Know how Energy Effecient a Home is Before you buy.

There are many things to consider when buying a house. Some are personal preferences that differ from person to person and family to family. Others are things that every buyer should take into consideration on every house. Is the foundation sound? Are there any major repairs needed now or in the near future, such as new roof, expensive repair or replacement of the heating and air conditioning system, any structural issues with the floor or roof. And one issue that is just as important is how Energy Effecient is the house.

An energy effecient home impacts the occupants lives in more ways than just saving money on utility bill. An energy effecient home is sealed better to keep conditioned air in the house and outside air(and the pollutants it carries) out of the house. This means better indoor air quality inside the home. Also , air leaking into or out of the house(depending on the season) will leave moisture in the walls. This happens when warm humid air passes through your wall, air will pass through the wall but moisture is trapped inside. The last thing you want is moisture in the wall, this can lead to many problems.

In an energy effecient home, the heating and air conditioning system will not have to run as much to keep the interior of the house at the desired temperature. This means a longer life for your equipment and less maintenace cost during that life.

Then there is the money saved each month on utility bills. This can be 20% to 40% for the average house. If the home averages $200 per month in utility bills, that could mean a savings of $40.00 to $80.00 per month.

An Energy Audit, performed by a certified professional(currently there are only 2 certifications in this area, BPI Building Analyst, and RESNET Certified HERS Rater)  is required in about 12 municipalities throughout the country now. Quite a few more are looking at this type of legislation.

Every buyer should have an Energy Audit done along with a Home Inspection. You would not buy a car without knowing the MPG. Why buy a house with out knowing its MPG.