Having a home energy audit can help you figure out exactly where you are wasting energy and losing money in your house. During an audit, a professional will spend several hours going over your home, testing it for leaks and checking the insulation. The auditor can suggest ways to make your house more energy efficient.
If you decide to have your home analyzed, here are a few tips from the U.S. Department of Energy's Web site (www.energysavers.gov), which also has other good information on staying warm and saving money.
To prepare for the energy audit:
• Check references in advance, just as you would with any contractor.
• Make a list of existing problems such as drafty rooms or condensation on windows.
• Have available copies of your energy bills from the past year.
• Talk to your family about their energy issues and questions so you can use the opportunity to speak to an expert about solutions.
