How Energy Research Group Works

Energy Research Group investigates and determines the energy rating of properties through an energy audit, and then makes recommendations for those homeowners who want to optimize their home’s energy performance.  Nine factors are taken into consideration when testing: insulation, mechanical, square footage, leakage, local climate, duct-work, windows, building orientation, and volume. From these factors a scientific analysis is generated that takes into account statistical variables such as sample size, variance, and error terms.

A home energy audit is the first step to assess how much energy your home consumes and to evaluate what measures you can take to make your home more energy efficient. An audit will show you problems that may, when corrected, save you significant amounts of money over time. During the audit, you can pinpoint where your house is losing energy.  ERG was formed with one purpose in mind: to cut fuel cost on residential homes. ERG is committed to improving energy efficiency in new and existing homes. We provide the expertise in which homeowners, builders and others can determine home energy efficiency and the most effective steps to be taken to improve energy use.  ERG investigates by using infrared technology and pressure testing to determine the energy rating of properties and then makes recommendations for homeowners who want their home to be as efficient as possible. We help homeowners find ways to improve their home's energy efficiency performance.

ERG continually updates their guidelines and cross references materials to keep up to the minute on industry practices and related technologies. In addition ERG is highly trained and has an experienced technical staff that is available to respond to homeowners' questions and help determine best practices related to home energy rating and energy efficiency.

What do I get as a homeowner for letting you use my home?

First your home is pressurized to show all energy leaks.  Attic insulation is added to R-40, insulation plates are added to outside walls, weather stripping is added to all doors, and programmable thermostats are installed.  These items are part of the study and are not charged to homeowner.  These items are the key to the success of the study.  All homes must be on a level playing field.  You should save 50% on your energy bills for the rest of your life when the process is complete.  That is like receiving a check for your participation for $20,400.  This based on an average savings of $85 a month for 20 years.  With rising gas prices, this is a very conservative number.