Before the energy advisor arrives

An energy evaluation can help connect several household complaints: a drafty chair, a cold upstairs room and equipment that seems to work harder than expected. It is most useful when the advisor can inspect the relevant parts of the house and understand your plans.

Book through a registered service organization and confirm what the visit includes, its cost and any program sequence that applies before starting improvements.

Natural Resources Canada's EnerGuide preparation guidance describes an evaluation by a registered energy advisor. The provider will explain the conditions needed for the visit and access to equipment and building areas.

Tell the organization about wood-burning appliances, unusual building conditions and any access restrictions in advance. Follow its instructions for preparing fireplaces and other appliances for the blower-door test, including safe handling of cold ashes where directed.

Clear requested access without disturbing suspect materials or entering unsafe spaces. If an area cannot be reached safely, discuss that before the appointment.

Gather available renovation records, insulation information and equipment details. Note comfort problems by room and season, and explain planned work such as windows, an addition or a heat pump.

Ask which improvements should happen first and how they may affect later equipment sizing. Request an explanation of the report's assumptions and recommendations.

An energy evaluation and an HVAC design calculation serve related but different purposes. Confirm what additional sizing or distribution assessment is needed for a specific equipment proposal.

Keep the report with your project records and use it when requesting quotes. If a rebate program requires before-and-after evaluations, follow that program's exact timing rather than assuming any previous visit qualifies.

Good preparation gives the advisor more useful access and gives you a report you can use to plan the next job.