How Do Energy Audits In WA Work?

Posted on May 13, 2014 by lorianjames0

If you are planning to make your home appliances more energy efficient, an energy audit is essential because it would tell you exactly how much energy your home uses, point out the areas where energy is being wasted and how you can save energy as well as money. It saves you a handsome amount of money (approximately 5 to 30%) on power bills. You will also find out which of your appliance to upgrade first. This audit is your gateway to becoming aware of the health and safety issues in your house.

But how do these audits work anyway?

Also known as energy assessment, energy audits consists of two components namely: home assessment and analysis. Both these are done using a computer and a software. A professional energy auditor analyzes your power bills, conducts visual inspections and health and safety inspections. The auditor may also use some special tools like:

• Infrared camera
• Blower door to determine the source of the energy loss
• Digital probe thermometer to test temperature increase in heating equipment and fan operating temperatures
• Soap bubbles to find out whether there are fuel leaks in combustion appliances
• Inspection mirror to see in compact, crammed or inaccessible spaces
• Draft gauge to find out chimney drafts
• Moisture meter to measure the level of moisture in wood and various different materials
• Combustion analyzer
• Manometer to determine the air pressure inside your home to pinpoint leakages in the air and test the exhaust equipment to check whether they are properly operated
• Watt meter to measure the electrical energy used by different devices in your home
• Smoke generating device to generate a thin stream of non-toxic smoke to locate air leakages and duct leakages
• Flashlight with batteries to see behind electrical appliances
• Digital camera to see into inaccessible places and take graphical notes of the house
• Screwdrivers, adjustable wrench and pliers to take out electrical outlet covers and check the insides
• Telescoping ladder to get to the attic or other high areas

Based on the information gathered from the inspection, the auditor provides you with a detailed report containing a verdict on which energy efficiency in WA upgrades should be your priority. Look for a certified and experienced energy auditor. If your state or local authorities offer energy audits for free or at an economical fee, opt for it as soon as possible. Also, try to find a contractor who is ENERGY STAR accredited. These professionals are trained to carry out a complete evaluation of your house and help you decide on how your appliances’ energy efficiency will work.

Don’t forget that the energy audits in WA are only the stepping stone. It’s the actual upgrade that will help you save money and lead a healthier, safer life.

Source: http://aubusinessnetwork.edublogs.org/2014/05/13/how-do-energy-audits-in-wa-work/