Do-It-Yourself Home Energy Assessment

How much was your electric bill last month? Opportunities to reduce energy use exist in nearly all homes, even those recently built. A home energy assessment can identify ways to reduce energy use and save money. While a professional home energy assessment is advisable, you can start with a “do-it-yourself” audit. The US Department of Energy offers a Do-It-Yourself Home Energy Assessment guide at: http://bit.ly/DIY-Audit

Check for Air Leaks: Potential energy savings from reducing drafts range from 10% to 20% per year. Check for indoor air leaks, such as gaps where walls meet floors and ceilings. Check for leaks around windows, doors, light fixtures, light switches, electrical outlets, and plumbing fixtures. Check for leaks on the outside of your home, especially where different building materials meet. Look for cracks and holes in the mortar, foundation, and siding.

Check Insulation Levels: Heat loss through your home’s floor, ceiling, and walls could be substantial if insulation levels are below minimum recommendations. Learn more about adding insulation at: http://bit.ly/DOE-Insulation. In the attic, determine whether pipe, ductwork, and chimney openings are sealed. Check to see if there is a vapor barrier under the attic insulation. Ensure insulation doesn’t block exterior attic vents.

Check Heating and Cooling Equipment: Inspect heating and cooling equipment annually. If you have a forced-air furnace, check and replace filters regularly. Generally, every month or two, especially during periods of high usage. Check ductwork for dirt streaks, especially near seams. These indicate air leaks. If your HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system is over 15 years old, consider replacing it with a newer, energy-efficient system.

Check Lighting: Energy for lighting accounts for about 10% of your electric bill. Examine the light bulbs and consider replacing incandescent bulbs with a more efficient option, such as LED (light emitting diode) bulbs.

Check Appliances and Electronics: Estimate energy use of appliances and electronics. Consider unplugging devices that draw standby power when not in use or connect them to a smart power strip.

Entergy-Arkansas customers may qualify for a free home energy assessment through the Home Energy Solutions Program. Call 866-627-9177 for more information.