Energy audits are carried out by energy consultants, they allow for a buildings energy efficiency to be calculated using specialist equipment through a series of tests. These tests will show what upgrades can be made to the building to increase its overall energy efficiency.

The upgrades can be small changes to existing equipment, or they could be larger structural changes. As well as saving energy, once they are completed the upgrades make the building more comfortable to use and save money on its energy bills.

A common test carried out in an energy audit is the blower door test. This measures the air infiltration rate of a building, using the pressure of the room and a flow gauge to show the difference between the inside and outside airflow.

Audit tests can take roughly two to three hours to carry out, and cost between $250 and $650. If an energy audit is set up through a utility company you may be eligible for a rebate.