Energy Audits and Ratings
Do you need an Audit or a Rating?
Existing home owners generally prefer an BPI 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 HERS 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 such as a solar PV site survey, indoor air quality test, power cost meter analysis, and calibrated duct leakage test to supplement your energy audit. If you are interested in any of the optional tests, contact us for more information and pricing.
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.
