Audit levels
Level 1: walk-through
Utility analysis, benchmarking, and a walk-through to find no-cost and low-cost measures and flag candidates for deeper study.
ASHRAE Standard 211Level 2: survey and analysis
A detailed field survey, end-use breakdown, and measures with estimated cost, savings, and payback. The level most ordinances and incentive programs ask for.
ASHRAE Standard 211Level 3: detailed analysis
Investment-grade analysis of capital measures using trend data, short-term metering, or a calibrated model.
ASHRAE Standard 211What is included
Scope is set in the proposal and fits the project. These are the deliverables we typically provide.
- Utility bill analysis, 12 to 36 months
- ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager benchmarking
- Energy end-use breakdown
- Field survey of HVAC, controls, lighting, and plant
- Operational findings from the BAS
- Ranked measures with cost, savings, and payback
- Executive summary for decision makers
- Ordinance or incentive forms where required
How an audit runs
Data request
Utility bills, drawings, and BAS access.
Benchmark
Compare the building against its peers.
Site survey
Equipment, schedules, setpoints, and controls.
Analysis
Calculate savings and price each measure.
Report and review
Walk through results with your team.
Standards and references we work to
- ASHRAE Standard 211
- ASHRAE Standard 100
- ASHRAE Guideline 14
- ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager
- ASHRAE Guideline 0.2
Questions about energy audits
Which audit level do I need?
If a local ordinance or incentive program applies, it usually sets the level, most often Level 2. Without a mandate, a Level 1 is a good first look for a single building, and Level 3 is for capital projects that need investment-grade numbers.
Will the audit satisfy our local ordinance?
Many benchmarking and audit ordinances reference ASHRAE Standard 211. We confirm your jurisdiction's requirements, including who must sign the report, before we propose.
How long is the site visit?
It depends on the building size and audit level. A typical Level 2 for a mid-size commercial building takes one to two days on site.
Can an audit include retro-commissioning findings?
Yes. Many of the best savings come from controls and schedules rather than new equipment, so we review the BAS as part of every Level 2 and Level 3 audit.
Need an energy audit?
Tell us the building type, size, location, and whether an ordinance applies. We reply within one business day.