How to Perform a DIY Home Energy Audit

Identify air leaks.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the potential energy savings from reducing drafts in a home may range from 10% to 20% per year.

• Check for indoor air leaks around doors and windows, and look for gaps along the baseboard or edge of the flooring. Also, check the junctures of the walls and ceiling.
• Detect drafts by lighting either an incense stick or a candle. If smoke blows when placed near a gap, air is coming in and out of your home.
• Instead of sealing drafts with conventional caulk or weather stripping, opt for non-toxic, biodegradable or recycled materials like soy-based sealants that minimize your environmental footprint.

Inspect insulation.

Improving your home insulation can result in reduced cooling costs.

• Check for poor insulation by touching walls and ceilings. Warm spots may indicate inadequate insulation.
• Inspect the attic for gaps around pipes, ductwork and chimneys. Additionally, check to see if the attic hatch has as much insulation as the rest of the attic, is weather stripped and closes tightly. 
• If you find you need to add or replace any insulation, look for a natural wool option for greater sustainability.
• Other eco-friendly alternatives include cellulose (made from recycled paper) or hemp insulation. 

Minimize heat from direct sunlight.

When conducting your audit, look for windows in your home that receive the most sun during peak hours.

• Check whether they have effective coverings such as curtains, blinds or window films.
• Consider installing organic cotton, bamboo or hemp curtains for a more biodegradable and sustainable window covering option. Solar window films or exterior awnings can also help to reduce heat gain.
• Long-term solutions like planting shade trees or adding pergolas can provide natural shade from direct sunlight.
• You can also consider a green roof or vertical garden for added natural insulation while also supporting biodiversity. 

Check your cooling system efficiency.

• Check your vents and ensure they remain open and unblocked for better airflow.
• Keep your system running most efficiently by replacing your A/C filters every 1-3 months.
• Schedule HVAC maintenance with a professional once a year, ideally during the spring or fall months.
• If your system is older than 15 years or in poor condition, consider replacing it with a new energy-efficient unit or solar-powered system.
• Consider installing a smart thermostat and program a cooling schedule for your home.
• You can also turn up the thermostat for energy savings and use ceiling fans to circulate air instead.

Optimize lighting and appliances.

The lights in your home can account for about 10% of your electric bill, per the U.S. Department of Energy. Look at the wattage on your lights and see if a lower wattage bulb can replace a higher wattage. LED bulbs are a more energy-efficient lighting choice compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. While you’re conducting your energy audit, take note of devices that stay plugged but are not in use, like phone chargers, TVs or computer equipment. Put these appliances on smart power strips to eliminate phantom energy use.