How to Perform a DIY Home Energy Audit

A home energy audit—whether done by you or a pro—helps you pinpoint how your home uses electricity and where you may be losing energy and money. Even if you’re careful with your thermostat and have a great electricity plan, things like air leaks and outdated appliances can still push your bill higher.

Here’s the upside: a home energy audit can reveal easy fixes and guide your next steps.

What Is a Home Energy Audit?

A home energy audit reviews how your home uses energy, from insulation and appliances to your daily habits. The goal is to spot areas where you can boost efficiency.

Professional Energy Audit vs. DIY Energy Audit

What Happens in a Professional Audit

A professional energy audit is detailed. Auditors:

  • Inspect each room in your home
  • Check electrical and combustion appliances for safety
  • Test for air leaks using tools like a blower door
  • Use infrared cameras to spot heat loss
  • Analyze your past utility usage
  • Give you a report with tailored recommendations

Professional audits usually cost a few hundred dollars. Some utilities or local programs may offer rebates or discounts.

Why a DIY Audit Matters

You might not have specialized tools, but you can still find many common energy problems. A DIY home energy audit helps you spot big opportunities to save. 

How to Perform Your Own DIY Home Energy Audit

Every home is different, but most Texas homes can benefit from these steps:

Check for Air Leaks Around Windows and Doors

Air leaks make your HVAC system work harder, especially in Texas heat.

  • On a windy day, close windows and doors and use a candle, incense or tissue to find drafts
  • Check window and door frames and exterior baseboards
  • Seal any gaps with weatherstripping or caulk

Cutting down on drafts can improve comfort and lower your cooling bill.

Inspect Heating, Cooling and Water Heating Equipment

Heating and cooling use the most electricity in Texas homes.

  • Replace HVAC filters regularly
  • Schedule yearly maintenance for your AC
  • Check ductwork for leaks or loose connections
  • Insulate your water heater if it feels warm
  • Make sure vents aren’t blocked

If your AC or water heater is 10–15 years old, it may be less efficient and costing you more.

Review Attic Insulation and Ventilation

Attics are a common place for energy loss.

  • Look for thin, uneven or compressed insulation
  • Make sure attic vents aren’t blocked
  • Seal gaps around wiring, ductwork, and attic access
  • Confirm attic doors are sealed and insulated

Good insulation helps keep your home cool and reduces how often your AC runs.

Evaluate Lighting Usage

Lighting doesn’t use as much energy, but upgrades are simple.

  • Switch out incandescent bulbs for LEDs, especially in rooms you use most
  • Use task lighting instead of lighting the whole room
  • Turn off lights when you leave a room

Check Fireplace Dampers (If You Have One)

A fireplace damper that’s open or damaged can let cool air escape any time of year.

  • Make sure your damper closes fully
  • Look for drafts when the damper is closed
  • Seal the flue in off-season months if needed

Identify Phantom Loads and Standby Power

Lots of devices use power even when turned off. Common ones include:

  • Phone chargers
  • TVs and streaming devices
  • Computers and printers
  • Game consoles

Use power strips and unplug items you rarely use to cut down on standby energy waste.

Inspect Your Refrigerator

A refrigerator that isn’t sealing tightly can waste a lot of energy.

  • Check door gaskets for a firm seal
  • Clean dust from coils
  • Watch for signs of moisture or mold around seals

Poor seals or dirty coils can make your fridge work harder than it needs to.

After Your Audit: Make a Simple Energy-Saving Plan

After your walkthrough, start with the no-cost or low-cost fixes and tackle basic maintenance first—it often saves the most money. Then, decide if you need a pro for bigger projects and consider ENERGY STAR replacements and rebates. Finally, track your bills to see how your changes help.

How TXU Energy Supports Your Home Energy Savings

The right energy plan makes your DIY home energy audit even more effective. TXU Energy offers plans for Texas homes with predictable pricing on fixed-rate plans, usage tools to help you monitor and manage and renewable and flexible options to fit your needs.

Picking the plan that matches how your home uses electricity can help turn your energy-saving changes into real bill savings.

Next Step: Compare TXU Energy Plans

Ready to put your findings to work? Check your ZIP code to compare TXU Energy residential plans designed for savings, stability, and efficiency—so you can feel confident and worry-free about your electric bill.