Cotton Electric Cooperative provides free energy efficiency evaluations for members to help them decide the most economical ways to improve their home’s energy-efficiency.

Performed by the co-op’s energy efficiency coordinator, an evaluation consists of a thorough inspection of your home's foundation, floors, walls, doors, windows and attic, and careful measurements of your home's insulating factor and heat loss areas, such as doors and windows. If you are planning on adding on to your home, building a new one, or adding new air conditioning or heating equipment, your cooperative's energy efficiency coordinator can visit with you one-on-one to discuss the energy saving improvements best suited for your home.

After conducting an on-site evaluation, a specially-designed computer program calculates how energy improvements, such as adding insulation and a more efficient heating and cooling system, can reduce kilowatt hour waste and save you significant amounts of money over time.

A thorough explanation of the results is returned to the member, which will address the energy saving improvements best suited for your home.

Blower Door/Duct Blaster Test

Another type of evaluation that is more technical and precise is a blower door test. The device confirms the air tightness of a home by drawing out the air with a massive fan mounted on an exterior door. The drop in interior pressure causes outside air to rush in through areas, like inefficient windows.

The cost to conduct a blower door test is $50.

A duct blaster test uses a powerful fan that pushes air into the closed off central HVAC system’s ducts. The test can determine the amount of air leaking from ducts.

The next time you have a problem or question concerning utility costs, whether you're building a new home or improving the one you're still in, call Cotton Electric Cooperative at 580-875-3351 and ask our energy efficiency coordinator for expert advice.