Home Energy Audits: What to Expect and How They Save You Money

Is your home colder than it should be in winter? Or does your AC run nonstop during the hottest months, yet you’re still sweating it out? If your energy bills seem sky-high but comfort is low, you’re not alone. At Platts Heating & Air, we know firsthand how small problems—like leaky windows or an outdated thermostat—can quietly drain your wallet.

That’s where a home energy audit comes in. It’s not just another service—it’s a roadmap to a more comfortable, efficient, and affordable home. Let’s break down what to expect, what you’ll learn, and how a professional audit can turn your house into a savings machine.

What Is a Home Energy Audit? 🧐

Think of a home energy audit like a doctor’s checkup, but for your house. It’s a detailed inspection that looks for every draft, leak, and energy hog hiding in your home. The goal? To uncover what’s costing you money and comfort—before it gets any worse.

Tools Used:

• Blower doors (to test how much air leaks in/out)
• Infrared cameras (to spot hidden drafts and missing insulation)
• Duct leakage testers
• Combustion analyzers (for furnaces and gas appliances)
• Moisture meters

Areas Inspected:

• Attic and crawl spaces
• Windows and doors
• HVAC systems (from radiant heating to whole-house fans)
• Ductwork and vents
• Insulation levels
• Thermostats and controls
• Appliances, lighting, and outlets

Typical Findings:

• Gaps in attic insulation
• Duct leaks reducing your heating/cooling efficiency
• Old thermostats that don’t “learn” your patterns
• Poorly sealed doors and windows
• Outdated or dirty air filters affecting indoor air quality

These findings aren’t just technical details—they have a real impact on your comfort, health, and monthly bills.

The Audit Process

Scheduling a home energy audit with Platts Heating & Air is straightforward. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Scheduling:
You pick a convenient time. We’ll confirm details and share how you can prep your home.

2. Duration:
Most audits take 2–4 hours, depending on your home’s size and complexity.

3. Homeowner Prep:

• Clear access to attics, crawl spaces, and furnace rooms.
• Secure pets if possible.
• Make a list of comfort problems (cold rooms, uneven temps, allergy flare-ups).

4. The Walkthrough:
Our certified technician will walk through your home with you, asking questions and noting concerns. This isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” checklist. It’s tailored to your home’s quirks and your family’s needs.

5. Testing:
With specialized tools, we test for air leaks, insulation gaps, and HVAC inefficiencies. It might look high-tech, but it’s all about finding what your eyes can’t see.

6. The Report:
You’ll get a clear, easy-to-read report—often the same day—summarizing findings, photos, and recommended upgrades. No jargon, just answers.

Common Recommendations

After your audit, here are some upgrades and fixes we often recommend:

Insulation Improvements:

• Adding or replacing attic and wall insulation
• Sealing gaps around pipes, vents, and outlets

HVAC Upgrades:

• Replacing old furnaces or AC units with high-efficiency models
• Installing programmable or smart thermostats
• Adding whole-house fans or mini-splits for room-by-room control

Duct Sealing & Cleaning:

• Repairing leaky ducts (boosting heating/cooling power)
• Cleaning out dust, mold, and debris for better air quality

Other Fixes:

• Weatherstripping doors and windows
• Upgrading filters, humidifiers, or dehumidifiers
• Installing air scrubbers or IAQ systems to cut down on indoor pollutants

Every home is unique. That’s why our recommendations are built for your house—not your neighbor’s.

How Audits Save Money 💸

Let’s get to the heart of it: How does an audit actually put cash back in your pocket?

1. Utility Bill Analysis:
Energy auditors measure how much electricity, gas, and oil you’re actually using, then compare it to similar homes. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that homeowners can save 5–30% on energy bills after recommended upgrades. That’s not pocket change.

2. Targeted Fixes:
Instead of guessing, you’ll know exactly which fixes matter most—no wasted money on “maybe” upgrades.

3. Rebates & Incentives:
Many states and utility companies offer rebates for upgrades like high-efficiency furnaces, radiant heating near you, or air sealing work. We’ll point you toward available programs and help with paperwork.

4. Real-World Case Study:
A recent Platts Heating & Air customer had cold spots and rising bills every winter. After an audit, we found uninsulated ducts and a tired furnace. Sealing the ducts, adding insulation, and installing a smart thermostat slashed their heating bills by 22% in the first year. Comfort improved, too.

5. Long-Term Savings:
A well-sealed, efficient home means fewer emergency hvac calls, longer-lasting equipment, and lower maintenance costs over the years.

Certified Audit Process & Before/After Examples

At Platts Heating & Air, our auditors follow protocols set by organizations like RESNET (Residential Energy Services Network) and BPI (Building Performance Institute). That means every test is done by the book.

Before:

• Drafts in the living room
• Dusty, noisy HVAC
• Ice dams on the roof

After:

• Even, cozy temps throughout the house
• Cleaner indoor air
• Noticeable drop in monthly energy bills

Homeowners often say it feels like living in a whole new house—without moving.

Practical Tips for Homeowners 🛠️

• Change HVAC filters every 1–3 months.
• Use caulk or weatherstripping on windows and doors.
• Keep vents clear of furniture and dust.
• Set thermostats to energy-saving settings (68°F in winter, 78°F in summer).
• Schedule regular HVAC maintenance—especially before peak seasons.

For safety, always follow local building codes and manufacturer guidelines when tackling DIY fixes.

FAQ

How often should I get a home energy audit?
Every 3–5 years, or after major renovations, HVAC installations, or if your bills spike unexpectedly.

Is an energy audit disruptive?
Not at all. Most testing is non-invasive. We work quickly and respectfully, treating your home as if it were our own.

What’s the difference between an audit and a regular HVAC tune-up?
A tune-up focuses just on your heating or cooling system. An energy audit covers the whole house—from attic to basement, ducts to doors.

Local & Seasonal Considerations 🌦️

Energy use changes with the seasons. In winter, heat loss through attics and windows is the big culprit. In summer, duct leaks and poor insulation make your AC work overtime. If you’ve just moved or notice new comfort problems, a seasonal audit can pinpoint why your utility bills are climbing.

Homes with radiant heating near you or emergency hvac needs benefit most from proactive audits—especially before the busiest months.

Ready to make your home more comfortable and efficient, year-round?
Call Platts Heating & Air now — or reach us anytime at  888-828-9042 .