Energy Audits
Faced with rising energy prices, many homeowners and building owners are turning to energy auditing as a way to decrease their utility costs. The auditing process inspects for problem areas in building structure and/or system operation and suggests solutions for reducing consumption of electricity, gas, and water.
The auditing process often begins prior to a site visit with a review of utility bills for any red-flag indicators. A field visit is then made to collect detailed facility operation information and to inspect building construction and equipment. Measurement tools such as combustion efficiency test kits, manometers, infrared cameras, and blower doors are used to assess equipment efficiency and air-tightness. Auditors also solicit information directly from individuals who live or work in the building.
Once field data are collected, the auditor creates an energy simulation model and uses the model to quantify the potential energy savings for a series of recommended energy conservation measures.
SWA’s recommendations are based on inspection, performance-testing, utility usage history, data analysis, and energy modeling. Each project is different, because each building and client is different. SWA’s staff works to find the best approach for each situation. Using this information, building owners and managers can select the most appropriate measures to improve occupant comfort, health, and safety while simultaneously reducing energy costs.
Projects:
Manna
Improving the built environment through research, sustainable design and technology. © 2008 Steven Winter Associates, Inc.