Energy Efficiency Auditing questions, answered by experts
Installing weather stripping or upgrading to insulated panels can improve efficiency.
Wood windows fall in the middle of the window frame materials when it comes to energy efficiency. They’re more insulating than aluminum and vinyl, but they aren’t as efficient as fiberglass or composite frames. If you love the look and lifespan of wood windows and want to maximize efficiency, you can upgrade to double-pane or triple-pane glass and consider window tinting and low-emissivity (low-E) coatings to minimize heat transfer.
Home power is measured in kilowatt-hours, commonly expressed as kWh. The average home uses between 800 and 1,000 kWh per month. Peak usage (and highest bills) occurs in the middle of summer and the depths of winter. Keeping on top of your usage during these crucial months will lower your annual average usage considerably.
The difference between an energy auditor and a home inspector is primarily in the purpose of the inspection. The energy auditor conducts tests in your home to determine the energy efficiency levels in areas like windows, insulation, and doorways. The auditor then makes recommendations for ways to improve a home’s energy efficiency.
A home inspector examines various structures of your home to determine that everything is up to code and gauge the condition of features like the roof, foundation, HVAC, and electrical. The home inspector reports on the overall home and makes repair recommendations.
You can save money on heating oil through a combination of improving home efficiency and smart purchasing strategies.
Home Efficiency and Usage:
Improve Insulation: Ensure your home, especially the basement and attic, is well-insulated and sealed against drafts to prevent heat leakage.
Manage Your Thermostat: Use a properly calibrated and programmable thermostat. Lower the temperature by a few degrees, particularly when you are away from home or asleep.
Purchasing Strategies:
Buy in the Off-Season: Order heating oil during the summer months when prices are generally at their lowest. This strategy is most effective if you have a large primary tank or a separate storage tank to accommodate bulk deliveries.
Consider a Delivery Contract: Some companies offer contracts with a set price for the term. This can lead to savings if market prices for oil increase, but you might pay more if prices drop.
The Walhalla, ND homeowners’ guide to energy efficiency auditing services
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