Energy Survey

An energy survey typically consists of a site visit to the building conducted by a trained energy professional. Sometimes referred to as a "walk-through" audit, the energy professional will look at the various features of the building, both inside and outside, and make recommendations on how to improve or correct problems that he/she identifies.

An energy survey can also include information relating to moisture, such as outside water drainage problems or wet interior walls, because these problems can affect the energy performance of the building and may be unhealthy. Normally the energy professional will look at the attic area, every room on every floor (including the basement) and will also look at the crawl space and other areas. Sometimes the energy professional will leave information, such as energy improvement checklists or brochures, with the client. Sometimes a report will be sent in the mail after the site visit.

Energy surveys typically don't include the use of sophisticated software or certain energy testing equipment, such as a blower door or infrared camera. An energy professional will normally be at the home or building site for around 1 to 3 hours or so.

Energy Audit

Energy audits are more sophisticated than an energy survey. An energy professional will typically measure the building and draw the floorplan as part of an energy audit. Also, doors, windows and other features are measured and notated.

An energy audit will go into more detail about the energy problems found and the potential solutions available. Many times a sophisticated software program is used that can estimate the cost of the energy improvements and/or show the payback period for certain energy improvements.

An energy audit can include the use of an infrared camera, a blower door or other energy testing devices. Some energy audits can be conducted online using a special website portal. There are energy audit kits that can be purchased for customers who want to do their own audits. Some energy professionals can also provide the services necessary to conduct certain energy improvements.

The Department of Housing and Urban Development or HUD has required that all housing authorities (HAs) and public housing authorities (PHAs) conduct energy audits on their buildings. Information about energy audits for HAs and PHAs can be found here.

For detailed information regarding home energy ratings, also called HERS - Home Energy Rating Systems tests, please click HERE