Home Energy Audit

Air leaks account for 25-40% of heating and cooling energy loss. Check common leak points: windows, doors, electrical outlets, plumbing penetrations, and attic access.

1. On a windy day, hold a lit incense stick near windows, doors, outlets, and light switches — smoke wavering indicates air leak

2. Check weatherstripping on all exterior doors — should seal tightly all around

3. Check window caulking — no gaps between frame and wall

4. Feel around electrical outlets and switches on exterior walls — air leaks common here

5. Check attic access hatch/door — should be insulated and weatherstripped

6. Inspect rim joist area in basement (where framing meets foundation) — major leak point

7. Check plumbing and wiring penetrations through exterior walls

8. Check fireplace damper — should close tightly when not in use

- Drafty windows and doors (25-30% of heating loss)

- Unsealed attic hatch (warm air rises and escapes)

- Rim joist area not sealed (biggest hidden leak in most homes)

- Outlet and switch covers on exterior walls leak air

- Fireplace damper left open when not in use

- Plumbing penetrations through walls not sealed

Check insulation levels in attic, walls, and basement/crawl space. Compare to recommended R-values for your climate zone.

1. Check attic insulation depth — measure with a ruler (each inch of fiberglass ≈ R-3.2)

2. Compare to recommended R-value for your climate zone (R-38 to R-60 for most US attics)

3. Check for gaps in attic insulation — especially around pipes, ducts, and light fixtures

4. Check basement/crawl space walls — should be insulated (R-10 to R-15)

5. Check for insulation in exterior walls — remove an outlet cover on exterior wall and look with flashlight

6. Check duct insulation — ducts in unconditioned spaces should be insulated (R-6 minimum)

7. Check hot water pipe insulation — first 5 feet from water heater at minimum

- Inadequate attic insulation (most common energy issue — easy fix)

- Gaps in insulation at penetrations and edges

- No insulation in basement or crawl space walls

- Empty wall cavities (no insulation in exterior walls)

- Uninsulated ducts in attic or crawl space

- Insulation compressed or water-damaged (loses R-value)

Check HVAC age, efficiency rating, maintenance status, and duct condition. Older systems may benefit from replacement.

1. Check HVAC age — label on unit shows manufacture date (15+ years consider replacement)

2. Check efficiency rating — SEER for AC (13+ good, 16+ excellent), AFUE for furnace (90%+ good)

3. Check the air filter — should be clean (replace every 1-3 months)

4. Feel all supply registers — should have good airflow

5. Check visible ductwork for leaks — feel for air escaping at joints

6. Check thermostat type — programmable thermostat can save 10-15% on energy bills

7. Verify duct sealing — joints should be sealed with mastic, not just tape

8. Ask about maintenance history — annual tune-ups extend equipment life and maintain efficiency

- Old, inefficient HVAC system (biggest energy expense)

- Dirty filter (reduces efficiency 5-15%)

- Leaky ductwork (loses 20-30% of conditioned air)

- No programmable thermostat

- No regular maintenance (reduces efficiency over time)

- Oversized system (short-cycles, poor dehumidification, higher bills)