eNERCON TIPS: Energy Audit? Do It Yourself

       Are we concerned on our environment? Do you mind of your energy consumption?  If no, then we should start learning and doing things that would help ourselves and the environment.

            Do you know what part of your house consume most energy? If not, then you should hire a professional energy auditor. But what is really an energy audit? 

An energy audit is an inspection, survey and analysis of energy flows for energy conservation in a building, process or system to reduce the amount of energy input into the system without negatively affecting the output(s).

             We may think of an additional cost if we hire an energy auditor. So, worry no more for there is a cost- effective way of doing it. All you have to do is to follow the do-it-yourself (DIY) energy assessment tips: 

• Check the insulation in your attic, and basement walls, ceilings, floors, and crawl spaces. Improving your home’s insulation is the fastest way to cut on your energy waste. For best results when you insulate your home, consider factors such as climate, home design, and budget. If you intended to to install insulation yourself, be sure to follow manufacturer’s installation instructions and wear the proper protective gear.

• Check for air leaks around your walls, ceilings, windows, door, light and plumbing fixtures, switches, and electrical outlets. Before you insulate your house, be sure to seal air leaks because insulating materials will not block leaks.

• Take time to study your family member’s lighting needs and make use of controls- like sensors, dimmers, or timers- to reduce lighting use when necessary.

• Check if your refrigerator is already overworked. Over time, it will experience wear and tear in the door’s rubber gasket, build-up dirt and dust on coils, thus eroding its efficiency and making it more expensive to operate.

• Check the insulation of your witches and outlets. To know if there’s a leak, remove the plate and cover the opening with a ply of tissue affixed t the wall at the top of the painter’s tape. If the tissue billows, it is likely that there is a leakage. If so, immediately insulate the opening with a precut foam gasket.

•  Properly maintain your appliances as well as heating and cooling systems. Be sure to read the corresponding owner’s manuals for recommended maintenance.

          By following these tips, we may consume our energy effectively and efficiently that will enable us save money and we will become a concerned citizen that cares for environment.

"BE CONCERN, CONSERVE ENERGY!"

Sources: 

• http://energy.gov
• http://www.thisoldhouse.com/
• Consumer Welfare Division - Department of Trade and Industry Davao del Norte Provincial Office

Published by the Knowlegde Management and Infomation System Service (KMIS) for the DTI ENERCON Management Team in support of the National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Program.

If you have Enercon tips to share, othe suggestions or requested topics, please email at  publications@dti.gov.ph