air can escape. That puts a lot of strain on your HVAC systems. Around one-third of the heat lost in American homes goes straight out the window.
Some of it is lost through the glass. But a lot also goes out the window frames and the gaps around doors.
You might have heard of the dollar bill test. Shut a window or door with a dollar bill in it. If you can pull it through, you’ve got a leak that’s you need to plug.
But not all leaks are so easy to detect.
A professional energy assessor creates a low-pressure system in the house. This reveals all the leaks – not just the obvious ones. Schedule an assessment from a great company and they’ll let you put the cost of the assessment toward any resulting work.
Ductwork Inspection
Another important area to examine is ductwork. People often focus on the furnace and air conditioner, forgetting the ductwork is just as important. If the ductwork is dirty, leaking, or poorly insulated it’ll be reflected in your energy cost each month.
The assessor will look at the seams, joints, and boot connections to isolate any parts that are allowing cooled or heated air to escape. They’ll let you know how to rectify the problem and save on your home energy bills.
Why Is an Energy Assessment a Worthwhile Investment?
There are several reasons why an energy assessment makes sense. This is true both for homeowners and business owners. When you consider that you can get the cost refunded when you use the same company to carry out the repair work, it’s a no-brainer.
Save on Energy
The main reason most people get a home energy assessment is to save on their energy bills.
Many of the fixes that your assessor will recommend are simple. A little caulking here and spackle there can reduce the amount of energy loss significantly. Cleaning and repairing your ductwork is not very expensive but could make a big difference to the efficiency of your HVAC system.
Extend the Life of Equipment
A well-maintained HVAC system will last longer and work more efficiently than one that is rarely serviced. Plus, it will improve the resale value of your house if you can show you’ve got an energy-efficient home.
Breathe Fresh Air
When your HVAC system is not running efficiently, the air you breathe will not be as fresh as it should be.
The leaks don’t just let air out. Dirty, unfiltered air can get in and contaminate the filtered air that is being pumped around your house.
While conducting your home energy assessment, the assessor may find that the filters and ductwork are clogged. Removing any built-up dust and dirt can help you to breathe fresh, filtered air. This is also better for your health and may reduce allergies and respiratory issues.
Regulate the Temperature
St Louis, MO enjoys warm summers and cold winters. That’s great when you’re out having fun. But when you’re cooped up inside working or just relaxing in your own home, you want a moderate temperature and low humidity.
Having a home energy assessment and following it up with the fixes mentioned can give you just that. You’ll no longer be letting hot or cold air in from outside. Plus all that treated air you’ve paid for won’t be flowing out the windows and doors.
The result will be a much better regulated indoor temperature.
Avoid Mold
When there is too much moisture in the air, mold, and mildew can thrive. They’re not only bad to breathe in but can damage the fabric of your home. You can keep your home clean and safe by plugging those gaps and getting your ductwork in good shape.
Now’s the Time for a Home Energy Assessment
A home energy assessment is essential for anyone who wants to make efficient use of energy. You can save on your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint.
At Anthon’s Air Conditioning & Heating/Energy Experts, our NATE-certified technicians are ready to assess your home. They can help you make smart decisions to make your home more energy-efficient and reduce your energy bills.
To schedule an assessment, call us at 314-339-3941 or make an appointment online today!
