An energy audit generates a lot of data. Here's how to turn it into an actual action plan rather than a report that sits in a drawer.
Blower door test results: air leakage in context
The blower door test measures how much air moves through your home's envelope, typically reported in air changes per hour (ACH) — the report should compare your result against a target range for homes of similar age and size, not just give a raw number without context.
Insulation assessment: where the gaps actually are
Infrared imaging during an audit often reveals specific problem areas (attic gaps, uninsulated wall sections) rather than a blanket "needs more insulation" — prioritize the specific locations identified, since targeted fixes are usually more cost-effective than blanket whole-home insulation upgrades.
Appliance and system efficiency notes
Auditors often flag aging or inefficient major systems (HVAC, water heater) as part of the report — cross-reference any flagged appliances against our specific running-cost calculators (like the heat pump comparison) to quantify the actual savings potential of a suggested upgrade.
Prioritize by cost-effectiveness, not just the order listed
Reports don't always list recommendations in order of value — air sealing and insulation upgrades are frequently the most cost-effective starting point before considering major equipment replacement, since a leaky, poorly insulated home wastes the benefit of an efficient furnace or AC anyway.
Use it to inform, not replace, your solar sizing
If you're planning solar, addressing major efficiency issues first can reduce your target system size and cost — an audit's findings are worth incorporating into your usage assumptions before finalizing solar sizing with the solar panel calculator.
Frequently asked questions
Should I get an energy audit before or after installing solar?
Before is generally recommended — addressing major efficiency issues first can reduce your actual usage and therefore the solar system size needed, potentially saving money on the solar installation itself.
How much does a professional home energy audit typically cost?
It varies by provider and region, and many utilities offer free or heavily subsidized audits — check your specific utility's program before assuming you need to pay full price for a private audit.