Energy Efficiency Auditing questions, answered by experts
Window AC units use a fair amount of electricity, but significantly less than central AC systems. Because they are more energy-efficient for cooling individual rooms or small spaces, their usage is comparatively low. On average, a window AC unit consumes between 500 and 1,400 watts, while a central AC system uses over 3,500 watts—meaning a window unit uses about one-third of the energy. This typically translates to a monthly running cost of $15 to $40, although this can vary depending on external factors.
Services by electricians can quickly get expensive, but there are a few ways you can save money in the process:
Bundle multiple jobs done at the same time to save on trip fees or flat fees for individual projects.
Get at least three quotes for service to find the best deal.
Buy fixtures, switches, outlets, and other materials beforehand to avoid product markup.
If you feel comfortable with it, have an apprentice or journeyman complete the work under the supervision of a master electrician. These electricians in training tend to charge less per project.
There is no blanket figure for a residential home’s electrical load, since load varies by the size of the home, how many appliances are used, and the efficiency of their electrical systems. Typically, however, it’s safe to assume 40 to 60 amps is the average electrical load of a residential home.
HVAC systems use the most household electricity. This major and essential system is responsible for heating and cooling your home all year round. Since they operate for a significant amount during the day, it consumes more energy than other appliances.
Energy-efficient windows are judged on their performance according to a few different factors, including heat transfer, air leakage, light transference, and condensation resistance. If you're unsure whether a window is energy-efficient, look for an ENERGY STAR® label from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). If various products, including windows, meet energy-efficiency standards set by the federal government, the EPA issues this label to help consumers identify energy-efficient products.
The Jackpot, NV homeowners’ guide to energy efficiency auditing services
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