Energy Efficiency: How Does it Work?

1. Perform Tests (also include pictures of each test)

• Carbon Monoxide Test
  • Test for high levels of potentially lethal carbon monoxide in combustion “appliances” like ovens, water heaters, furnaces, boilers, etc.
  • Checks flues and venting of combustion “appliances”
    
    
  
  
• Gas Leaks Test
  • Identifying natural or propane leaks, which might not be detectable without specialized equipment
    
    
  
  
• Moisture Test
  • Check for moisture problems in basements/crawl-spaces, attics, exterior walls and interior living spaces (e.g., bathrooms)
    
    
  
  
  
• Mechanical Vent Test
  • Check for proper operation to ensure adequate venting of combustion gases and moisture
    
    
  
  
  
• Blower Door Test
  • Pressurize/depressurize building to check for air leaks
    
    
  
  
  
• Air Duct Blaster Test
  • Pressurize/depressurize heating and air conditioning ducts for leaks
  • Especially important for ducts in attics and basements/crawl-spaces
    
    

• Combustion Appliance Efficiency Test
  • Test building heating equipment (furnace, boiler) and domestic hot-water heaters under actual operating conditions for efficiency, using specialized equipment
    
    
  
  
  
• Electrical Usage Evaluation
  • Identify inefficient appliances using specialized test equipment
  • Review existing lighting usage
    
    

2. Report

• Findings from test results
• Corrective Recommendations / Measures
  • Description of work
  • Cost
  • Savings
  • Return-on-Investment
  • Payback Period
• Financial Incentives

3. Perform Agreed-Upon Measures

• Repair gas leaks
• Install CO detectors
• Repair or replace nonfunctioning vents
• Perform air-sealing
• Install insulation
• Seal leaky ducts
• Replace inefficient lighting
• Replace inefficient heating and hot-water units
• Install programmable thermostats
• Install fresh-air ventilation units
• Check gutters, leaders and downspouts for proper dispersion of water (away from building)
• Replace windows and doors