Energy Audit Services
First Step
The first step in a typical energy project is an Energy Audit. The goal of the audit is to get a big picture understanding of the current energy usage so that prioritized energy project recommendations can be made (typically called EEM's or Energy Efficiency Measures). The audit seeks to understand what systems are in use, what are the primary fuels, how much energy each system is using, whether the systems are in good repair and operating efficiently, etc. Intelligent decisions can then be made on which systems to repair, upgrade, replace or add.
ZEA Energy Audit
ZEA has performed many, many energy audits, and every one is different. This is not a one-size-fits-all cookie-cutter template driven approach. We offer a customized audit performed by trained, experienced, accredited energy professionals. We strive to understand your energy goals (the interview), then understand your current energy situation (the audit), then recommend the best path to get you from here to there (the prioritized EEM's).
Since each audit is unique depending on the building, occupants and goals, ZEA offers a customizable array of energy audit services including:
- Owner/Occupant interviews
- Energy bill disaggregation
- HVAC duct testing (duct blaster)
- HVAC system performance
- Window glazing
- Building envelope (blower door)
- Insulation levels
- Solar siting (access, orientation and insolation)
The outcome of the Energy Audit is a prioritized list of Energy projects, often called EEM's, or Energy Efficiency Measures. This list is variable and depends on the type of building, the occupants, usage patterns, types of energy used, budget constraints, etc. Typically, Energy Efficiency measures such as simple lighting retrofits, building envelope sealing, additional insulation and old appliance upgrades will top the list for value and budgeting purposes. Solar PV, Solar Thermal, HVAC and Zero Energy projects will typically come after the efficiency work has been done, which not only saves energy, but lowers the overall cost of the project since the solar and HVAC system sizes can be reduced.
Energy Upgrade California Participating Contractor
ZEA is a participating contractor with Energy Upgrade California, a performance based incentive that can help minimize your overall project costs.
Learn more about Energy Upgrade California here.
Take the First Step
Interested in reducing your environmental and carbon footprint? Saving money on utility bills? Lowering greenhouse gas emissions? Increasing American Energy Independence? Reducing resource and fossil-fuel consumption?