services

energy audits

On-site residential energy audits include visual inspection and imaging, defining and measuring the thermal envelope of the home, gas leak testing, combustion safety testing, blower door testing, thermal imaging, HVAC system efficiency overview, and focus on problem areas as requested.

The on-site process takes about 3-5 hours, based on homes less than 3000 square feet. After the on-site testing, report generation takes a couple of days. (NJ Home Performance with ENERGY STAR reports will be generated by your Program Contractor.)

You are encouraged to participate in the on-site process, otherwise you just need to be home. Full access will be needed to basements, attics, crawlspaces, and other areas related to energy efficiency. Pets, children, and other distractions may hinder the process and reduce the value of the report.

blower door testing

A blower door is used to measure the total air leakage of a home, estimate the annual rate and costs of the leakage, and provide a benchmark for comparison to other structures of similar size, shape, and orientation.

A special fan is set up in an outside door (typically the front door), safety adjustments are made to combustion appliances, and the home is put in winter-mode (all exterior doors and windows shut, etc.)

The test takes about 20 minutes and depressurizes the home to 50 pascals which is similar to a wind on the home but on all sides equally. After the test, the fan is adjusted to a lower level and thermal imaging is used to scan the home for problem areas.

thermal imaging

Thermal imaging, also called infrared imaging or thermography, is used to find and/or measure temperature differences of surfaces. In a home energy audit, entire rooms can be quickly scanned for air leaks, missing insulation, moisture problems, and a variety of other issues. Custom and commercial thermal imaging, video, and editing is also available.

In order to achieve useful thermal images, there should be a temperature differential of at least 20 degrees F between indoors and outside. By using the blower door in conjunction with thermal imaging, many hidden leaks can be found.

A collection of still thermal images with explanation is included in the report. An unedited thermal imaging video of the project is included on the report CD. Optionally, a fully edited and narrated thermal imaging video may be ordered for an additional fee.

combustion safety test

Combustion appliances (boilers, furnaces, ovens, etc.) produce, among other things, carbon monoxide (CO) when they operate. It is important that these appliances vent the poisonous gases to the outside properly. We make several critical measurements to ensure that, at the time of the tests, the appliances are functioning safely and properly.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly, odorless, colorless byproduct of incomplete combustion. Gas-fired water heaters, furnaces, stoves, fireplaces, and other combustion appliances produce carbon monoxide. Due to efficiency limitations, certain CO levels are expected and should be properly vented.

As part of the energy audit, carbon monoxide levels are checked at several locations in the home. High level readings are noted in the report and could be an indication of backdrafting, improper burner adjustment, cracked heat exchangers, or other issues.

All homes should have at least one carbon monoxide detector (in addition to smoke detectors) near the living and bedroom areas. These detectors should be replaced every few years as some sensors tend to deteriorate.

gas leak test

Natural gas and propane are expensive, explosive, and should not be leaking from anywhere in your home. Even small leaks can be dangerous and expensive.

All accessible gas lines are checked for leakage using similar equipment to what is used by the gas company. Many leaks can not be found by smell alone.

You are paying for all gas that flows through the meter whether it is converted to heat or not.

HVAC efficiency

The efficiency of your heating and cooling equipment determines how effectively raw energy is converted to heating or cooling. Many factors contribute to overall system efficiency, but the standardized ratings (AFUE, SEER, etc.) are basic starting points.

Ratings for your furnace and air conditioning equipment are referenced, general conditions are noted, duct systems are examined, filters checked, and findings are included in the report.

Your systems may have been "efficient" when installed, but may not be according to recent standards, deferred maintenance, leaky ducts, or other factors.