Audits for Existing Homes

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While we try and provide some customization in putting together an energy audit for a homeowner, we have tried to outline three levels of audits so that people can budget appropriately:

A level 1 audit typically includes walkthrough and visual inspection of key existing conditions. At the completion of the audit, the homeowner will be given a menu of possible improvements and recommendations. We often recommend this is as the place to start. Often, the problems you are experiencing can be visually identified without any diagnostic work being done.

A level 2 audit typically includes a Level 1 Audit plus diagnostic testing using a blower door and duct blaster to measure airtightness of the ductwork and building envelope. This can be useful for the do-it-yourselfer or for homeowners who would like to have diagnostics performed prior to scheduling air sealing work. Documentation given to the homeowner will also include the test results with a short guide on how to interpret them.

A level 3 audit typically includes walkthrough and visual inspection of existing conditions, including measurements of existing building surfaces, and computer energy modeling. The homeowner will receive recommendations and a menu of possible improvements, as well as a Home Energy Rating Certificate for the home, with estimated energy usage and carbon emissions. The documentation for this level of audit can include cost payback analysis for improvements and information necessary for energy efficient mortgage programs.

Thermography: Thermal imaging can be added to any of the above packages for an additional fee. Thermal imaging can be useful to visually identify defects in insulation performance, other building components that contribute to heat loss, and can sometimes show routes of moisture entry and help diagnose the extent of moisture problems. The thermography package includes a report that contains your photos and a brief description of what is being shown in each.

We do understand that each house is unique and different combinations of tests and inspections may be necessary to identify specific problems – we are more than happy to tailor our approach to your needs and/or budget.

Absolutely not! We have a large network of qualified professionals we work with who can assist you with any energy-related improvement projects you may want to tackle after having an energy audit done. As a third-party consultant, we have no issues with making multiple recommendations so that you can get competetive prices, getting the most for your money.


About Us

Headquartered in Asheville, NC, VandeMusser Design provides technical consulting and certification services for green residential construction to builders, architects, developers, and homeowners in Western North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, South Carolina and Georgia.

Contact Us

Vandemusser Design, PLLC

26 Crabapple Lane
Asheville, NC 28804
P (828)348-4723
F (828)253-8347
E info@vandemusser.com