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Home Energy Audit

Use this do-it-yourself Home Energy Audit to find ways to save. Check each area of your home to make sure you're using energy efficiently. Every nook and cranny holds potential inefficiencies, so it pays to be thorough!

Insulation & Ductwork

Attic

  • Minimum R-value of 38 for insulation (approximately 12 inches of blown-in cellulose or 18 inches of clown-in fiberglass)
  • Insulation spread evenly
  • Insulation in good condition
  • Attic vents are unblocked by insulation
  • Attic access doors properly insulated and sealed

Walls & Floors

  • Minimum R-value of 10 for perimeter walls (approximately 2 inches of foam board insulation)
  • Minimum R-value of 25 for under-floor insulation (approximately 5.5 inches of fiberglass batt insulation)

Basement/Crawlspace

  • Ductwork sealed and insulated
  • Hot water pipes insulated

Heating & Cooling

  • Air supply and return vents are unblocked by furniture
  • Air handler filters are clean
  • HVAC system has had annual maintenance check-up
  • Programmable thermostat installed and programmed: 78º or higher in the summer, 68º or lower in the winter

Appliances & Lighting

  • Appliances are ENERGY STAR qualified
  • Inactive battery chargers, electronics, and appliances unplugged
  • Refrigerator and freezer condenser coils clean
  • Refrigerator door gasket tight
  • Dishwasher energy-saving feature turned on
  • Washing machine loads run with cold water when possible
  • Line dry laundry when possible
  • Dryer duct clean

Lighting

  • Use LEDs with the ENERGY STAR label
  • Outdoor lighting automatically triggered by motion or photosensor

Air Infiltration

Windows & Doors

  • Windows close and lock properly
  • Window gaskets in good condition
  • Window trim sealed with caulk
  • Doors properly weather stripped
  • Doors close and latch properly

Exterior Penetrations

  • Plumbing and electrical entrances sealed:
    • Under sinks
    • Dryer vents
    • TV and phone line entrances
  • Gaskets behind outlets and light switches
  • Fireplace damper sealed tightly

Water Heating

  • Thermostat set to 120º F
  • Water heater insulated if in unconditioned space
  • Low flow showerheads, with flow rate of 2.25 gallons per minute (gpm) or less, and faucet aerators, with flow rate of 2.2 gpm or less, installed
  • Pipes insulated
  • No dripping or leaking faucets

Well Pump

  • Operating properly
  • Good pressure
  • No leaks