Shepherd Energy is often asked: When is the best time to have a home energy audit? Many homeowners assume winter is the ideal season. This belief is understandable—cold drafts are easier to feel, heating systems run longer, and higher winter utility bills tend to highlight comfort and cost concerns. As a result, winter is frequently associated with increased awareness of a home’s energy inefficiencies.
Although drafts are particularly evident during colder seasons, energy loss is a constant issue that persists throughout the entire year. If outside air enters a home during winter, similar air exchange happens in every season. Research indicates that up to 30% of conditioned air can escape a home each day, emphasizing how persistent energy inefficiencies can be.¹ The same gaps and leakage pathways that allow cold air infiltration in winter also permit hot, humid air to enter during spring and summer.
The key difference is perception. In the winter, cold air intrusion is uncomfortable and immediately apparent. During warmer months, however, increased movement, shorter periods of inactivity, and more frequent window and door use make air leakage less noticeable—even though conditioned air continues to escape and unconditioned outdoor air continues to enter the home.
Regardless of the season, air leakage remains constant. What changes is the energy demand: heating losses dominate in winter, while cooling losses increase in summer. In both cases, inefficiencies lead to higher energy consumption, increased utility costs, and reduced indoor comfort.
A professional home energy audit evaluates a house as an integrated system, independent of the time of year. During an audit, homeowners can expect comprehensive inspections that may include blower door testing to pinpoint air leakage, thermal imaging to identify insulation deficiencies, and assessments of ductwork and mechanical systems that affect energy performance year-round. These diagnostic tools deliver reliable, data-driven insights whether the home is being heated or cooled.
Ultimately, there is no single “best” time of year to schedule an energy audit. The right time is whenever a homeowner wants clear, actionable information about their home’s performance and practical steps to improve comfort, efficiency, and long-term energy costs. Because the factors that influence energy use exist year-round, the value of an energy audit does as well.
To take the next step, consider contacting Shepherd Energy to schedule a professional energy audit. Shepherd Energy can explain the process, identify opportunities specific to your home, and help you move forward with confidence toward improved comfort and efficiency.
Crystal Faison serves as President of Shepherd Energy, where she leads data-driven energy assessments that emphasize efficiency, comfort, and long-term building performance.
Footnote
¹ U.S. Department of Energy, Air Sealing Your Home: Studies show that air leakage can account for up to 30% of heating and cooling energy loss in a typical home.