How to Hire an Energy Audit Company Pro: A Comprehensive Guide

As a homeowner or business owner, you're likely no stranger to the increasing costs of energy bills and the importance of reducing your carbon footprint. One effective way to achieve both is by hiring an energy audit company to assess your property's energy efficiency. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of finding and hiring a reliable energy audit company, including what to expect, how to prepare, and what questions to ask.

Introduction to Energy Audits

An energy audit is a thorough assessment of your property's energy usage, aiming to identify areas of inefficiency and provide recommendations for improvement. Whether you're looking to reduce your energy bills, enhance your property's value, or simply contribute to a more sustainable future, an energy audit is a valuable first step. While it's possible to attempt some DIY energy-saving measures, hiring a professional energy audit company can provide a more comprehensive and accurate assessment, leading to significant long-term savings.

Who to Hire / Services Available

There are various types of professionals and services available in the energy audit industry. For residential properties, a home energy audit company can assess your home's insulation, windows, heating and cooling systems, and more, providing personalized recommendations for energy-efficient upgrades. For commercial properties, a commercial energy audit company can conduct a more complex assessment, considering factors like lighting, HVAC systems, and energy management systems. It's essential to choose a company that specializes in your type of property to ensure you receive the most relevant and effective advice.

When to Call a Professional

If you've noticed any of the following signs, it may be time to hire an energy audit company:

• High energy bills that seem inconsistent with your usage.
• Inefficient heating or cooling, leading to discomfort in your home or business.
• You're planning renovations or upgrades and want to ensure they're energy-efficient.
• You're interested in exploring incentives or rebates for energy-efficient improvements.

How to Find a Reliable Service

Finding a reliable energy audit company can seem daunting, but there are several steps you can take:

• Check online reviews and ask for referrals from friends, family, or neighbors who have had similar work done.
• Verify that the company is licensed, insured, and certified by a reputable organization, such as the U.S. Department of Energy or the Environmental Protection Agency.
• Look for companies that offer a comprehensive energy audit, including a site visit, energy usage analysis, and detailed recommendations for energy-efficient upgrades.

Before Hiring

Before you hire an energy audit company, there are several preparation steps to take:

Planning/Requirements

Define the scope of your project and what you hope to achieve from the energy audit. Consider your budget for both the audit and any subsequent upgrades. It's also a good idea to gather past energy bills and any information about your property's current energy usage.

Checking Qualifications/Insurance

Ensure the company you choose has the necessary qualifications, certifications, and insurance. You can check for certifications from organizations like the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). Also, verify that the company has liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance to protect you and their employees in case of accidents.

Questions to Ask Your Pro

Before hiring an energy audit company, ask the following questions:

1. What experience do you have with properties similar to mine?
2. What does your energy audit process entail, and how long does it take?
3. What kind of recommendations can I expect, and how will they be presented?
4. Do you provide any guarantees or warranties for your services?
5. Can you provide references from previous clients?
6. How do you stay updated with the latest energy-efficient technologies and practices?
7. Are there any incentives or rebates you can help me explore for energy-efficient upgrades?

Hiring & Contracts

Once you've selected an energy audit company, it's crucial to define the hiring process, contract, and payment terms clearly. Ensure you receive a written contract that outlines the scope of work, cost, and any guarantees or warranties. Here's a general idea of what you might expect in terms of service types and costs:

Service Type	Cost Range	What’s Included
Home Energy Audit	$300-$500	Site visit, energy usage analysis, recommendations for energy-efficient upgrades
Commercial Energy Audit	$1,000-$5,000+	Comprehensive assessment, energy management system analysis, detailed upgrade recommendations
Energy-Efficient Upgrades	Varies	Implementation of recommended upgrades, such as LED lighting, insulation, window replacement, HVAC upgrades

Conclusion

Hiring an energy audit company is a proactive step towards reducing your energy bills, enhancing your property's comfort, and contributing to a more sustainable environment. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can find a reliable professional to assess your property's energy efficiency and provide actionable recommendations for improvement. Remember to always check qualifications, ask the right questions, and get everything in writing. For a seamless experience, consider finding a local energy audit company pro on PLMBR or getting quotes on PLMBR to compare services and prices. Take the first step towards a more energy-efficient future today.