Energy Inspection Audit
Whether you are a home owner or renter, it is of utmost importance to have an energy audit and eco evaluation by a professional inspector conducted on your home. The cost for a complete audit is around $300. Most Provinces, if not all, have an energy save program that will cover all or most of that cost. Contact your electricity supplier and gas supplier. Often they will conduct an audit for free. They want to save energy too.
Home Energy Audit
Having an audit done on your home makes it easier to obtain grants from federal and provincial governments to help defray the costs of any upgrades needed to bring your home to efficiency.
If you are planning any renovations in the near future it is best to have the advise of a licensed inspector before applying for permits or hiring a contractor. You will have the peace of mind knowing before hand what can be done, what needs improvement and what will add to energy efficiency in your home.
If your home is over 10 years old consider having a full inspection in conjunction with your energy audit.
A full Home Inspection should cover:
- Exterior: Type and condition of siding. Eaves and soffits. Eaves troughs and downspouts. Water pooling areas. Window and door casings. Exposed foundations for condition and water tightness. Exterior woodwork, including transition strips, porches and decks, posts and stairs. Chimney and flue. Exterior power outlets. Hose bibs. Foliage encroachment.
- Garage: Door efficiency. Air flow. Air transfer to house. Heat loss.
- Basement and Crawl Space; Basement Walls and Insulation. Basement floors. Basement Windows and Doors. Moisture and mold check.
Furnace Efficiency. Filters. Leaks in Air Ducts. Wrapping of Air Ducts. Hot Water Heater Efficiency. Hot water pipe wrapping. Washer/Dryer hook-ups and exhaust. - Attic and Roof; Amount of insulation in attic, type and efficiency of insulation, air flow in attic, condition of roofing materials and expected life. Moisture and mold check.
- Kitchen: Appliance efficiency. Cabinet and counter top integrity. Caulking. Taps and sinks.
- Bathrooms: Tub and tub surround (tiles). Caulking. mold. Sinks and taps. Toilet type and condition. Water use. Exhaust fan.
- House in General: Wall heat loss. Ceiling heat loss. Floor heat loss. Window heat loss. Window caulking. Exit door heat loss. Door caulking/seal. Weather stripping. Electrical outlets. Heaters and/or Heat vents. Air conditioner. Exhaust fans. Stairs integrity. Electric panel. Fireplace and flue, damper.
An energy audit will also look for electronic equipment and use of surge protection. An energy audit may also take into consideration lifestyle and family members.
Tell us: Have you had an energy audit for your home. Which Province? Are you satisfied with the results?