Energy Audits & Ratings
Do you need an Audit or a Rating?
Existing home owners generally prefer an Energy Audit. The energy audit is a relatively inexpensive way for a homeowner to identify a prioritized list of energy improvements, building defects, health and safety concerns, and behavioral ways to be “green.” It is a less intense process than an energy rating, which is used for complicated financing like energy efficient mortgages or new construction.
Builders would need an Energy Rating. The Energy rating goes through a standard Quality Control check with local RESNET and HERS providers to ensure accuracy across local building standards. The Energy Rating will return a HERS score (from 0-200) based on home dimensions and/or blueprints. Modeling characteristics are verified by blower door and IR thermography during construction so you can deliver an EnergyStar rated home.
Realtors, loan officers, individual home buyers, and some home sellers would all likely be interested in an Energy Rating over an Energy Audit, although both could apply. Please call or contact us for more information.
- If you know your client will apply for tax credits, energy efficient mortgages, or any home owners who desire an energy improvement mortgage, you’ll need a certified Energy Rating.
- However, many existing home sales are looking towards an Energy Audit because it’s cheaper and energy upgrades could reduce a home’s energy costs by $100′s or $1000′s each year.
- Who would have thought that by reducing your impact on our environment, saving money on your bills, adding value to your home, and making your living spaces more comfortable today could also help your home sell faster in a tough market?
Optional Home Energy Tests
We offer additional advanced home energy tests to supplement your energy audit. If you are interested in any of the tests below, contact us for more information and pricing.
- Solar PV Site Survey: Using professional solar GPS instrumentation, we conduct a feasibility study, determine array size, and calculate return on investment (ROI).
- Indoor Air Quality Test: We provide a radon test kit, which uses a laboratory-grade particulate counter to analyze indoor air pollutants. Hygrometers measure indoor moisture loads.
- Power Cost Meter Analysis: We use power cost/kilowatt meters to measure current draws from accessible household lighting, appliances, and electronics. This test helps you reduce energy consumption by managing chores, overextended appliances and electronic usage.
- Calibrated Duct Leakage Test: We tape your duct system and perform duct leakage tests to calculate volume and flow totals and convert them to energy loss. On new homes, we use a party fogger to identify leaks that need sealing.
All EDGE Energy audits and surveys adhere to both House Energy Rating System (HERS) Chapter 7 and Building Performance Institute (BPI) Building Analyst/Envelope standards. HERS and/or BPI standards may be REQUIRED in your area to redeem rebates, tax credits, or incentives for energy improvements or testing. See our certifications and licenses page for details.
