energy audit FAQ
What’s the difference between an audit, assessment and evaluation?
None! They all describe the same process.
What is an energy assessment?
An energy assessment, audit or evaluation is an investigation into the energy flows of a building: electricity, natural gas, propane, and water. An energy advisor examines a building for points at which energy loss wastes resources, costs you money and makes your building less comfortable.
What sort of recommendations can I expect from an energy assessment?
An energy evaluation can identify solutions ranging from relatively inexpensive actions such as:
- sealing air leaks
- replacing old thermostats with programmable ones
- changing behaviour (turning off lights, closing doors to unused rooms etc.)
And also includes exploring larger projects such as:
- replacing old and inefficient furnaces or appliances
- adding insulation
- repairing or replacing windows
- installing a solar array
Why would I want an energy assessment?
There are several reasons!
- An energy audit will help you understand how to most effectively save money on energy bills by making improvements to your building’s energy efficiency
- Building science matters! Air sealing should be done in congruence with mechanical ventilation. Furnace replacement should be done after building envelope upgrades to prevent over-sizing of mechanical systems. Your energy advisor can help balance these considerations with financial and emissions priorities.
- Improving your building’s energy efficiency also increases it’s durability, comfort and indoor air quality.
- Many grants, rebates and loan programs require an audit to gain access to funding.
- If you want to improve your relationship with the Earth, an energy assessment can help you understand the impact of, and how to reduce, your building’s energy usage