Energy Audits
Sundogs Solutions offers 2 levels of Building Performance Services:
1. Energy Audit / Building Performance Assessment
Summary
Cost: $350
Duration: 4-6 hours
Complexity: Med – High
This service is more than simply an energy audit. It is a comprehensive approach to evaluating how well a building is performing, including energy use, moisture management, water use and indoor air quality. The analysis typically takes half a day and involves inspecting and testing various building components from the crawl space to the attic and everything in between.
The resulting report provides the owner with a detailed view of how well the home is performing and a prioritized list of recommended improvements. This allows customers to determine the most effective way to improve the building’s energy efficiency and address any air quality issues or other building concerns.
During a Building Performance Audit, a Sundogs Solutions technician will use specialized instruments and software to evaluate these components and build a comprehensive view of how well the building is performing. These may include:
- Blower door fan to test for air leaks in the home
- Pressure pan or duct blaster fan to test for air leaks in the ducts
- Flow hood to test ventilation equipment
- Hygrometer and moisture meter to test for high humidity levels and moisture infiltration
- Thermal imaging camera to identify any unexpected thermal losses
- Carbon monoxide meter to test for the infiltration of unwanted combustion byproducts
- Combustible gas tester to test for any gas leaks
In addition to using these instruments, the auditor will visually inspect the entire building both inside and out including the crawl space and attic. During this inspection, he or she will take note of insulation levels, water fixtures and the integrity of the building components. Once collected, all the information is entered into a detailed report which is then reviewed with the customer.
See our Gallery for more thermal images, demonstrating common performance issues.
The Building Performance Report
The report provided to the customer is a valuable tool in understanding the building dynamics and in maintaining a healthy and efficient environment for its occupants. Understanding the good and bad allows customers to make informed decisions and where to prioritize resources when considering maintenance, repairs or upgrades. The report provides quantitative results which allow you to compare similar size and age structures and provides a prioritized list of projects that will directly impact performance.
While some projects can be completed by most customers, others require skilled professionals to complete the job safely and accurately. In most cases however, customers do not have the time or the inclination to address these issues. Rather than abandoning customers to fend for themselves, Sundogs Solutions provides our clients with the option to work with a single source for most projects including energy upgrades, renovations, and can provide estimates for any work needed. We also partner with local experts in HVAC, electrical and plumbing, so can facilitate packaged solutions.
2. Advanced Building Performance Analysis and Modeling
Summary
Cost: $450 + $0.10 per sq-ft above 2,000
Duration: 1 day+
Complexity: High
When customers are considering extensive renovations or energy upgrades, particularly if they are seeking a “green certification” for their improvements, more detailed diagnostics are required. The Advanced Building Performance services offered by Sundogs Solutions include careful measurement of all the building envelope components. The data analysis and modeling is assisted by energy software, such as REM Rate.
