Energy audits are a valuable tool for homeowners to improve the efficiency of their homes. As we discussed in our Michigan Home Energy Audit – Part 1, they can help reveal problems in your home’s energy efficiency and provide solutions for long-term savings. If you’re interested in evaluating your home based on energy best practices, here are some of the top resources for Michigan best home energy audits:
Consumers Energy
Consumers Energy is a Michigan-based energy company that offers home energy audits through its Home Energy Analysis (HEA) program. The HEA program provides free thermal imaging inspections, which can be used to identify areas where your home is losing heat. If you want to save money on your utility bills and reduce energy usage, you might consider getting a full HEA audit from Consumers Energy. You could also get free upgrades that could save you energy, and up to $150 a year if certain upgrades are installed by March 31st.
DTE Energy
DTE Energy works closely with the EPA and Michigan’s Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act (NREPA) to help reduce your energy costs and protect our environment. Based on your household income, you may qualify for free energy efficiency products and services through the Energy Efficiency Assistance (EEA) program. You can also take advantage of the Residential Energy Assistance Program (REAP) to help pay for energy-related home improvements.
Energy Star
The Energy Star Home Energy Audit is a voluntary partnership between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The program provides consumers with information about energy-efficient products, homes, and plants that save money, protect the environment, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The home energy audit starts with a homeowner interview, where you will learn how to measure your home’s energy use year-round. This includes what kinds of appliances you have, how many people live in your home, and when they heat their water. Any activity that affects your monthly utility bill will be evaluated so you can optimize energy spend and usage. This information helps determine if an improvement project would make sense for you financially.
So…Is Getting a Home Energy Audit Really Worth It?
Home energy audits are a great way to improve the energy efficiency of your home and your bottom line. Audits can help you save money by suggesting upgrades that will lower your utility bills and make it easier for you to use less electricity in the long term. Implementing home audit recommendations can help you save up to 30% on your monthly utility bill. Generally, you can expect to see savings of ~$150 per month––that’s $1,800 per year in extra cash!
It does take some upfront investment—but it won’t take long for those investments to pay off if you’re smart about upgrading your home’s energy efficiency measures.
Interested in getting a head-start on your utility bill savings? Contact our experts at Vinyl Sash of Michigan. Let us help you with your windows and roofing needs today, so you can save on bills tomorrow.
