How do I know if my house is energy efficient?

How do I know if my house is energy efficient?

1. Energy Audit: Hire a professional to conduct a comprehensive energy audit. They will assess your home’s energy use and identify areas for improvement. 
2. Review Energy Bills: Analyze your utility bills over the past year. Look for patterns in energy consumption. A sudden spike might indicate inefficiencies. 
3. Check Insulation: Inspect your home’s insulation in the attic, walls, and floors. Good insulation helps maintain indoor temperature and reduces energy use. 
4. Look for Air Leaks: Check for drafts around windows, doors, and other openings. You can use a candle or incense stick to spot air leaks. 
5. Evaluate Windows: Assess the performance of your windows. Double or triple-pane windows with low-E coatings are more energy-efficient than single-pane windows. 
6. Inspect HVAC Systems: Examine your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Ensure they are properly sized, well-maintained, and energy-efficient. 
7. Lighting: Replace incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED bulbs. Check for the presence of natural light sources, which can reduce lighting needs. 
8. Appliance Efficiency: Look for ENERGY STAR labels on appliances. Upgrading to energy-efficient models can significantly reduce energy consumption. 
9. Smart Technology: Consider installing smart thermostats or energy monitors to optimize your energy usage based on occupancy patterns. 
10. Thermal Imaging: Use a thermal imaging camera (or hire someone who can) to identify areas of heat loss in your home. 
11. Feedback from Occupants: Gather input from family members about comfort levels, such as temperature fluctuations or draftiness, which can indicate inefficiencies.