Why You Should Consider a Home Energy Audit

Considering a home energy audit? 

This guide dives into why it's a smart choice for every homeowner. From uncovering hidden energy leaks to long-term savings, discover how this simple step can transform your home’s efficiency and comfort.

Let’s get to it!

Understanding home energy audits

An energy audit, simply put, is a thorough check-up of your home’s energy use. It’s a bit like an MOT for your car but for your house’s energy efficiency. 

Let’s dive into what this involves and why it’s a game-changer for your home.

 

What's involved in an energy audit?

 

In an energy audit, a professional will come to your home and carry out a series of assessments. 

They’ll look at how you’re currently using energy and where you might be losing it. This includes checking your heating (and cooling, if you have it) system, inspecting insulation, and evaluating your windows and doors for draughts. They’ll also take a peek at your appliances and lighting to see if they’re energy hogs. 

In short, then, a home energy audit is a comprehensive approach to understanding your home's energy profile.

 

Professional auditors vs DIY

 

While you can do a basic energy audit yourself, getting a professional is often a wise move. 

They’ve got the tools and the know-how to spot things you might miss. They use equipment like blower doors, which measure the extent of leaks in your home, and infrared cameras to reveal hard-to-spot areas of heat loss. 

But if you’re keen to get started straight away, there are plenty of guides online for conducting a simple DIY audit.

 

Why opt for a professional assessment?

 

There’s no denying the expertise a professional brings. They’ll not only identify the problems but also help you understand why they’re issues and how to fix them effectively. 

Plus, they can provide you with a detailed report, prioritising the improvements that'll give you the best bang for your buck. Think of it as a roadmap to making your home more energy-efficient.

Benefits of a home energy audit

Getting a home energy audit might seem like just another thing on your to-do list, but it's packed with benefits that make it well worth your while.

 

Spotting energy leaks

 

First off, energy audits are, unsurprisingly, excellent at finding where your home is wasting energy. This could be anything from draughty windows to poor insulation. 

Identifying these issues means you can nip them in the bud, making your home more energy-efficient and comfortable.

 

Saving money on bills

 

Who doesn’t love saving a bit of cash? 

By following the recommendations from an energy audit, you can significantly reduce your energy bills. This is because you’ll be using less energy to heat or cool your home, thanks to improvements in efficiency. 

Over time, these savings can really add up, making the audit a smart investment.

 

Enhancing home comfort

 

A more energy-efficient home isn’t just about saving money; it’s also about comfort. 

Sorting out issues like draughts and uneven heating can make your home feel cosier and more inviting. You’ll notice the difference in every room, every day.

 

Reducing your carbon footprint

 

By using less energy, you’re not just helping your wallet, you’re helping the planet too. 

Energy audits can guide you towards a more sustainable lifestyle, reducing your home’s carbon footprint, and making it a win-win for you and the environment.

 

Boosting property value

 

Energy efficiency is a big plus when it comes to property value. Homes with better energy ratings often attract more interest and can sell at a higher price. 

So, if you’re thinking of selling down the line, an energy audit could be a smart move.

Common issues uncovered in energy audits

When it comes to energy audits, a few usual suspects tend to pop up. 

Knowing what these are can help you understand what the auditor might find and why it's important to fix them. Let’s take a look at some of the most common issues energy audits uncover.

 

Inefficient heating and cooling

 

One of the biggest energy guzzlers in a home is often the heating and cooling system. 

Old or poorly maintained boilers, radiators, and air conditioners can be incredibly inefficient. This means they're using more energy than necessary to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

 

Poor insulation and draughts

 

Insulation is like a cosy blanket for your home. If it’s not up to scratch, you could be losing a lot of heat through your walls and roof. 

Similarly, draughty doors and windows let in cold air and let out the warmth, making your heating system work overtime.

 

Outdated appliances and lighting

 

Your old fridge or that ancient light bulb in the hallway might be costing you more than you think. 

Older appliances and traditional incandescent bulbs are far less efficient than their modern counterparts. An energy audit can highlight these as key areas for improvement.

 

Water heating inefficiencies

 

Hot water systems can also be a source of energy waste. 

Whether it’s an old water heater or poorly insulated pipes, these issues can lead to unnecessary energy consumption. Efficient water heating systems and better insulation can make a big difference.

Implementing audit recommendations

Once you've had your energy audit, you'll be armed with a list of recommendations to make your home more energy-efficient. 

It might seem a bit daunting at first, but don’t worry – it's all about taking it one step at a time. 

Here’s how you can go about implementing these suggestions.

 

Prioritising recommendations

 

You don’t have to do everything at once. 

Start by prioritising the changes that are most affordable and offer the biggest energy savings. This could be as simple as replacing old light bulbs with LED ones or sealing up those draughty windows. 

Bigger projects, like upgrading your insulation, can come later.

 

Seeking professional help

 

For more complex improvements, like installing a new heating system, it’s often best to get the pros in. They can ensure the job’s done right, and you might even find that there are warranties or guarantees that add extra peace of mind.

 

Simple changes to start with

 

There are plenty of quick wins you can tackle straight away. Think about turning down your thermostat, draught-proofing doors and windows, and switching off appliances when they’re not in use. 

These small changes can make a noticeable difference in your energy usage.

 

Financing and grants

 

Upgrading your home for energy efficiency doesn’t have to break the bank. 

There are often grants, loans, and other financial support options available, especially for renewable energy installations like solar panels. It’s worth checking out what’s available from the government or local councils.

The long-term impact of an energy audit

Getting a home energy audit isn't just a one-off benefit; it's a step towards a more sustainable and cost-effective future for your home. 

Here's a look at the lasting impacts an energy audit can have.

 

Long-term savings

 

First up, the most obvious long-term benefit is the savings on your energy bills. 

By making your home more energy-efficient, you'll be using less power and gas. These savings can be significant over the years, more than covering the initial cost of the audit and any upgrades you make.

 

Environmental benefits

 

It’s not just about the money. 

Reducing your energy consumption means less carbon emissions, which is great news for the planet. Every little bit helps in the fight against climate change, and your energy-efficient home plays a part in that.

 

Future-proofing your home

 

Energy prices can be unpredictable, but an energy-efficient home is less affected by these fluctuations. By reducing your dependence on external energy sources, you’re protecting yourself against future price hikes. 

Plus, with growing awareness about environmental issues, energy-efficient homes are likely to become even more valuable in the future.

 

Promoting sustainable living

 

Lastly, by making these changes, you’re setting a brilliant example. You’re showing that sustainable living is not only possible but also beneficial in many ways. 

It’s an opportunity to lead by example in your family and community, inspiring others to consider the impact of their energy use.

If you’re based in or around East London and are looking for a competent, reliable, and fully accredited estate agent to handle your next move, pop in and see us. 

We’ve been helping people fulfil their property dreams in the area since 1908, and we’d love to help you next.