What this covers
A home energy audit measures how the house actually performs. The auditor walks the house, attic and basement, checks insulation levels and heating and cooling equipment, and runs a blower door test that depressurizes the house to measure air leakage. With the fan running, an infrared camera shows where cold or warm air is getting in and where insulation is missing. Ducts may be tested for leaks, and fuel-burning appliances are checked for safe venting. The report lists what was found and ranks the improvements, so air sealing and insulation work can be planned in the right order.
When to call
- Rooms that never feel comfortable, or drafts you cannot track down.
- Plans to add insulation, replace HVAC equipment or remodel.
- An older house where you are not sure what is in the walls and attic.
What to expect
- Walk-throughThe auditor looks at the house, attic, basement, windows and equipment.
- Blower doorA fan in the doorway measures leakage while an infrared camera finds the gaps.
- Safety checksFuel-burning appliances are tested for safe draft and carbon monoxide.
- ReportYou get a written list of findings and recommended improvements in priority order.
Get a certified company
Look up a certified company by ZIP code. Every company's license, insurance and trades are verified before it is listed, and placement is never paid.
Questions people ask
How long does an audit take?
Most take a few hours for an ordinary house. The auditor needs access to the attic, basement or crawlspace, and every exterior door and window closed during the test.
What is a blower door test?
A calibrated fan is fitted in an exterior doorway and pulls air out of the house. Measuring the airflow at a set pressure shows how leaky the house is, and makes leaks easier to find.
Is the audit a home inspection?
No. An energy audit focuses on air leakage, insulation, equipment and combustion safety. A home inspection looks at the condition of the whole house.
Related: Air sealing · Attic insulation · Heat pump installation · All insulation and energy
This page describes what the service involves. The company you hire sets the scope, the schedule and the price, and your contract is with that company. We verify credentials and collect reviews from real jobs. We do not guarantee any company's workmanship. Safety steps are general guidance. When in doubt, leave the home and call 911.