It is often during the summer heat and chilly winter nights that your HVAC system has to work extra hard to keep your family comfortable. Now, what if your HVAC system isn’t operating at its peak efficiency? You would be losing money on wasted energy. Not to mention a compromise on home comfort. To ensure that your HVAC system is working optimally, you should conduct a DIY home energy audit. It will help pinpoint areas where your HVAC system might be losing efficiency. So how do you conduct a home energy audit?
If you find yourself asking how to conduct a home energy audit, follow the steps below. To learn more about how you can ensure energy efficiency for your system all year round, contact the heating and air conditioning experts at Galmiche & Sons today.
DIY Steps on How to Conduct a Home Energy Audit
Step 1: Start with a Visual Inspection
Go around your home and check the accessible HVAC components. Check for visible signs of wear, rust, or dirt accumulation on your furnace, air conditioner, or heat pump.
- Look for Debris: Leaves, dust, and other debris can obstruct airflow in outdoor units.
- Inspect Filters: Dirty filters compromise airflow and force your HVAC system to work harder, so make sure to clean or replace them regularly.
- Check Vents and Registers: Ensure they’re open and unobstructed by furniture or carpeting.
Step 2: Examine Your Insulation
Good insulation is crucial for keeping your home at a comfortable temperature and reducing stress on your HVAC system.
- Check the Attic: Make sure that your attic is adequately insulated. Look for areas where insulation might be thin or missing.
- Inspect for Drafts: Check for drafts around windows, doors, and electrical outlets. Seal these gaps with weatherstripping or caulking to prevent cold or warm air from escaping.
Step 3: Evaluate Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and doors can leak air, making your HVAC system work harder as well. When conducting a home energy audit, double-check these openings.
- Inspect Window Seals: Look for gaps and cracks in your window seals. Sealing them can keep conditioned air from leaking out.
- Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Windows: Consider installing double-pane or energy-efficient windows, which can help maintain indoor temperatures.
Step 4: Check Your Ductwork
Leaky ductwork can reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system by allowing conditioned air to escape.
- Seal Those Leaks: Inspect your ductwork, especially in attics, basements, and crawl spaces, for any visible leaks and use duct sealant or metal tape to close them.
- Insulate Ducts: Insulating ductwork in unconditioned spaces will prevent energy loss and improve overall efficiency.
Step 5: Assess Your Thermostat
- Upgrade to a Programmable Thermostat: If you’re using an old thermostat, it may be time to upgrade to a programmable or smart thermostat. This allows you to set schedules for heating and cooling, optimizing energy use. Learn more tips for how to choose the right thermostat for your St. Louis home.
- Check Settings: Make sure your thermostat is set correctly based on the season. A small adjustment of just a few degrees can make a significant difference in energy consumption.
Step 6: Conduct a Blower Door Test
This is an optional test. However, it can be beneficial. A blower door test can identify air leakage in your home. While you can hire a professional to perform this test, kits are available for purchase if you prefer a DIY approach.
Step 7: Monitor Your Energy Bills
Keep an eye on your energy bills for any spikes that may indicate your HVAC system isn’t running efficiently.
Contact Galmiche & Sons If You Want Help with How to Conduct a Home Energy Audit
By following these steps, you’ll become more aware of your home’s energy usage and can take actions to boost your HVAC system’s efficiency.
For more personalized help, Galmiche & Sons is one of the leading heating and cooling companies serving the St. Louis area. If you need assistance with anything from a more thorough audit to HVAC system maintenance, repairs, and upgrades, give us a call. We’ll ensure your home remains comfortable while optimizing energy use.
