Elm Energy Group – Energy Assessments
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How much does an Energy Assessment Cost?
 
Costs for a typical energy assessment based on buildings up to 2250SF with one centralized HVAC system begin at $475. These assessments are similar to those given through the SCE&G and Georgia Power Utility Rebate programs. There are several types of home energy assessments offered through Elm Energy Group which are also recognized through ASHRAE, Resnet and BPI. Each increasing in depth and detail, along with levels of diagnostic testing used to thoroughly assess the building. Larger spaces, extra HVAC units/systems, special reports, loan documentation, Energy Star Certification, HERS Index Rating, post audit verification, etc. may incur additional charges. Elm Energy Group will promptly call and/or email you with firm pricing based on the information provided to us prior to conducting the on site home/business visit and testing. 
 
Level I: Home Energy Survey (Walk-through - No diagnostic testing)                              
  • Energy Analysis: Consultation with the client to assess their needs and goals for the building, benchmark baseline usage from past energy bills, and discover areas for possible savings.
  • Visual inspection of the building envelope (walls, windows, doors, insulation, and ducts) and condition of each
  • Visual inspection of mechanical equipment, lights and fixtures for type and age of each
  • Visible moisture problems
  • Visible health and safety problems
  • Elm Energy Group Report with energy saving recommendations
  • Typical time in house (1-2 hours)
 
Level II: Building Performance Assessment with Blower door test 
  • Energy Analysis: Consultation with the client to assess their needs and goals for the building, benchmark the baseline usage from past energy bills, and discover areas for possible savings
  • Complete visual inspection of the property/structure, attic, mechanical equipment, lights and fixtures to assess condition and age of each
  • Key points data collection
  • Blower door pressure test with air leakage report
  • Pressure pan testing to determine areas of leakage
  • Thermal camera will be used to help identify air leaks and other issues within the envelope
  • Combustion safety test (if needed)
  • Personalized Elm Energy Group Report with recommended improvements
  • Typical time in house (approx. 3 hours)
 
Level III: Comprehensive Home Energy Assessment with Blower door, Duct Blaster and Thermal Imaging Camera 
  • Energy Analysis: Consultation with the client to assess their needs and goals for the building, benchmark the baseline usage from past energy bills, and discover areas for possible savings
  • Complete visual inspection of the property/structure, attic, mechanical equipment, lights and fixtures to assess condition and age of each
  • Blower Door and Duct Blaster pressure tests with air leakage reports
  • Pressure pan testing to determine areas of leakage
  • Fluke infrared camera testing, which includes digital photographs and thermal images side-by-side on the report for ease of location and identification. The thermal camera will be used to help identify air leaks and other issues within the envelope
  • Custom Elm Energy Group Report which includes custom printed RemRate report with component specific saving recommendations and energy usage graphs plus environmental impact analysis
  • Certified HERS Index rating – your “MPG” sticker for the building
  • Typical time in house (3+ hours)
 
Blower Door Testing: $/hr basis
  • Elm Energy Group conducts a blower door test and air flow rate analysis on your building to help guide you through the air sealing process. Air sealing is one of the most cost-effective and quickest measures you can perform to save energy and increase the comfort of your home. This service does not include a report, but does include documentation of leakage reduction rates.
 
Duct Blaster Testing: $/hr basis
  • Elm Energy Group conducts a blower door and duct blaster tests and air flow rate analysis on your building to help guide you through the air sealing and duct sealing process. Air sealing, along with duct sealing, is one of the most cost-effective and quickest measures you can perform to save energy and increase the comfort of your home. It is estimated that average duct leakage in standard construction is 30%. Energy Star standards require less than 6%. The cost of doing the sealing will yield a quick return on investment, along with an immediate increase in the comfort and indoor air quality of your home. This service does not include a report, but does include documentation of leakage reduction rates.
 
IR Residential Assessment: $/hr basis
  • An Elm Energy Group professional will conduct an infrared audit with you to search for missing insulation, air leaks, and other related building issues in your home. Air leakage detection is normally conducted in cooperation with the blower door assisting with depressurization. This service can include reporting complete with emailed images for your records.
  • Typical time in home (1-2 hours)
 
Energy Star Ratings for New Construction: $795 plus $0.15 per sq. ft.
  • Initial energy consultation and analysis of the design plan
  • Thermal Enclosure Checklist inspection
  • HVAC Quality Installation Rater Checklist
  • Management of all other related checklists
  • Energy Star certification which includes pre- and post-testing
  • Delivery and registration of certification.

*Limit one pre- and post-test. If more tests are needed, charges may be incurred. Price is limited to (1) mechanical system. If more mechanical systems exist, charges may be incurred. If duplicate houses are being built, rates will be discounted (testing remains the same).