Howdy,

Does anyone have experience with a firm that provides energy audits for homes? After this cold winter and watching the gas bill tick up I'd like to see what we can do in the way of making our old drafty house more energy efficient. Before I shell out big bucks for spray-in insulation or new windows and door seals, I'd like to see where we can get the most bang for the buck.

I'd appreciate hearing about experiences you've had with folks who you've used. As a Bryan-ite, I can't leverage CS Utilities' free energy audit offer.

Thanks

http://rb.gy/urrqtz
is a search start.
Frustrating I know.

Used to be that BTU would give at least free Blower Door tests, on their schedule - not yours in-the-day.
This can be a simple DIY, even without the pressure equipment gages. Some used bee hive smokes, others colored smoke bombs in suspect areas, e.g. fenestration, ducts, other.

The thermal heat loss imaging/detectors might not cost as much as DIY as an expert team visit.
These range from simple temperature laser guns the HVAC guys use at return air & supply grills + other uses.
Amazon sells a $600 thermal image gun and we can get more detailed equipment as well.

Sometimes a city inspector might moonlight his services out of city juristiction; I can only guess this might apply to those in the energy department?
Lastly, some top notch home inspectors can give pointers during their hire.

The bottom line will always suggest
1. more/better attic insulation of ANY type
2. sealing ductwork, then insulating over it
3. seal off all air infiltration
THEN the big money is called if all that falls short
1. replacement windows with high-R values
2. foaming the rafters
3. new gyp.bd over insulation board on interior walls with an exterior face
4. super efficient, variable speed new HVAC
5. evergreens that shade windows & HVAC, at least from rising/setting suns

Another opinion: The Money Pit radio show.