Energy Audits Can Be Great Way for Homeowners to Go Green, Save Money

A good energy audit can identify problems with wasted energy in a house, and recommended improvements can save homeowners 20 percent or more on their annual utility bills, depending on the house and the problems. Furthermore, upgrades can make a home more comfortable by eliminating drafts and putting an end to rooms being too hot or too cold. Also, using less energy helps protect the environment. An energy audit makes more sense for older homes as well as certain home styles, including Cape Cods, tri-level homes and homes built with living space over the garage, which tend to use more energy and have higher bills due to inefficient design. Audits average about $200 to $400, but local utilities often offer programs that provide discounts on improvements. Local utilities also can provide suggestions for reputable local contractors to do the audit and recommend improvements. | Read More