One qualification I make sure to mention to potential energy audit customers is my being a licensed Connecticut home inspector. Energy audits are by definition, at least in Connecticut, home inspections. The difference is what is inspected and for what purpose.
The Connecticut Statue defines a home inspection as the evaluation of two or more components in a home. Therefore anyone doing an energy audit is technically conducting a home inspection and needs to be licensed.
Unfortunately this loop hole is exploited everyday by many contractors of all different types. Sticking with energy audits, hiring a home inspector makes far more sense than using someone who has been trained to perform energy audits based on a software program.
As a home inspector I evaluate homes in depth and detail every day. I am required to take continuing education in order to maintain my license. My level of expertise and knowledge is broader than a narrowly focused specialty contractor.
To make a point look at the first picture, this was found during an energy audit. The two electric wires going into all that insulation are old knob & tube wires. Knob & tube wiring can not be covered by insulation due to an increased risk of fire.
Two things about this discovery; 1) the insulation contractor never said a word about covering these wire with insulation and 2) a utility company auditor never said a word about these wires being covered with insulation.
The second photo shows the area immediately around a water heater flue pipe which is corroded. What does this mean? That the unit is back drafting into the home and expelling CO. This was discovered during an energy audit.
Another aspect of home energy savings is the DIY trend. As a home inspector I see all too many DIY projects that are just plain wrong and in some cases dangerous. Homeowners attempting to save by doing energy improvements themselves should enlist the help of a qualified energy auditor (home inspector) before beginning major work. Sure there are simple projects that anyone can do, but real savings comes from major improvements such as insulation and changing heating & cooling systems.
An audit performed by a knowledgeable professional using energy auditing software can identify exactly what savings opportunities are available. More importantly what small DIY projects the homeowner can perform themselves safely and with good results.
As this heating season is comes upon us don't be lulled into assuming simple DIY projects or some under qualified "auditor" can help save you big money. The first step in improving your homes energy usage should be consulting with a qualified energy professional who is a home inspector.
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The second photo shows the area immediately around a water heater flue pipe which is corroded. What does this mean? That the unit is back drafting into the home and expelling CO. This was discovered during an energy audit.
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James...that water heater is a disaster just waiting to happen...and not one to recover from either!