4 Easy Steps of the Home Energy Tune-uP^® Process

First, we look for the areas that use and potentially waste energy. The energy audit incluides measurements so your home can be accurately modeled by the Home Energy Tune-uP^® software. Data is gathered about your heating system, air conditioning system , all windows and exterior doors, plumbing system, insulation, appliances and other items that use energy. To help evaluate insulation and reveal air leaks we do an thermal infrared scan during this first step.

Second, the information gathered during the first step of the home energy audit is analyzed using specialized software. This analysis takes into account regional variables such as local weather, implementation costs, and fuel prices. The result is a comprehensive Home Energy Tune-uP^® Report. Over 1000 calculations are performed by the software to model the energy performance of your home.

The Home Energy Tune-uP^® Report shows the energy efficiency improvements that reduce energy use (costs) and help make your home more comfortable. The Home Energy Tune-uP^® Report projects expected energy savings, estimated implementation costs and payback time for each item. The report also groups all the improvements that, if financed, save more on your energy bills then they cost.

Download and View a Sample Home Energy TuneuP^®

The detailed Recommendations in the Home Energy Tune-uP^® Report is an advantage when discussing your project with local contractors. Getting quotes from local contractors will be easier using the detailed recommendations as an outline that clearly defines the project. It also explains how to get the best energy savings from these improvements by listing related no-cost and low-cost measures that you can take yourself to reduce your energy use.

The report provides access to a database of contractors, access to information on other energy saving products, and makes you aware of other services that are available. Finding a good contractor is hard to do. Depending on where you live we may be able to refer you to a specialist.

Local utilities may offer rebates on appliances, heating systems, AC systems, water heaters, and programmable thermostats. Please contact your local utility company for information on these programs before upgrading.

Many energy improvements are unique because while reducing your energy bills they can increase your disposable income even as you pay for the improvements.

Financing energy efficiency improvements in your home mortgage can be an excellent way to go. You have the advantage of (1) low monthly payments due to a 30-year term and a relatively low interest rate; and (2) interest that is deductible from your income tax.

The improvements listed in the Improvements that Save More than they Cost section of the Home Energy Tune-uP® Report will generally qualify for financing since they increase the value of the house without reducing your disposable income.

• The FHA Streamlined (k) Limited Repair Program is intended to facilitate uncomplicated rehabilitation and/or improvements to a home for which plans, consultants, engineers and/or architects are not required.
• The Streamlined (k) program includes the following energy efficiency improvements:
• Upgrade of heating/cooling systems and water heaters
• Weatherization, including insulation, seal-up and window replacement
• Purchase and installation of appliances, including refrigerators, freezers, and washers/dryers
• It has no minimum repair cost threshold
• It has a maximum mortgage amount for repair costs of $35,000
• It can be issued by any FHA lender
• It does not require a rating
• See HUD Mortgagee Letter 2005-50 for details of the program
• The unsecured Fannie Mae Energy Loan for $1,000 to $20,000 is available from a few lenders. The Energy Loan’s 10-year term and interest rates are generally better than those offered by contractors or suppliers, though not as good as the Streamlined (K).
• Some electric or gas utilities offer financing for energy efficiency improvements, as well as rebates for energy efficient appliances and heating and cooling systems. Check your utilities' website for more information about financing and rebates that may be available. See the Energy Star Rebate Locator