ABSTRACT

In order to obtain the desired energy use and cost savings from any weatherization project implementation, it is essential that the energy audit be well carried out using proven and sound methodology. Without a good approach for the energy audit, it is di—cult to achieve the expected energy savings even a¬er good implementation of all the retro‘t recommendations for the weatherization project. Several problems have been identi-‘ed for conducting energy audits of buildings, including residential dwellings (Shapiro, 2011). ˜e common problem areas include:

1. Poor description of building energy systems: For residential buildings, it is important to describe the thermal performance of the shell, including wall and roof insulation level, in‘ltration rate, and window type. Moreover, a basic description is needed for the electrical systems, including the lighting ‘xtures, plug loads, and appliances, as well as for the heating and cooling systems, including motor types and control strategies. A walkthrough audit of the building should help the energy auditor identify most, if not all, the basic features of the desired energy systems.