Free Home Energy Audits: How to Get One This Winter
Learn where to apply for no-cost audits, what utilities include, and quick DIY checks to cut winter bills.
You can get a free home energy audit this winter through the federal Weatherization Assistance Program if you meet income rules, or through select utility programs if you are a customer. A home energy audit is a room-by-room check that finds where heat escapes and where power is wasted. Start with the federal program if your household has limited income.
Check your utility next, since several offer no-cost assessments with reports, rebates and installed savings products.
Verification note: Program terms and availability can change. This page was checked against linked sources on November 03, 2026.
Who qualifies for a no-cost federal audit?
The U.S. Department of Energy funds no-cost home weatherization for income-eligible households, starting with a professional energy audit, according to the Weatherization Assistance Program. Priority goes to seniors, people with disabilities and families with children.
Eligibility is based on household income and size. Each state sets its own income cutoff within federal guidelines. Renters can often apply with landlord permission.
How do you apply through your state?
You apply through your state weatherization office or a local provider, not the Department of Energy directly. If approved, an approved auditor schedules a free comprehensive home energy audit, as explained in the Colorado Energy Office Weatherization FAQs. Apply early in winter because waitlists are common.
Keep utility bills and ID handy to speed review.
- Find your state office or local provider online.
- Submit proof of income, household size and address.
- Wait for approval, then book the scheduled audit visit.
What do utility programs offer customers?
Mass Save utility sponsors offer no-cost virtual or in-person Home Energy Assessments, according to the program's Home Energy Assessments. An Energy Specialist finds savings opportunities, issues a custom report with rebates and 0% financing options, and checks insulation and air sealing. Baltimore Gas and Electric offers its Quick Home Energy Check-up at no additional cost to BGE customers, per the Quick Home Energy Check-up details.
It includes a visual check of insulation, heating and cooling, lighting and appliances plus installed efficiency products. It is limited to once every 5 years per address. New Jersey Natural Gas SAVEGREEN offers a free Whole Home Energy Assessment to residential customers through June 30, 2027.
It is limited to one free assessment per 12 months. A low-cost Plus option adds a blower-door test for hidden leaks.
What happens during a professional visit?
A full assessment often uses a calibrated blower-door fan to measure air leakage. It also uses infrared cameras to spot missing insulation and drafts. The auditor checks doors, windows, ducts, insulation and heating equipment.
You receive a list of fixes ranked by savings. Winter fixes often include air sealing, attic insulation and thermostat settings.
How can you check for leaks yourself?
ENERGY STAR describes attic insulation checks and simple light, paper and smoke tests for window, door and air leaks. Hold paper in a closed door or watch smoke near edges on a windy day. Walk each room and note cold spots, dusty streaks near gaps and bare attic joists.
Seal obvious gaps with caulk or weatherstripping first. Then call a professional if drafts, high bills or cold rooms persist.