Energy Audits
An individual that is concerned about his or her home’s carbon footprint or energy usage can choose to have an energy audit conducted. A home energy audit is frequently the first step towards making a home more efficient. The audit will help the homeowner assess how much energy the home is using and then make suggestions as to how this can be reduced. Reducing energy usage reduces greenhouse gas emissions and reduce the amount of money a home needs each month for energy bills.
Anyone that wishes to have an energy audit performed can do it alone or have a professional energy auditor perform a more thorough audit.
When a homeowner is interested in getting very specific recommendations on how to improve the efficiency of a home, a professional home energy auditor is the way to go. These professionals are able to use a variety of equipment and techniques to determine the energy efficiency of a home.
Extremely thorough audits will use blower doors. These doors measure the extent of leakage in the building envelope. Infrared cameras can also be used to reveal hard-to-detect areas of air infiltration and missing insulation.
Many of the utility companies will have free or reduced-cost energy audits available for customers. If this option is not available, it is most likely an option to hire a certified Home Energy Rater to evaluate a home’s energy efficiency.
Contact an Austin Real Estate Agent
To learn more about energy saving options and green homes in Austin, contact the Austin real estate agents of The Carvajal Group at 512-419-7770.
