Energy Audit and Consultation
The exterior of your home—the outer walls, ceiling, windows, and floor—is called the “envelope” or “shell.” As a knowledgeable homeowner or with the help of a skilled contractor, you can save up to 20 percent on heating and cooling costs (or up to 10 percent on your total annual energy bill) by sealing and insulating your home envelope. It will also make your home more comfortable and help your heating and cooling system run more efficiently.
We use special diagnostic tools to pinpoint and seal the hidden air leaks in your home.
Hidden Air Leaks
Many air leaks and drafts are easy to find because they are easy to feel—like those around windows and doors. But holes
hidden in attics,basements, and crawlspaces are usually bigger problems. Sealing these leaks with caulk, spray foam, or weather stripping will have a great impact on improving your comfort and reducing utility bills.
Homeowners are often concerned about sealing their house too tightly; however, this is very unlikely in many older homes. A certain amount of fresh air is needed for good indoor air quality, and there are specifications that set the minimum amount of fresh air needed for a house. After any project where you reduce air leakage, have a heating and cooling technician check to make sure that your combustion appliances (gas- or oil fired furnace, water heater, and dryer) are venting properly. For additional information on Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) issues related to homes, such as combustion safety, visit EPA’s Indoor Air Quality Web site at www.epa.gov/iaq.