According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating and cooling costs comprise approximately 40% of the average American monthly utility bill. Cutting back on HVAC-related costs can not only save you money, but it’s also better for the planet. How can you tell if your home is losing energy? Big Builders in Bakersfield, CA, has some energy efficiency suggestions.
The HERS Index Score
The Home Energy Rating System (HERS) is an energy assessment tool that enables trained inspectors to measure a structure’s energy efficiency. The HERS system is widely used throughout the U.S. HVAC industry and is recognized by federal agencies like the Department of Energy.
Reference homes built to the 2004 International Energy Conservation Code are awarded an energy rating of 100. If your home gets a HERS rating of 130, then it’s 30% less energy efficient than the reference home. If your home gets a HERS rating of 70, then it’s 30%more energy efficient than the reference home.
Professional HERS raters are certified through the nonprofit Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET). The rater will do a thorough inspection of your home and will compare your home’s data with a reference home that’s the same size and shape of the property you own. Big Builders can put you in touch with a reputable HERS assessor who can evaluate the property you own in Bakersfield, Delano, Porterville, or other communities in Kern County.
Improving Your Energy Efficiency
There are many things that the experienced technicians at Big Builders can do that will help you improve the energy efficiency of your home. We can reinforce the insulation inside your basement and attic walls. We can check for energy leaks around your doors, windows, and lighting and plumbing fixtures, too. We can also provide expert maintenance for your HVAC system, which will keep it operating at optimal efficiency. Our company can help you with repairs, installations, and all your other HVAC-related needs. Customer satisfaction is our top priority, so contact Big Builders at our Bakersfield office today to schedule a service call.