Transcript:
Making your home more energy-efficient can also make it more comfortable and reduce your utility bills.
But what upgrades will bring you the most benefits? Should you replace the windows? Upgrade the HVAC system? Or isolate your loft?
Brynn Cooksey is the founder of Michigan-based Aerial Doctors Heating and Cooling Company and trading school HVAC U.
He said an energy audit can reveal where your home is wasting energy.
Cookie: “Then you won't guess the repair.”
During the audit, professionals can check your HVAC system, use thermal imaging to see where the heat escapes, or perform blower door tests to find air leakage. They then recommend upgrading and estimate that each upgrade will reduce your energy bill.
In many areas, you can get energy audits for free, or at low cost from a utility or other provider. But Cookie said that even if the full price is the limit, it is worth it.
Cooksey: “Yes, it's an upfront investment, but you'll be even more frustrated if you choose the wrong and do the wrong repair of the home without proper information. So it's easy.”
Over time, recommended repairs can save you a lot of money. Cookie said some of his clients save over $2,000 a year.
Cookie: “As long as that client is at home, they continue to realize the savings. So it really became a real investment.”
Report Credit: Chavobart Digital Media