This quick checklist will let you evaluate many of the worst energy wasting culprits in your home.
It is not to be considered a be all end all survey of your home but it may point out areas that need some attention.
For a full energy audit you may be able to contact your local electric company for free or low cost evaluation of your home. If you do ask someone in to inspect your home you should ask that they do a whole house air pressure test where they place a fan in your doorway and measure the infiltration of air at every window door and tiny crack .. that is a real good test but unfortunately it is rarely done.
Attic
lnsulation spread evenly
lnsulation in good condition
Attic vents are unblocked by insulation
Attic access doors properly insulated and sealed
Walls and floors
Minimum R-value of 19 for perimeter walls
Minimum R-value 25 for under-floor insulation
Basement
Ductwork insulated and sealed
Hot water pipes insulated
Water heater insulated, if in unconditioned space
Heating and Cooling
Air supply vents are unblocked by fumiture or curtains
Retum air registers are unblocked by furniture
Retum air handler filters are clean
HVAC system has had annual maintenance check-up
Programmable thermostat installed and programmed
Windows and Doors
Windows close and lock properly
Window gaskets in good condition
Window trim sealed and painted
Doors properly weather stripped
Doors close and latch properly
Exterior Penetrations
Plumbing and wire openings sealed:
Kitchen cabinets
Bathroom cabinets
Utility room
Fireplace damper seals tightly
Appliances and Lighting
Refrigerator condenser coils clean
Refrigerator door gasket tight
Unused refrigerators and freezers unplugged
Water heater set to 120 degrees or below
Dishwasher energy-saving feature turned on
Washing machine loads run with cold water when possible
Well Pump
Operating properly
Good pressure
No leaks
Lighting
Compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs) used
Outdoor lighting automatically triggered by motion or dark
Final Note
Remember this is just a one hour test that you can perform yourself.
In our other howtos we will look at a full air infiltration and energy audit.