Comments on: Warmer? Cheaper? Larchmont Victorian Undergoes Energy Audit

By: John Pfeiffer

John Pfeiffer — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 16:11:35 +0000

We generally charge $300-400 for the basic Energy Audit (aka Comprehensive Home Assessment) depending on the size of the house. This includes an exterior and interior inspection, combustion safety tests for the hot water heater and boiler/furnace (Carbon Monoxide, proper draft and efficiency) and a Blower Door test for air infiltration.
Beyond the basic audit there are the following additional services. As each house and situation is different the prices will vary. If the house has a duct system we can do a Duct Blaster test for air leaks. An infra-red thermographic scan can also be done during the Blower Door test when the weather is cold or hot if the AC is running. If you have an AC or heat pump system we can also test that when the weather is a bit warmer.
If you are interested in the incentives from NYSERDA then an audit by a BPI Accredited Contractor and Home Performance with ENERGY STAR Participating Contractor is required by the program. The forthcoming federal program called Home Star (aka “Cash for Caulkers”) will likely have a similar stipulation regarding BPI-Building Performance Institute.
I like to spend time with the clients going over the house with them and showing them where the problems are and how to fix them. It can be fun and very interesting.
Please post any questions or contact me directly.
-John Pfeiffer

By: Judy Silberstein

Judy Silberstein — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 19:39:54 +0000

For a house of this size and complexity, Mr. Pfeiffer typically charges $600 for the audit and the detailed report of results and recommendations.

The homeowners can recoup some or all of that back if they contract with Mr. Pfeiffer for energy improvements. The rate is 10% of the contract fee up to the total cost of the audit. With a $6000 job, the audit is free.

By: robert

robert — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 15:18:45 +0000

Jobs creation legislation being drafted in the US Senate includes billions for energy efficiency measures, such as a home energy efficiency rebate program.

By: Ralph Engel

Ralph Engel — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 03:22:04 +0000

What did the one in the article cost? One can then compare house sizes and, perhaps, get an idea of what to expect.

By: Judy Silberstein

Judy Silberstein — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 03:20:09 +0000

There are all sorts of energy audits with a range of costs depending on the size of the home and how thorough the consultation. Many companies will waive the audit charge if you contract with them for subsequent work.

There may even be government programs – though none in Larchmont at the moment – that subsidize costs for audits.

Mr. Pfeiffer or any other consultant should be able to give you an idea of what the charge would be for your home.

By: Ralph Engel

Ralph Engel — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 03:09:19 +0000

It would be good to get an idea of the range of his charges for doing such an audit. Is it $100 or $1,000–for $100 it would probably be a good idea for many of us to do it, but maybe not for $1,000.