Home Energy Audit Blog

By Erik Braunitzer of Douglas Elliman Real Estate Company, agents for NYC Rentals.

Green is more than a hobby; it is a way of life. Sustainability has become a top concern of many people from all walks of life. It involves a great deal more than recycling; committed consumers seek to reduce their carbon footprint in many ways around the home by consuming less energy. This is accomplished by careful monitoring of energy use and installing efficient appliances to reduce energy consumption. The most effective method for reducing energy consumption is by updating home or business HVAC systems, since heating and cooling account for more than 50% of all energy consumption.

The challenge of reducing expenses and saving energy is on the minds of business owners and consumers. The rising popularity of the green movement and stricter government regulations have led to an environment where new construction and retrofit projects focus on energy efficiency as their top priority. HVAC systems are huge energy users and replacing or upgrading a system can save more energy than any other project a homeowner or businessperson can undertake.

Thermostat: One of the energy-saving devices that consumers can choose to install is a programmable thermostat. These devices allow homeowners who are away from home for certain periods during the workweek to set significantly lower temperatures when away. The thermostats can be programmed to begin warming the home a few minutes before anticipated arrival, so consumers can return to a comfortable home, yet enjoy considerable energy savings. This device can save up to $180 a year in energy costs at current average usage levels.

Air Filters: Air filters should be checked monthly. If the filter is dirty after a month, it should be changed to increase airflow and enhance HVAC performance. Dirty filters block airflow and make the system work harder, expending more energy. Clean filters prevent dust and dirt from accumulating, which can eventually lead to system failure. An HVAC system should be inspected every year to identify any problems and ensure the system is running as designed.

Ducts: One of the most effective upgrades involves the duct system of any HVAC system. Ducts that move air from a furnace, central air conditioner or heat pump are often highly inefficient. Insulating and sealing ducts throughout a home or business can have a major impact on energy consumption. Enhanced system efficiency can cut fuel costs by 20% or more. The work can be performed by a certified technician for best results or homeowners can attempt to accomplish the work themselves. Areas in the attic, crawlspace, basement or garage are notorious for allowing energy to escape and should be the focus for sealing and insulating ducts. Duct sealant (mastic) should be used on all seams and joints. The ducts should then be wrapped in thermal insulation to keep them hot in winter and cool in summer. Once the problem areas have been addressed, ducts in the heated or cooled area of a home or business should be sealed and insulated.

Update Your System: If HVAC equipment is more than 10 years old, or fails to maintain a comfortable temperature, then it is time to have the system evaluated by a professional HVAC contractor. An energy audit can reveal areas for great energy savings. Replacing inefficient or older systems with Energy Star Certified systems can reduce energy consumption and provide tremendous green benefits for homes and businesses. Landlords can often enjoy tax savings by qualifying for energy credits. The reduced energy consumption for home and business owners will often pay for a new system within a few years.

Professional contractors can also make important recommendations to further enhance energy efficiency. These may include ceiling fans, new insulation throughout the home, or replacing windows and doors that allow heat to escape.