If you've scheduled a home energy audit, now's the time to prepare for the appointment. You might not think that you need to prepare for the audit, but that's not the case. With adequate preparation, your audit provides a more accurate report. If you're not sure how to prepare for a home energy audit, read the list provided below. You'll find four steps you need to take before your HVAC contractor arrives for the audit.
Document Home Energy Issues
If you're having issues with your home's energy efficiency, document those issues. The more information you give to your contractor, the better they can help you. Some information to provide includes the locations of hot and cold spots throughout the house and the presence of moisture problems. It's also a good idea to give your HVAC contractor copies of your home energy bills. That way, they can track your energy usage through the past year.
Schedule Fireplace Maintenance
If you've decided on a home energy audit, take the time to have your fireplace cleaned. The home energy audit includes a blower test. This blower test blows air through your home. If your fireplace is dirty, you could end up with soot throughout your home. One of the best ways to prevent the mess is to have your fireplace cleaned before the energy audit. If you don't have time to have your fireplace cleaned, use a high-powered vacuum to remove the loose ash and soot.
Clear Path to Attic and Crawlspace
If you're scheduled for a home energy audit, don't forget about the attic and crawlspace. Your HVAC contractor needs access to both areas during the energy audit. If the doors are blocked, or the spaces are filled with clutter, you might not get the most accurate results on your energy audit. To ensure accurate results, make the attic and crawlspace accessible to your HVAC contractor.
Secure Your Doors and Windows
If you're ready for your home energy audit, be sure to secure your doors and windows. If your doors and windows are open, even a little, the home energy audit can't provide accurate results. Before the HVAC crew arrives, go through your home to check all of your doors and windows. The windows should be shut tight. As you leave the house, make sure that the doors are shut tight as well.
Now that you've scheduled a home energy audit, use the tips provided here to prepare for your appointment.
Contact a local HVAC contractor to learn more about home energy audits.
