Frequently Asked Questions on Energy Audits and Retrofits
Are you combating high energy bills? When was the last time you had an energy audit? What is an energy audit, you say? Well, read on to have all your questions answered!
Frequently asked questions on energy audits
What is an energy audit?
An energy audit is a process in which professional electricians and audit specialists visit your property to conduct an assessment of your energy consumption.
Is an energy audit necessary?
Yes, an energy audit is necessary as it helps you reduce your electricity consumption and lower your energy bills. At the same time, energy audits also help you improve the efficiency of your electrical appliances.
What do property owners need to prepare before an energy audit is conducted?
As property owners, you need to have your utility bills for the past 2-3 years. Make a list of problems you are facing, and arrange or inform the professionals to carry the necessary equipment like ladders.
What can a property owner expect after an energy audit?
After an energy audit, the property owner may need to do some electrical maintenance and panel upgrades. Many energy specialists also suggest LED replacement and upgrades, insulation, ductwork, sealing air-leak points, replacement or maintenance of heating and cooling systems, and updates in appliances.
How long is an energy audit?
A regular energy audit would last about half an hour to an hour.
What will the follow-up report confirm?
The follow-up report after an energy audit should have the details of the implementation of the action plans suggested by the auditors.
Can homeowners or property owners perform their energy audit?
Property owners can do interim energy audits to ensure all electrical appliances and panels are functioning correctly. However, it is advisable to get a thorough energy audit done by professionals every 4-5 years.
Frequently asked questions on retrofits
What is retrofitting?
Retrofitting is the process of upgrading something that was previously constructed or manufactured.
Which kind of upgrades should a property owner consider?
Property owners should consider a few upgrades to optimize their energy usage: solar panel installation, lighting automation, electrical panel upgrades, LED replacements, smart appliances, and energy-efficient windows.
How to identify that my home or commercial building needs retrofitting?
A professional energy audit can identify if the residential or commercial property needs retrofitting.
What are the purpose and benefits of retrofitting a home or commercial building?
Retrofitting improves the energy performance of a property. It is an environmentally friendly, efficient, and economically viable solution to save the cost of utility bills. Retrofitting also increases the life of an existing building.
What are the three types of retrofits?
There are three types of retrofits:
Minor – This retrofit type involves one solution, or a few small upgrades focusing on one problem, which would lead to energy savings of about 15%
Major – This involves retrofit solutions to multiple problems all over the property, which would lead to energy savings of up to 40%
Deep – Deep retrofitting involves a complete renewal of the building’s electrical fittings. This could lead to more than 40% of energy savings.
It is recommended to get an energy audit done for your commercial or residential properties once every four years. Or you can do it with every service upgrade and repair you get done. This process will help keep your energy usage effective.
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