Okay, here's a comprehensive home energy assessment checklist, broken down by area and with explanations to help you understand what to look for. Remember to take notes as you go! You can adapt this checklist to suit your home's specifics.

I. General Information & Preparation

• Date of Assessment: (Record the date)


• Address: (Record the address)


• Assessor Name: (Your Name)


• Weather Conditions: (e.g., Sunny, Cloudy, Temperature) - This can affect your observations.


• Occupancy: (Number of people living in the home)


• Age of Home: (Estimate if unknown)


• Square Footage: (Estimate if unknown)


• Number of Stories:


• Basement: (Yes/No/Partial/Finished/Unfinished)


• Crawl Space: (Yes/No/Vented/Unvented)


• Attic: (Yes/No/Finished/Unfinished/Vented/Unvented)


• Heating System Type: (Furnace, Heat Pump, Electric Resistance, Boiler, Other)


• Cooling System Type: (Central AC, Window Units, Ductless Mini-Split, None)


• Water Heating System Type: (Tank, Tankless, Heat Pump Water Heater, Solar)


• Main Fuel Source: (Natural Gas, Propane, Electricity, Oil, Other)


• Gather Recent Energy Bills: (Past 12 months if possible) - This provides a baseline for comparison.


• Safety First: Be careful when inspecting attics, crawl spaces, and around electrical systems. Use proper lighting and wear appropriate safety gear (gloves, mask, eye protection).

II. Exterior Inspection

• Foundation:


• [ ] Cracks or Gaps: (Note location and size) - These can allow air and moisture infiltration.


• [ ] Condition of Caulking/Sealant: (Good/Fair/Poor) - Around windows, doors, and where the foundation meets the siding.


• [ ] Exposed Insulation: (Note location and condition) - Check for damage or deterioration.


• [ ] Proper Grading: (Sloping away from the house is good) - Prevents water from pooling near the foundation.


• [ ] Evidence of Water Damage: (Stains, mildew)


• Walls/Siding:


• [ ] Cracks, Holes, or Damage: (Note location and size)


• [ ] Condition of Siding: (Good/Fair/Poor) - Look for warping, rot, or loose panels.


• [ ] Condition of Paint/Stain: (Good/Fair/Poor) - Peeling or cracking paint can expose the siding to the elements.


• [ ] Gaps Around Windows and Doors: (Note location and size)


• [ ] Check for signs of pests (holes, nests, etc.)


• Roof:


• [ ] Condition of Shingles/Roofing Material: (Good/Fair/Poor) - Look for missing, damaged, or curling shingles.


• [ ] Sagging or Uneven Areas: - Could indicate structural problems or water damage.


• [ ] Condition of Flashing: (Around chimneys, vents, and skylights) - Check for rust or damage.


• [ ] Gutters and Downspouts: (Clean and properly functioning) - Ensure they're draining water away from the foundation.


• [ ] Moss or Algae Growth: (Can indicate moisture problems)


• Windows & Doors:


• [ ] Condition of Frames: (Good/Fair/Poor) - Look for rot, cracks, or warping.


• [ ] Condition of Glazing (Glass): (Good/Fair/Poor) - Look for cracks, broken seals (fogging between panes).


• [ ] Air Leaks: (Feel for drafts around frames) - On a windy day, hold a lit candle or incense stick near the frames to detect air movement.


• [ ] Weatherstripping: (Condition and completeness) - Replace if damaged or missing.


• [ ] Caulking: (Condition and completeness) - Replace if cracked or missing.


• [ ] Door Sweeps: (Condition and proper seal) - Ensure they seal the gap between the door and the threshold.


• [ ] Storm Windows/Doors: (If applicable, condition and proper fit)


• Outdoor Lighting:


• [ ] Type of Bulbs: (Incandescent, LED, CFL) - Consider switching to LEDs for energy savings.


• [ ] Timers/Sensors: (Properly functioning) - Automate outdoor lighting to save energy.

III. Interior Inspection

• Windows & Doors (repeat from exterior, focusing on interior side):


• [ ] Condition of Frames: (Good/Fair/Poor)


• [ ] Condition of Glazing (Glass): (Good/Fair/Poor)


• [ ] Air Leaks: (Feel for drafts around frames)


• [ ] Weatherstripping: (Condition and completeness)


• [ ] Caulking: (Condition and completeness)


• [ ] Curtains/Blinds: (Type and usage) - Can help insulate windows.


• Attic:


• [ ] Insulation Type and Depth: (Measure the depth of the insulation) - Recommended R-value depends on your climate zone.


• [ ] Insulation Coverage: (Complete and even) - Look for gaps or compressed areas.


• [ ] Ventilation: (Adequate intake and exhaust vents) - Prevents moisture buildup and overheating.


• [ ] Air Leaks: (Around chimneys, vents, wiring, and light fixtures) - Seal with caulk or spray foam.


• [ ] Moisture Problems: (Stains, mold, mildew)


• [ ] Pest Infestation: (Evidence of rodents or insects)


• [ ] Recessed Lighting: (IC-rated and properly sealed) - IC-rated fixtures are safe to be in contact with insulation.


• [ ] Ductwork (if present): (Insulated and sealed) - Check for leaks and proper insulation.


• Basement/Crawl Space:


• [ ] Insulation: (Walls and ceiling, type and condition)


• [ ] Ventilation: (Adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup)


• [ ] Moisture Problems: (Stains, mold, mildew, condensation)


• [ ] Air Leaks: (Around foundation walls, windows, and pipes)


• [ ] Rim Joist Insulation: (Properly insulated and sealed) - The rim joist is where the foundation meets the floor framing.


• [ ] Radon Test: (Consider testing for radon) - Especially important in areas known for high radon levels.


• Walls & Ceilings:


• [ ] Insulation: (If accessible, check for insulation) - Difficult to assess without opening walls, but consider thermal imaging.


• [ ] Cracks or Holes: (Note location and size)


• [ ] Moisture Stains: (Indicate leaks or condensation)


• Heating & Cooling Systems:


• [ ] Furnace/Boiler: (Age, condition, last maintenance) - Regular maintenance improves efficiency.


• [ ] Air Conditioner: (Age, condition, last maintenance)


• [ ] Thermostat: (Programmable thermostat installed and used properly) - Can save energy by automatically adjusting temperature settings.


• [ ] Ductwork: (Sealed and insulated) - Check for leaks and proper insulation, especially in unconditioned spaces.


• [ ] Vents: (Unobstructed and clean) - Ensure proper airflow.


• [ ] Air Filters: (Cleanliness) - Dirty filters reduce efficiency and air quality.


• Water Heating System:


• [ ] Water Heater Age: (Check the label)


• [ ] Insulation: (Water heater tank insulated) - Add an insulation blanket to older tanks.


• [ ] Pipe Insulation: (Hot water pipes insulated) - Reduces heat loss.


• [ ] Temperature Setting: (120°F is generally recommended) - Lowering the temperature can save energy and prevent scalding.


• [ ] Leaks: (Check for leaks around the tank and connections)


• Lighting:


• [ ] Type of Bulbs: (Incandescent, LED, CFL) - Replace inefficient bulbs with LEDs.


• [ ] Usage: (How often lights are used)


• Appliances:


• [ ] Age and Energy Efficiency: (Check Energy Star ratings) - Newer appliances are generally more efficient.


• [ ] Refrigerator/Freezer: (Door seals tight, proper temperature settings) - Check that the door seals are clean and sealing properly.


• [ ] Dishwasher: (Energy-efficient settings used)


• [ ] Washing Machine: (Energy-efficient settings used, cold water washing)


• [ ] Dryer: (Lint trap clean, vent properly exhausted) - A clogged lint trap reduces efficiency and can be a fire hazard.


• Electronics:


• [ ] Energy Star Rated: (TVs, computers, etc.)


• [ ] Phantom Loads: (Electronics plugged in but not in use) - Use power strips to easily turn off multiple devices and eliminate phantom loads.


• Air Leaks (Interior):


• [ ] Electrical Outlets and Switch Plates: (Seal with foam gaskets)


• [ ] Plumbing Penetrations: (Seal around pipes)


• [ ] Fireplace: (Damper closes tightly when not in use)


• [ ] Attic Hatch: (Weatherstripped and insulated)

IV. Water Usage

• [ ] Low-Flow Showerheads: (Installed in all showers)


• [ ] Low-Flow Faucets: (Installed in all sinks)


• [ ] Toilets: (High-efficiency or dual-flush)


• [ ] Leaks: (Check for leaky faucets and toilets)


• [ ] Irrigation System: (Efficient watering practices)

V. Recommendations

• Based on your observations, list specific recommendations for energy-saving improvements. Prioritize based on cost-effectiveness and potential savings. For example:


• "Seal air leaks around windows and doors with caulk and weatherstripping."


• "Add insulation to the attic to reach a minimum of R-49."


• "Replace incandescent light bulbs with LEDs."


• "Install a programmable thermostat."


• "Consider replacing the old furnace with a more efficient model."


• Estimate Potential Savings: (If possible, estimate the potential energy and cost savings for each recommendation.)


• Prioritize Actions: (Rank recommendations based on cost, ease of implementation, and potential savings.)

VI. Follow-Up

• Schedule Follow-Up Actions: Create a plan to implement the recommended improvements.


• Track Energy Usage: Monitor energy bills after making changes to see the impact of your efforts.

Tips for a More Effective Assessment:

• Use a Thermal Leak Detector (Infrared Camera): These devices can help you identify areas of heat loss or gain that are not visible to the naked eye. You can often rent them from home improvement stores.


• Perform a Blower Door Test: This test depressurizes your home to exaggerate air leaks, making them easier to find. This usually requires a professional energy auditor.


• Consider a Professional Energy Audit: A professional audit will provide a more detailed assessment and specific recommendations tailored to your home. They may also be able to help you qualify for rebates and incentives.

This is a comprehensive checklist. You may not be able to complete every item, but the more thorough you are, the better you'll understand your home's energy performance and identify opportunities for improvement. Good luck!