The Home Energy Saver is designed to help homeowners identify the best ways to save energy in their homes, and find the resources to make the savings happen. The project is part of the national ENERGY STAR Program for improving energy efficiency in homes.
Users can estimate how much energy and money can be saved and the amount of CO2 emissions reduced by using the suggested energy-efficiency improvements.
1. Basics
All end uses (heating, cooling, major appliances, lighting, etc.) are included. A detailed description of underlaying calculation methods and data is provided in a series of specials reports. The findings are based on a detailed description of the home provided by the user. Users begin the process entering their zip code, and in turn receive their initial estimates. Providing more information about the home gets the user customized results along with energy-saving upgrade recommendations.2. Starting the Calculator
On the first page of the site, you are asked to enter your zip code. After doing so, the calculator takes you to a general information page regarding your climate area, the average yearly cost to power a home, and the average yearly cost for an efficient home in the area. It is further broken down by the cost of: heating, cooling, water heating, major3. Refining Your Results
You can refine your calculation even further in categories such as: the year the house was built, the efficiency level you are aiming for, types of insulation and its thickness, the direction the house faces, how many windows on each side of the house, and a host of others that can help you achieve the most comprehensive results possible. The more information you provide in the optional refinements, the much more accurate your final reports will be. This will help you maximize your savings.4. Refinements Continued
After clicking on "Save Answers" you are brought to another page where you have the option of calculating your results, or further refining you calculation by appliance, exterior shading, types of lighting and fixtures, and other options. Again, the more time you spend inputting data tailored to your individual house, the more accurate your final report. Once you update an individual section, you are given the option to save the session. Do this and then click on the calculate button.5. Your Results
It takes a few moments to calculate your results. Make sure to make a note of your session number in and keep it on hand for later use. Once the calculator finishes, you are presented with three tables. The first two break down the estimated cost of your home's energy use currently, and the estimated cost after upgrades. The third table shows you a difference between the two costs, the difference in KW per hour, and the amount of CO2 emissions saved in pounds. Now click "View Upgrade Report".6. The Upgrade Report
The Upgrade Report breaks down each upgrade that you can make to save energy in your home. The Economic Benefits section explains: the estimated annual savings, estimated lifetime savings, the upgrade cost, the return on investment, and how long it takes for the upgrade to pay for itself. The report also lists additional benefits, purchasing tips, and a description of the upgrade.
