How an energy audit puts pounds in your pocket

In this two-minute read, we look at energy audits and why they’re worthwhile.

What is an energy audit?

An energy audit is a thorough assessment usually conducted by qualified professionals to evaluate your property’s energy usage and efficiency. 

It involves analysing insulation, heating, lighting, appliances and other factors to identify opportunities for energy-saving improvements, ultimately reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills.

Why should I pay attention to them?

Sustainability and energy efficiency are becoming increasingly important factors in the property market.

An energy audit can provide financial and environmental benefits while enhancing your property’s appeal to potential buyers or tenants.

Understanding the energy audit

A professional auditor uses various tests, including thermographic scans and blower door tests, to identify areas of energy waste. These can include poorly insulated walls, draughty windows or inefficient appliances.

Significant savings on energy bills

The potential savings on energy bills are one of the main reasons homeowners get them done. An audit can help you identify ways to use less heating in winter or how to cool your home more efficiently in summer. By implementing the suggestions given in an audit, you can reduce your energy bills by up to 20-30%, according to the Energy Saving Trust.

Environmental benefits

The environmental benefits are equally important. Reducing your energy consumption also reduces your carbon footprint. As people become more environmentally conscious, energy-efficient homes are increasingly in demand in the property market.

Increased property value

An energy audit can increase your property’s value. Prospective buyers are becoming more savvy about long-term running costs and the environmental impact of their homes. A home with a good energy rating, proven by an audit, can command a higher price than one without. In fact, according to a study by the UK government, improving your property’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) from band D to B can add more than £16,000 to the sale price.

So maybe we need to think of it as not just being an assessment – it’s an investment. 

If this sounds like something you want to know more about, visit the Act on Energy website, which has much more information about audits and energy-related tips. 

https://www.actonenergy.org.uk/what-we-do/technical-services/energy-audits/