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Energy Efficiency Auditing questions, answered by experts

Blower door tests are measured in a few different ways, but the most popular are air changes per hour (ACH) and cubic feet of air (CFM) moving through the house per hour. A good ACH score is less than 2ACH, but 1ACH is better. This means the house experiences a total air change within 60 minutes (for 1ACH). For 2ACH, there’s a complete change every 30 minutes, and so on. CFM scores are similar in that a lower score means less air change, and therefore less leakage.

Typically, triple-pane windows made with krypton gas filling are the most energy efficient. A window’s frame, glass, design, and installation all affect its energy efficiency. These windows, in particular, are designed highly effectively in terms of their ability to insulate.

There are energy-efficient options when building a cottage. Select green building materials, high-performance insulation, and energy-efficient windows when designing your cottage. Options such as solar panels, efficient HVAC systems, and LED lighting can lower your utility bills and reduce your environmental impact. Many builders offer energy-efficient upgrades as part of the design process.

Homeowners may qualify for an HVAC tax credit if they install an ENERGY STAR®-certified HVAC system that exceeds the energy efficiency minimum standards:

  • Split-System AC: 16 SEER2

  • Packaged AC: 15.2 SEER2 and 11.5 EER2

  • Ducted Split Heat Pump: 15.2 SEER2, 7.8 HSPF2, and 11.7 EER2 

  • Packaged Heat Pump: 15.2 SEER2, 7.2 HSPF2, and 10.6 EER2

  • Mini-Split System: 16 SEER2, 9 HSPF2, and 12 EER2

You can claim up to 30% of the cost of the job, subject to maximums.

If your AC runs constantly, it could be due to a number of things, including a faulty thermostat, incorrect temperature settings, or broken equipment. Alternatively, you might have an airflow problem (for example, blocked vents or leaky ductwork). Either way, an HVAC pro can identify the specific problem and fix it for you.

The Howes, SD homeowners’ guide to energy efficiency auditing services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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