A Mean, Green, Energy Efficient Machine

Ted Inoue of Energy Testing & Consulting.
By Susan McDonnell

Energy efficiency at home—it is good for the environment, and in the long term, good for your wallet. But for many, it’s hard to figure out how to start. That’s where Ted Inoue of Energy Testing & Consulting in New Hope comes in. As a consultant, he works one-on-one with customers throughout the region to help them find the best ways to go green at home.
Inoue’s interest in helping people create energy efficient homes was triggered when he himself was going through home renovations.

“Around 2003, I became very interested in the world’s energy situation, peak-oil in particular,” he said. “I realized that an energy crunch was coming in our lifetime, and I wanted to improve my own home’s energy efficiency. It was during this process when I started researching all the technology—solar, geothermal, windows, insulation, and so on. But when I wanted to have work done on my own home, I couldn’t find any contractors in the area who were knowledgeable about these things.”

After realizing the information he was getting from contractors was insufficient, the then software engineer began conducting his own research, learning about products, installation, and various ways he could accomplish his goal of a more energy efficient home.

Today, Inoue is a home energy consultant, and emphasizes that he is not a sales person and not a contractor. His product recommendations are based on analysis and experience, not on commissions. His goal is to work with clients and help them make informed decisions about the best ways they can improve their homes’ energy efficiency.

For individuals, Inoue conducts one-on-one home analyses. “The home analysis is like a home inspection, except I look at how the home works, sort of like how a doctor gives you a physical,” he notes. “First, I interview the home owners about their experience in the house. What would they like to accomplish? Where is it uncomfortable? Are there any strange smells or water leaks? Are they planning any renovations?”

After the interview, Inoue takes the client through each room of the house, scans each room with a thermal camera to find air leaks and insulation issues, explores the basement, crawl spaces, and attic looking for issues, and examines the outside of the house for other potential problems. From there, he makes recommendations for the owner.

“It’s interesting,” he says. “Some people have cut their electric bills in half by doing very simple things, like changing how much they run their pool pump or not using an electric space heater. I’m involved in a project in Levittown where we’re developing a standard set of renovations that are showing promise for 50 percent or greater savings. But more typically, I might be able to show someone how to save 20 percent.”

He notes that beyond the lower utility costs, a more energy efficient home has other benefits as well. Reduced drafts make the home more comfortable. He also advises homeowners on how to improve air quality and avoid mold, making the home healthier.

“I love using my problem solving skills to help others live better lives. I feel like this is my gift – there’s nothing better than sharing it with others.”

To learn more about Energy Testing & Consulting, visit www.etccreations.com or e-mail Ted Inoue at ted@etccreations.com.

Susan McDonnell is a freelance writer from Conshohocken, PA.