How is this program funded?

• Through a combination of federal stimulus dollars being offered through Spokane County, the City of Spokane and the City of Spokane Valley as well as Avista Utilities energy efficiency funds, the cost of the audits will be significantly reduced. The price of the audit will vary depending on the customer’s specific geographic location, and who their electric utility is as well as what the primary heat source is.

How much is an audit?

• The approximate value of the home energy audit is $400.00 - $500.00. Avista electricity customers who live in specific parts of Spokane County that heat with either Avista electric or Avista natural gas will pay as low as $99.00 for this service. All customers who participate in this program will receive a weatherization kit which contains a variety of materials, such as weather strip, and low flow shower heads,  that will help the customer get started on a the way to a more efficient and comfortable home.

Why is this program only available to the residents of Spokane County?

• Typically a pilot program is started on a small scale and, if successful, expanded into larger areas. Spokane County was chosen based on its size, population density and availability of trained home auditors. In addition three local Spokane based governments made federal/state stimulus funds available through their Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grants. If successful the program may be expanded throughout the Avista service area.

Why should I get an audit?

• Do you have a drafty home, rooms that are too hot or too cold and high energy bills, if so you may benefit from an audit?

What is an ice dam and how do they form?

• Ice dams form when the snow on the roof melts and re-freezes, and the ice backs its way under the roof shingles. Further melting can occur at this point, causing water leaks and damage. A major reason for ice melting on the roof is warm air from the home leaking into the attic, moving past the insulation and warming the underside of the roof. This can happen even when there are thick amounts of insulation in your attic, if the warm air is allowed to by-pass the insulation via air gaps and leaks between the attic and heated living spaces below. This means insulation alone is not always enough to correct the problem. Stopping air leaks combined with proper insulation and ventilation are the three major components required to remedy this problem. A BPI Accredited Home Performance Contractor using special testing equipment, such as a blower door, is a proven way to locate and measure air leakage in your home. Often times the air leakage component is missed because conventional contractors are not performing blower door diagnostics

Can a programmable thermostat help lower my energy use?

• Properly controlling a thermostat can help reduce your heating and cooling costs. Programmable thermostats can automatically adjust the temperature at pre-determined times while the homeowner is away from the house or sleeping. Residents enjoy greater comfort conveniently,
  without wasting time or energy. However, only a whole house approach can result in maximum energy savings

Why is insulation important?

• Whether a home is old or new, inadequate or improperly installed insulation can lead to high
  energy costs, uncomfortable rooms and structural problems. Proper insulation levels slow the
  movement of heat through your walls, floors and ceilings, keeping you warmer in the winter,
  cooler in the summer.

Why is ventilation important?

• Ventilation is a vital component to every house. Ventilation systems are important for healthy,
  safe, and comfortable living space. These systems help remove moisture from the air to help
  avoid mold, mildew and condensation problems. Ventilation also helps eliminate potential
  indoor air pollutants, cooking odors or stale, stuffy air. A house has to “breathe” and proper
  ventilation can help ensure your home has a steady, healthy amount of fresh air

Why is air sealing important?

• Insulation alone is not always enough to make sure your home is energy efficient. Stopping air
  leaks combined with proper insulation and ventilation are the three major components required
  to ensure a home is tight while providing a sufficient supply of fresh air.

Are the condition of doors and windows important?

• It’s important to have well-insulated, high-performance windows and doors. Homeowners will
  see and feel the difference through improved comfort, reduced condensation and lower energy use. Look for the ENERGY STAR symbol to identify the most efficient windows, skylights,
  and sliding glass doors.

Why is health and safety testing important?

• Inspecting and testing combustion appliances such as heating equipment, ovens and water heaters for proper performance are important to ensure safe operation. This evaluation includes measurement of carbon monoxide (CO) produced by the appliance and testing to ensure that potentially dangerous combustion gases are properly vented and not introduced into the home's living space.

What should I look for when buying new appliances?

• When it’s time to buy or replace home appliances, be sure to look for models with the ENERGY
  STAR. ENERGY STAR qualified appliances incorporate advanced technologies that use 10-
  50% less energy than standard models, saving you money on utility bills.

How can I improve the lighting in my home?

• When replacing light bulbs or installing new light fixtures, consumers will save time and money
  when they choose models that have earned the ENERGY STAR. According to the U.S.
  Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), today’s ENERGY STAR qualified compact
  fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) equal or surpass the quality of light found in conventional
  incandescent bulbs. CFLs use two-thirds less energy and last up to 10 times longer. ENERGY
  STAR qualified lighting and fixtures are available in a variety of styles and sizes

See if you are eligible for this pilot program and how much you can expect to pay for a home audit.