Step 2: Assessment

Standard Assessment Process
Assessments for homes participating in the HELP program are performed by prequalified Building Envelope Analysts. The standard home energy assessment typically consists of a visual analysis and testing to determine air leakage, combustion safety, equipment efficiency, insulation levels and condition. As part of the HELP program, participating contractors will provide homeowners with a comprehensive report that includes recommended improvements, estimated cost for improvements, and estimated cost of savings. The report can help homeowners educate themselves on the condition of their home and prioritize energy efficient improvements, which can be made all at once or over time.

Test-Outs
Test-outs for homes participating in the HELP program are performed after improvements are made to ensure that work has been completed according to BPI standards. Test-outs include a visual inspection, combustion testing, and air leakage measurements to determine the quality and effectiveness of the work provided. Test-outs are performed by qualified Building Analysts and findings are summarized and a report provided to the homeowner. 
Blower Door Testing
  • The test places a home under a known pressure and measures how much airflow is required to maintain the pressure difference between indoors and outdoors.
  • The tighter the house, the less air the blower door must move to maintain a given pressure.
  • Besides measuring the air-tightness of the house, it also helps to pinpoint the location of air leaks.
Blower testing on door
Combustion Safety Testing
  • A gas combustion appliance is tested for efficiency using a combustion analyzer. For energy efficient purposes, the efficiency reading should be at least 80%.
  • An appliance that is performing at less than 80% should be looked at by a qualified professional to determine if a tune up is necessary or if the unit should be replaced.
  • Carbon monoxide levels of less than 26 ppm are acceptable. If the carbon monoxide reading is between 26 ppm and 100 ppm a service call should be made to correct the carbon monoxide problem. If the carbon monoxide levels are over 100 ppm, then the unit should be repaired immediately by a qualified professional.
Combustion analyzer