If you find yourself reaching for a sweater indoors, layering up with extra blankets at night, or constantly feeling chilly despite your best efforts, it may be time to take action. Drafts and air leaks could be contributing to your discomfort and inflating your heating bills. That’s where a home energy audit, also referred to as an energy assessment, can be a game-changer.
Conducted by a reputable heating system service company in the Chico area, a home energy assessment delves into areas such as air leaks, insulation levels, and ductwork efficiency. By identifying areas where your home is losing energy, the assessment provides actionable insights on how to enhance energy efficiency, such as sealing gaps with caulk and bolstering insulation.
According to estimates by the U.S. Department of Energy, addressing air leaks alone can lead to significant savings on your heating bill, potentially reducing it by 5 to 30 percent, depending on the severity of the leaks. Moreover, improving energy efficiency can enhance overall comfort by eliminating cold spots and ensuring more consistent temperatures throughout your home.
Before scheduling an assessment, take note of any problem areas you’ve observed, such as drafty doors and windows. During the evaluation, the heating system service company will conduct a comprehensive inspection, covering various aspects of your home:
- Exterior examination: This includes inspecting the walls, eaves, and joints for signs of damage or gaps that may allow heat to escape, particularly due to wind and water exposure.
- Attic and basement inspection: These areas are common culprits for energy loss due to inadequate insulation or openings where electrical wiring and exhaust fans lead outside.
- Ductwork assessment: Leaks in ductwork can lead to significant heat loss, with up to 20 percent of heat escaping in some cases. Identifying and sealing these leaks is crucial for improving energy efficiency.
- Heating system evaluation: The furnace, fireplace, and water heater will be inspected to ensure they are operating efficiently and not contributing to unnecessary energy consumption.
Following the assessment, the heating system service company may provide a detailed report outlining recommendations for improving energy efficiency. Depending on your preferences and budget, you may choose to address some improvements yourself, such as installing weather stripping, while others, such as repairing ductwork, may require professional assistance.
Ultimately, investing in a home energy assessment can lead to a more comfortable living environment and lower heating costs over time. If you’re ready to take control of your energy usage and reduce your heating bills, reach out to Experts In Your Home today for expert assistance!