One Step Closer to Saving the World

The Center for Resource Conservation here in Boulder is heading up the Residential Energy Audit Program (REAP) for area homeowners. It's an inexpensive way - $100 to $350 - to give your home a check up and help you start saving some cash along the way.

The process is quite simple. First you call the CRC, 303-441-3278 ext. 24, and set up an appointment. They'll ask you a few questions over the phone and have you collect the last years worth of energy bills.

Next, someone comes out and collects a bit more information from you (pre-audit) and a few of the items around your house (hot water heater, air conditioner, etc) and records data from your energy bills. They'll show you a breakdown of how much energy you're using compared to other homes the same size in Colorado and in the nation.

After that, you'll set up an appointment with a home inspection service (technical audit). They'll do the following:

* Blower Door Test (see pic below): the auditor installs a blower door to evaluate and pinpoint areas that may be leaking heated or cooled air through gaps or cracks in your home.
* Building Envelope/Shell: the home's exterior walls, windows, doors, attic, and basement or crawlspace are inspected to identify air leakage points.
* Insulation assessment: the auditor checks insulation levels in attic, walls and crawlspace.
* Heating, Cooling & Hot Water Assessment: the auditor inspects and tests the efficiency and settings of the furnace, boiler, air conditioning and hot water equipment, ducts and pipes.
* Appliance check: the auditor evaluates the efficiency of lighting, refrigerator, clothes dryer, freezer, and other major appliances.


Blower Door Test

And lastly, you'll get a detailed report - along with recommendations.

It's a simple process that puts you one step closer to saving the world (and some cash, too!).

For more info on the REAP program, click here.