H.E.R.S. Ratings Frequently Asked Questions
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a home energy audit cost?
Please call us at 505.385.8838 or email us and we will be happy to provide an estimate for you

Is replacing windows the best thing to do to increase a homes efficiency?
Yes and no. Due to the cost of replacing windows we look at other strategies for lowering your utility bill first. If you have a large budget and old aluminum frame, single pane windows than they can be a worthwhile investment. We suggest asking us to look into payback time of any such large investments before you go through with them however.

What are the main benefits to controlling are leakage into my home?

  • Save energy
  • Increase comfort
  • Protect insulation’s thermal integrity
  • Reduce direct heating or cooling of people and building components by outdoor air
  • Avoid moisture migration into building cavities
  • Reduce vermin’s access to indoors
  • Reduce flow of air pollution from external sources

More helpful tips to reduce energy usage in your home:

  • Check window and door weatherstripping regularly to make sure it is intact
  • Use LED lighting when possible (holiday lighting for instance)
  • Install motion sensors on exterior lighting
  • Reduce thermostats to 68 in the winter and raise to 78 during the summer
  • Take advantage of the sun. Open south facing window drapes during the winter, as well as west facing drapes during the afternoon
  • Close east facing drapes during the morning and west facing drapes during the afternoon in the summer months
  • Turn water heater down to 120 degrees
  • Change furnace filters every three months and every month in the winter
  • Install compact fluorescent lights
  • Install programmable thermostats
  • Close fireplace dampers when fireplace is not in use
  • Insulate hot water pipes in basements and crawlspaces
  • Have a professional tune your heating equipment each fall
  • Wash clothes in cold water