Perhaps one of the biggest mistakes in energy auditing is selecting an inappropriate audit scope. Before performing the audit, managers must ensure the audit's level of detail matches the goals and desired objectives. Managers also must not underestimate the time requirements to perform the audit or the estimate of when the organization can realize energy savings. Depending on the availability of historical building information — utility bills, construction dates, etc. — performing data collection and required calculations can take a month or more, depending on the level of detail.
By establishing an appropriate scope, collecting and compiling preliminary data, and objectively prioritizing and implementing recommended projects, managers have laid a framework to ensure an energy audit will succeed.
David Cosaboon is a staff engineer at Facility Engineering Associates in Fairfax, Va. His area of expertise is HVAC and fluid mechanics. He has performed energy-consulting services for such clients as Jones Lang LaSalle, the National Education Association, and the National Parks Service.
Energy Audits Can Reveal Opportunities for Energy Savings
Energy Audits: Setting The Stage
Energy Audits: Avoiding Mistakes
