Our
Energy Audit includes building envelope testing and evaluation along
with consideration of building layout, heating, and cooling components.
This is how we find the actual points of heat loss in a structure
and allow the owner to concentrate improvements on the areas that
will provide the biggest cost savings. Often times, recommended improvements
can be made with caulking, insulation, or weatherstripping. Sometimes
we determine that comfort issues are the result of design problems
involving building layout or HVAC zoning. The goal is to find ways
in which our clients can reduce their energy use and improve comfort
levels. Our recommendations are based on the data we gather and our
experience in solving comfort problems. The building envelope test
involves two separate parts. The first is an Insulation
Survey of the thermal shell (outer walls and ceiling) using an
infrared camera*. This locates areas of radiant heat loss which is
caused by weak or missing insulation. The second part is an Air
Infiltration Test which locates areas of air leakage that cause
convective heat loss along with drafts and discomfort. We provide
you with a written report containing visible and infrared photos,
air leakage calculations, and suggested repair methods. The suggested
improvements are listed in order of the time it will take to recover
your investment starting with the quickest payback and proceeding
down the list. This is our most popular service in the current era
of rising energy costs and can locate problems, that when corrected,
will pay for themselves in a single heating or cooling season in Colorado.
Whatever the findings, you have the report for future reference and
the satisfaction of knowing that your building is properly insulated
and using energy as efficiently as possible. The reports are also
of value to future buyers and to provide baseline data in the event
of remodeling or expansion. Call us for a quote or to schedule an
Energy Audit for your home or office.
*There are companies in the Denver area that perform
energy audits without using an infrared camera due to the high cost
of cameras and infrared training. When comparing audit prices we advise
you to ask if an infrared camera is being used and about the qualifications
of the person using it. It is very difficult to locate areas of missing
insulation with a temperature gun or visual inspection only. Such
audits are not as effective and should be priced accordingly.
