Choosing the correct energy auditing firms for your needs could get you the savings and comfort you and your family needs. There basically three kinds of companies that can complete the job for you: public utility companies, private energy services companies and the US State energy department. Of these three, companies providing private energy services are the easiest to reach. But with a handful of these firms around, it is important that you know which ones are the best in what they do.
Check for Accreditation
When considering an energy auditing firm, you first have to check if it’s accredited. Residential auditors should be accredited by either the Residential Energy Services Network or by the Building Performance Institute. RESNET is a certification for new homes meaning those that are yet to be built and the owners would like to get pieces of advice on how to go about with the right insulation. On the other hand, BPI is reserved for the auditing of existing homes and how you can improve or replace your existing insulation in order to meet the requirements for state and federal tax rebates.
Your Energy Auditing Firm Should Inspect Your Home Thoroughly
Your energy auditing firm must explain beforehand what they will do and why they need to do so. A good firm must provide a thorough inspection and diagnosis of your home by looking at each of the components including the insulation, framing, moisture control, and HVAC and so on.
Assessing the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning capacity of any home is essential in determining the over-all energy consumption and waste of your home. Unlike any ordinary insulation specialist, an energy auditor will look at the quality of the distribution system, its efficiency and the amount of duct leakage.
Also, the energy auditor will look into the three things that cause buildings to fail and these are rain, condensation and moisture. So your chosen auditor must be able to look for the source of moisture problems and that is to eliminate one of the reasons for bacteria and molds to thrive.
Further, a detailed analysis of your combustion appliances and your home’s envelope must be in place. The safety of the combustion appliances that you have in your home is essential in eliminating possible fire starters. On the other hand, the integrity of your home’s envelope will determine the success of the insulation system in place.
Is the Price Just Right?
Hiring an energy audit firm is costly but if you hire the right one, it will be a worthy investment. So ask around for feedback regarding convenience, quality of work and the rate with which the job was completed. If you think money will be an issue, ask your auditor if a finance option is available and if you would qualify for you.
Lastly, look for a guarantee – whether it is lifetime or limited. This will ensure that the job will be done right the first time and there is no need to come back several times just to fix issues that should have already been completed.
By going with a private energy auditing firm, you are assured that response will be fast and the equipments in excellent condition. Choose your auditor well because it is only by doing so that you will soon enjoy the benefits of proper insulation and a healthier home.
Talk to a professional at Star Energy Audits, which is one of the top companies that offer a variety of quality and efficient insulation services. Call (504) 383-3261 or visit StarEnergyAudits.com
About the Author: Star Energy Audits is locally owned and operated by Brad Harris. Our Office is located in New Orleans and operates in the Gulf South region to include Biloxi to Venice. Baton Rouge to Houma. Brad Harris has been a residential builder since 1996 and has a complete understanding of Residential and Commercial business and considers the most efficient and effective means of accomplishing the job under any circumstances.