When to Do It Yourself, When to Hire a Pro

Consulting an Energy Auditor

Problem: Your energy bill has gone through the roof, and you still feel a chill.

Enter: The energy auditor or rater. These pros come armed with sophisticated equipment to trace even tiny air leaks and will prioritize problem areas in your home. Some local utility companies will send a contractor to you for a free basic inspection.

Cost: Zero to $350.

To find one: Check out energystar.gov or the Residential Energy Services Network at natresnet.org for a certified rater.

Consider doing it yourself when: You want to know your house from the insulation out. Check your local utility company’s website. Many have relatively easy instructions for do-it-yourself energy audits. Or see the U.S. Department eere.energy.gov.