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Energy Audits
A home energy audit (or survey) evaluates an existing home to determine where and how energy is being lost, what systems are operating inefficiently and what cost-effective improvements can be implemented to enhance occupant comfort, make the home more durable and lower utility costs. (See Benefits of a Home Energy Audit).
RESNET has defined three types of energy assessments for existing homes which range in complexity from a simple but effective walk-through survey to a performance audit using diagnostic equipment and computerized data analysis to a comprehensive home energy rating utilizing the most sophisticated modeling software to produce a home rating score on the HERS Index. These options, listed from least complex to most complex are explained below.
We strongly suggest a Level 2 or 3 whole house audit before contracting for new heating and cooling equipment, alternative heating source, insulation or windows. Single scope contractors understandably want to sell you what they install. Only a Home Performance Contractor (HPC) assesses your house-as-a-system based on principles of building science. This underlying approach is what defines an HPC and separates us from single-scope contractors or even general home remodelers who don’t typically study building science.
Insulation and Thermal Envelope Inspection
A thermal envelope inspection is a visual inspection and does not include the use of diagnostic testing equipment. Its purpose is to assess the general energy performance of an existing home including:
- Building envelope features (windows, doors, insulation, ducts) and age
- Appliance and lighting characteristics
- Comfort complaints
- Air Infiltration Locations
- Moisture issues
- Visible health and safety issues
- Cost estimate to make your home energy efficient and comfortable.
A thermal envelope inspection takes approximately one hour to complete.
Level II Energy Audit - Building Performance Audit
A Building Performance Audit includes all of the inspections provided in the Home Energy Survey and also includes diagnostic testing using specialized equipment such as a blower door, duct leakage tester, combustion analyzer and infrared camera to determine:
* The amount and location of air leaks in the building envelope
* The amount of leakage from HVAC distribution ducts
* The effectiveness of insulation inside walls and ceilings
* Any existing or potential combustion safety issues
Our Home Energy Rater conducts a whole-house evaluation and performs computer software analysis to identify and prioritize proposed treatments for improvement. The detailed report will provide suitable retrofit recommendations and specifications and guide the homeowner to the appropriate, prioritized and cost effective repairs and improvements. A Level II Energy Audit takes approximately two to three hours to complete.
Level III - Comprehensive HERS Rating
A Comprehensive HERS Rating is the most in-depth performance audit of an existing home. It consists of the evaluation, diagnostic testing, cost-effective recommendations and work specifications contained in a Building Performance Audit.
In addition, a Comprehensive HERS Rating includes a computerized simulation analysis utilizing RESNET Accredited Rating Software, REMrate to calculate a rating score on the HERS Index. The report will also contain a cost/benefit analysis for the recommended improvements and expected return on investment. Comprehensive HERS Ratings of existing homes will be required to qualify loan applicants for certain federally sponsored mortgage products. A Level III Comprehensive Energy Audit takes three to four hours to complete.
Energy Audit Benefits
Save Money on Your Energy Bills - Irvin Haddad's RESNET Certified home energy professional is trained to pinpoint the areas of your home where energy is being wasted and used inefficiently. More importantly, your plan of action report report will prioritize cost-effective improvement opportunities that will pay financial dividends every time your utility bill arrives and deliver the comfort you desire from your home.
Increase Your Comfort - When you implement home improvements recommended by Irvin Haddad's RESNET Certified professional, you will literally feel the difference. Air sealing the building shell, sealing leaky air handler ducts, adding insulation, or replacing that old furnace or air conditioner will make your home a more pleasant place to be.
Increase Your Home's Resale Value - For every $1 decrease in annual energy costs, the market value of a home increases by $20, according to a study published in the Appraisal Journal. If you decrease your energy costs by $300 per year, the value of your home increases by $6,000. Our RESNET Certified professional can verify measurable results of the improvements performed.
Improve Your Home's Marketability - With rising fuel costs, home buyers are seriously considering the house's operating expenses. Measures to lower utility bills are valuable home improvements that reap dividends month after month. A home buyer will also have confidence that the house has been optimally maintained when you show it was audited by Irvin Haddad's RESNET Certified professional and retrofitted by a Energy Smart Contractor. You're more likely to make a faster sale for a higher price.
Uncover Hidden Problems - A home energy audit involves a thorough inspection of your home, which can uncover hidden structural and safety problems before they cause major damage. For example, improper ventilation can cause mold or mildew growth, which you may not discover until it becomes severe and costly repairs are required. Our RESNET Certified professional can prevent problems before they affect your health or damage your home.
Help the Environment - By using less energy, you reduce the amount of pollution and greenhouse gasses that are created in the production of electricity and the fuels we burn. You can feel good about the energy (and money) you're saving because you're doing your part for the environment.
Take Advantage of Government Incentives - While you don't necessarily need a home energy audit in order to take advantage of government tax incentives and rebates, Irvin Haddad's RESNET Certified professional can show you which cost-effective improvements make the most sense for your home. With the recommendations from your energy audit report and tax incentive information, you can make the right decisions as to which measures will pay the biggest return on your investment - and have
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IRVINHADDAD and Associates
243 Governors Park Road
Bellefonte PA 16823
PAHIC#: 018039
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