Our Top Products Picks
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 Emporia Vue 3 Home Energy Monitor - Smart Home Automation Module and Real Time Electricity Usage Monitor, Power Consumption Meter, Solar and Net Metering for UL Certified Safe Energy MonitoringSAFETY YOU CAN TRUST WITH UL CERTIFICATION: With Emporia Energy, your home energy monitoring is safe, reliable, and certified. The Emporia Vue is UL Listed, meaning it has met rigorous safety standards for electrical products in the U.S. and Canada. This certification ensures that every component has been thoroughly tested to prevent hazards, such as overheating, short-circuiting, or fire, offering you peace of mind as you manage your home’s energy consumption. INSTALLS IN CIRCUIT PANEL of most homes with clamp-on sensors. Supports Single phase, Single-split phase, and 2-wire systems. 3-wire systems; 3-phase, 4-wire Wye systems with earthed (TN or TT) neutral (no-Delta) are supported with an additional 200A sensor (sold separately). 24/7 ENERGY MANAGEMENT AND MONITORING: Automate, manage and control your home's real power anywhere, anytime to prevent costly repairs, conserve energy, and save costs. Monitor solar / net metering. PROTECTED BY A 1-YEAR WARRANTY. LOWER YOUR ELECTRIC BILL: Configure settings in the Emporia Energy App to automate energy management for time of use, peak demand, excess solar, and rewards programs. You can even see live reporting and invaluable savings opportunities instantly. Gauge real-time spending and get actionable notifications and automated energy management to help you reduce costs. REAL-TIME ENERGY DATA: REQUIRES 2.4 GHz WIFI WITH AN INTERNET CONNECTION to monitor energy use with iPhone / Android / Web app. Vue sensors collect energy data and are accurate from ±2%. The Vue is UL and CE Listed for your safety. 1 second data is only available in the app (when actively open) and retained 3 hours. Minute and hour data are retained in the cloud. 1 minute data is retained 7 days, 1 hour data is retained indefinitely. Export cloud data whenever you want in the app. APPLIANCE MONITORING WITHOUT GUESSWORK: Comes with sixteen branch (50A) sensors to accurately monitor your critical loads like air conditioner, furnace, water heater, washer, dryer, range, etc. New and improved screw terminals / ports allow CT wires to be trimmed to reduce panel clutter. | |
 TP-Link Tapo Smart Plug Mini, Matter Compatible, Compatible with Alexa, Google Home & Samsung SmartThings, Energy Monitoring, 15A, UL Certified, 2.4G Wi-Fi Only, Tapo P110M(4-Pack)【Matter-Certified】Matter-certified devices, regardless of brand, can work together and are compatible with most major smart home platforms like Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Home, and Samsung SmartThings. Enjoy more flexible and unified control. 【Insightful Energy Tracking】 Monitor your energy consumption with in-depth statistics and clear visuals, helping you optimize power usage. 【Estimate Your Energy Bill】 Enhance energy management by integrating with billing systems for clear cost visualization (both single and periodic readings). Additionally, programmable scheduling allows automatic operation of high-consumption devices during off-peak hours with lower electricity rates, resulting in cost savings. 【Overcharge Prevention & Power Management】 Automatically cuts off power based on user-set thresholds and durations to prevent overcharging, conserve energy, and protect connected devices from overcurrents by shutting off when power exceeds set limits. 【Voice & Remote Control】 With built-in support for both Alexa and Google Assistant, issue simple voice commands to adjust settings, turn devices on or off, or even access specific functions without lifting a finger. Manage Tapo P110M and its connected devices from anywhere with the user-friendly Tapo app. | |
 Aqara Zigbee Temperature and Humidity Sensor-3 Pack, Wireless Thermometer Hygrometer for Home Automation, Remote Monitoring, Aqara Hub Required, Compatible with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Works with IFTTT[Notes] An Aqara Hub is required and sold separately. Hubs from other brands are not supported. A secured 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connection is needed for Hub M2/M1S/E1/M1S Gen2 and Camera Hub G2H Pro/G2H, while Camera Hub G3 supports 2.4/5GHz (Wi-Fi 6 not supported). Hub M2 also supports wired Ethernet (RJ45). To integrate the sensor with Apple HomeKit or Alexa, please bind the sensor through an Aqara Hub. For a stable Zigbee connection, keep the sensor within 10 meters (33 ft) of the hub. [3-in-1 Environmental Monitoring] Monitor your home’s environment with ease using the Aqara smart temperature sensor’s 3-in-1 functionality. It accurately measures temperature, humidity, and atmospheric pressure, ensuring you stay informed about your living conditions. All data is tracked in real time and displayed on the Aqara app, allowing you to view trends and make adjustments for a healthier and more comfortable home environment. [Proximity] For a sturdy connection and accurate transmission of temperature and humidity data, ensure that the Aqara Zigbee temperature humidity sensor is within 400 inches of the Aqara Zigbee hub, and the hub is within the same range from the Wi-Fi router. Additionally, make sure the hub and the router are on the same local area network (LAN). Zigbee2MQTT and comparable third-party USB dongles are not officially supported by Aqara. Full product functionality may be limited or unavailable. [Remote Monitoring and Home Automation] When the room temperature reaches above or below a certain threshold, the Aqara temperature sensor can send a push alert to your phone or trigger the Aqara Hub night light. Additionally, the Aqara Temperature and Humidity Sensor can control other connected devices such as Aqara Smart Plug to ensure that your fan or humidifier maintains a constant level of comfort for you and your family.***Requires Aqara Hub, not third-party hub. [Accurate Measurement] Utilizes high-quality sensor from the industry-leading manufacturer, Sensirion.(Please avoid installing the Aqara Temperature Sensor in environments with extreme temperatures, such as inside a refrigerator.) Note: Please pull the plastic battery tab out before long-pressing the reset button to start the device. If the device disconnects, please ensure the battery has power. If not, please rotate the temperature sensor to remove the battery cover and replace the battery. | |
 Smart Home Energy Monitor Supports Home Assistant, Real-Time Accurate Energy Consumption Tracking, Electricity Usage Monitor with 16x60A Circuit Sensors, 36-Month History, Solar Metering, 2.4G✨NEW✨ Feature Release (25.07.30): 1.Merge channels; 2.Export hourly-level energy data; 3.Access the new energy statistics page; 4.Invert CT readings directly via Device Settings → Circuit Factor (no physical flipping needed!). Update to the latest Refoss app and firmware to enable all features. Refoss Smart Home Energy Monitor: Supports 2 main circuit sensors (up to 200A each) and 16 branch circuit sensors (up to 60A each) with an easy-to-install clamp-on design. Compatible with single-phase 2-wire systems, single-split phase 3-wire systems, and 3-phase 4-wire Wye systems with earthed (TN or TT) neutral (no Delta). Easily installs in most home circuit panels and includes a 2-year warranty. Attention: Take care in accessing the included current transformer and avoid bumping it to prevent damage. 24/7 Energy Monitoring: With the Refoss app, you can track your home’s energy usage anytime, anywhere. Easily monitor the power, current, voltage, and power factor of major appliances like air conditioners, stoves, and water heaters. Quickly identify which devices are running efficiently and which ones might be wasting electricity. According to statistics, many users save an average of 10%-20% on their energy bills by optimizing appliance usage. Zero Feed In Automation: The EM16 is a smart meter designed for solar owners, linking with Home Assistant to automate your zero feed-in strategy. Ideal for homes with solar panels, it detects solar surplus (like midday sun peaks) and automatically powers high-energy appliances - such as activating your washing machine, EV charger, or water heater - to consume excess solar energy onsite. This prevents low-value electricity feed-ins to the grid, maximizing your solar investment returns and slashing utility bills. Comprehensive Energy Data: The power monitor provides 98% accuracy and stores up to 3 years of detailed electricity usage data. With clear minute, hour, day, month, and year consumption and cost charts, you can easily understand your energy use. Ideal for homeowners adjusting appliance usage to save on bills or businesses tracking long-term energy savings and emission reductions. Historical data can also be exported for further analysis, making every electricity expense transparent. Smart Consumption Alerts: You can set personalized usage targets for each circuit. Once the system detects an unusual energy spike—such as a sudden increase in power consumption by an appliance that exceeds the normal range—you will immediately receive a detailed alert notification. This allows you to take prompt action, such as checking if there is a malfunction with the device or adjusting your usage habits, thereby optimizing appliance usage across different times of the day. Compatible with Home Assistant: EM16 Wi-Fi Energy Monitor is now compatible with Home Assistant! Simply update the firmware in the Refoss app to seamlessly integrate your energy management system with your smart home platform, enabling centralized control and automation. Additionally, all data is stored locally, ensuring your privacy is protected without cloud processing. API is not supported. | |
 Shelly 1 Mini Gen3 | WiFi Smart Switch Relay 1 Channel 8A | Home Automation | Bluetooth Gateway | Compatible with Alexa & Google Home | iOS Android App | No Hub Required | Dry ContactsShelly 1 Mini Gen3 is a WiFi smart switch relay, 1 channel 8 A Equipped with a new processor & increased flash memory - ESP Shelly and has Improved durability of terminals also used as a WiFi range extender and Bluetooth Gateway, dry contacts, supports up to 8 A at 240 VAC and 5 A at 30 VDC. The world's smallest relay for smart control. Automate your lights, garage door, irrigation system or other small electronic devices in less than 10 minutes and control them from anywhere. Control Your Garage Door - The Shelly Plus 1 Mini's compact design allows for flexible placement, allowing you to install it directly in the garage door opener body or even near the motor. Its 8A load capacity ensures reliable garage door control, allowing you to conveniently operate your garage door remotely without the need for bulky external modules. Automate your irrigation system depending on the weather - The Shelly Plus 1 Mini, due to its small size, can be installed near the irrigation system control panel or in a waterproof housing, providing protection from the elements. Shelly Customer Service - Shelly is one of the fastest-growing Smart Home brands in the world with devices, providing solutions for the automation of private homes, buildings and businesses. We provide our customers with professional support and a 3 years device warranty. Shelly Smart Control App will help you control your Shelly devices remotely and will send notifications for all automated events in your home. You can easily configure devices and manage their settings individually, or you can create personalized scenes by combining Shelly devices to trigger certain actions in your home automation. | |
 Shelly Plus Uni | Smart Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Operated Module with Dry Contacts | Home Automation | Compatible with Alexa & Google Home | No Hub | Precise Voltmeter | Pulse Counting | Sensor InterfaceShelly Plus Uni is a smart Wi-Fi and Bluetooth-controlled module designed for low-voltage systems. This compact device offers advanced automation and insightful monitoring, making it ideal for various low-voltage AC and DC applications (8-24 VAC, 9-28 VDC, and 5 VDC). Additionally, it functions as a Wi-Fi range extender and Bluetooth gateway. From Manual To Smart - Shelly Plus Uni has the unique capability to replace traditional buttons, bringing old appliances into the realm of remote control without the need for replacements. Now, you can easily make your intercom or alarm system smart. Receive instant notifications when someone's at the door and remotely arm or disarm your security system with ease. Stay Connected To Your Gate and Garage - Now, whether you're at home or away, you can effortlessly operate your gate or garage door with your phone. But it doesn't stop there; the reed-switch provides real-time updates, ensuring you always know if they are securely closed or open. This setup simplifies daily routines, whether it's closing the garage from your office or welcoming guests without leaving your home. Shelly Customer Service - Shelly is one of the fastest-growing Smart Home brands in the world with devices, providing solutions for the automation of private homes, buildings and businesses. We provide our customers with professional support and a 3 years device warranty. Shelly Smart Control App will help you control your Shelly devices remotely and will send notifications for all automated events in your home. You can easily configure devices and manage their settings individually, or you can create personalized scenes by combining Shelly devices to trigger certain actions in your home automation. | |
 Smart Home Energy Monitor with 2 x 120A CTs, Real-Time Electricity Usage Monitor, Bi-Directional Power Tracking, Supports Single-Phase 3-Wire System, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi (WiFi Version)【Precise Real-Time Energy Monitoring】Provides highly accurate real-time electricity tracking, including voltage, current, power, and total energy consumption, helping you stay informed about your home’s energy usage. 【Bi-Directional Power Monitoring for Solar Systems】Designed for solar and battery storage systems, this energy monitor accurately measures both household energy consumption and power export to the grid with Class 1 accuracy. 【Quick & Easy Installation】Features pluggable terminals and compact split-core CTs for a hassle-free setup, eliminating the need for complex wiring and making installation effortless. 【Smart App & Home Automation Integration】Compatible with the Smart Life app, offering advanced features like real-time data analysis, bi-directional monitoring, alerts, and customizable automation scenes for seamless smart home integration. 【Optimized for Home Energy Management】Supports HEMS (Home Energy Management System) with Dynamic Load Balancing (DLB) and zero grid export mode, maximizing energy efficiency and reducing electricity costs. | |
 Aqara Dual Relay Module T2,Smart Relay Switch Dry Contact Mode for Garage Doors and Boilers,Light Switch Roller Shade Switch,Supports Homekit and Alexa,Requires a Neutral Line and Aqara Zigbee 3.0 Hub[Compatibility Features] The Dual Relay Module T2 is compatible with a variety of mainstream ecosystems, like Matter (A Matter compatible Aqara hub is required), Apple HomeKit, Alexa, IFTTT, and the Aqara Home app. This broad compatibility allows for easy integration into diverse smart home setups and usage in smart home automation [Dry Contact Mode] The Aqara Dual Relay Module T2 supports dry (or potential-free) contact mode with both pulse and on-off switching, allowing for the integration of a wide variety of electrical devices such as boilers, garage doors, and more into your smart home setup [Wireless Switch Mode & Motor Control Interlock] The T2 provides easy and secure control of tubular motors and can also function as a roller shade switch (percentage control not supported; supports basic up/stop/down control). Utilizing the Wireless Switch Mode, the T2 can convert an existing wall switch into a scene controller without requiring any wiring changes. For example, a button can be assigned to arm your wired doorbell or security system, enabling the integration of other wired sensors into your smart automations (AC only) [Energy Saving & Power-off Memory] With advanced energy monitoring, the T2 helps maintain optimal control over energy consumption (Note: The energy monitoring feature is only available in wet contact mode). Leveraging the Zigbee protocol, the T2 features significantly lower idle power consumption compared to Wi-Fi relays, leading to reduced energy costs. Additionally, equipped with a power-off memory function, the T2 retains its last state even after power interruptions [Safety and Installation Flexibility] The T2 supports overheat protection, overload protection, and a customizable power limit that automatically shuts off the device if consumption exceeds specified settings, directly safeguarding your home and energy footprint. Additionally, it can be installed near a light, behind a switch* or wall outlet, and includes a DIN rail mount. (*Note: The T2 dimensions: 1.80 × 1.89 × 0.95 inches) | |
 Ewelink WiFi Wireless Smart Relay Module USB 5v/12v/24v/48v Inching Selflock Remote ON Off Power Switch for Access Control,Turn on PC, Compatible with Alexa Google Home【Product Overview】This is a wifi smart switch, users can remotely switch connected home appliances or devices through ewelink APP, support third party voice control such as Amazon ECHO and Google Home and 2.4G light smart remote control, with timer on/off, scene linkage, power on setting, inching setting, sharing control and other functions 【Input/Output】Low voltage ewelink APP wifi dry contact relay/passive output, USB 5V input or DC 7~48V positive and negative input. 【Working Mode】 Self-locking mode by default, users can switch to inching mode in APP: for example, the device turns on and turns off automatically at 1 second intervals (interval time can be adjusted),it works as wireless button in inching mode,as wireless switch in self-lock latching mode 【Voice Control】 Works perfectly with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, Google Nes. You need to bind your eWeLink account and sync your device in the corresponding APP. Note: WIFI Relay Module only supports 2.4G WIFI network, 5G WiFi is not supported. 【Easy to setup】 with low voltage USB 5V or DC 7-48V,add Smart WIFI control to your home,support 2.4G wifi only,once powered on,please check if light will flash 2 short 1 long,if so,tap Ewelink app to configure directly PRODUCT MODEL : KR0548-1CH | |
 Emporia Vue 3 Energy Monitor 50A Sensor Pack, 8 PackEMPORIA Expansion Pack: This 8-pack 50A Sensor Pack expands the circuit monitoring capabilities of your Emporia Vue 3 Energy Monitor. Compatibility: Designed exclusively for the Vue 3 Energy Monitor, these 50A sensors are not compatible with Vue 2 or Vue 1 models. Circuit Level Tracking: With the additional sensors, you can monitor individual circuits within your electrical panel. Targeted Monitoring: Helpful for tracking suspect circuit usage, high appliance loads, and circuits of interest. Easy Installation: Seamlessly integrates with your existing Vue 3 Energy Monitor for enhanced home energy monitoring. |
If there is one thing my fifteen years in renewable energy has taught me, it is that generating your own power is pointless if you are blowing it out through a leaky attic hatch. We often fixate on high-tech solutions like the latest solar panels or lithium battery banks, but the most cost-effective upgrade usually hides behind your drywall. This brings us to the BGE home energy audit, technically known as the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® program.
As we settle into 2026, utility rates in Maryland have continued their steady climb, making efficiency less of a 'nice-to-have' and more of a financial necessity. I recently decided to put my own home through the wringer, scheduling a comprehensive audit to see if this subsidized program is actually a rigorous diagnostic tool or just a lead-generation funnel for insulation contractors. I’ve spent the last three months analyzing the data, sealing the leaks identified, and tracking the kilowatt-hour impact.
For those looking to understand the broader context of these incentives, I highly recommend reading our EmPOWER Maryland Program: The 2026 Homeowner's Guide to Rebates first. It explains how this audit is the mandatory gateway to unlocking thousands in rebates for insulation and HVAC upgrades. But for now, let’s grab a flashlight and look at what actually happens during the inspection.
Key Takeaways: The 30-Second Verdict
For those of you short on time, here is the executive summary of my experience with the BGE program this year:
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The Value Proposition: For the standard $100 co-pay (which hasn't changed since 2024), the value is undeniable. You get about $400-$600 worth of diagnostic testing, including a blower door test and combustion safety checks.
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The Gateway: You cannot access significant insulation or air sealing rebates without this audit. If you plan to upgrade your attic in 2026, this step is mandatory.
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The Sales Pitch: Be aware that the auditor is usually a private contractor. While the data is objective, their recommendations will lean heavily toward services they provide.
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Immediate Gratification: They installed reliable LED bulbs and high-efficiency showerheads on the spot, free of charge.
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Who It's For: Owners of homes built before 2015. Newer builds often pass code requirements that make the 'low hanging fruit' upgrades unnecessary.
The Scheduling & Cost Structure
Getting an auditor to your door in Maryland used to be a weeks-long waiting game back in the early 2020s. In 2026, the network of certified contractors has stabilized. I booked my appointment online through the BGE portal and had a technician confirmed for three days later.
Currently, the program operates on a fixed co-pay model. The audit costs the utility company roughly $400, but the homeowner pays only $100 at the time of service. It is worth noting that some contractors might waive this fee if you commit to doing the work with them immediately—a tactic I generally advise against. Pay the $100 so you own the data and can shop around for the actual retrofits without feeling obligated.
The Gear: Blower Doors and Thermal Cameras
As an engineer, this is the part I geek out on. The auditor arrived with two primary pieces of equipment that separate a professional assessment from a DIY walkthrough: a blower door fan and a thermal imaging camera.
The Blower Door Test The technician sets up a red nylon frame in your front door, complete with a powerful calibrated fan. This fan pulls air out of the house, depressurizing the interior to exactly -50 Pascals relative to the outside. It sounds intense, but it feels like a stiff breeze standing near a window.
Why do we do this? By lowering the pressure inside, outside air forces its way in through every crack, gap, and unsealed outlet in your home's envelope. It turns invisible leaks into rushing streams of air you can feel with your hand.
Thermal Imaging While the house was depressurized, we walked around with a FLIR thermal camera. In 2026, these cameras are incredibly sensitive. We found distinct blue streaks (cold air) cascading down the walls in the master bedroom—evidence that the insulation in the knee walls had settled over time, leaving massive gaps. This is something I would never have found with a visual inspection alone.
The Walkthrough: More Than Just Insulation
Beyond the high-tech gadgets, the auditor spent a good hour in the crawlspace and attic. This is where the physical reality of the home meets building science.
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Attic Inspection: He didn't just poke his head in. He crawled to the eaves to check for baffled vents. In my case, he found that previous owners had stuffed fiberglass over the soffit vents, choking the roof's breathability—a recipe for mold and ice dams.
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Combustion Safety: This is critical. If you have gas appliances, the auditor tests for gas leaks and carbon monoxide. More importantly, they check 'draft pressure' to ensure your water heater doesn't backdraft exhaust into the house when the blower door (or your kitchen range hood) is running.
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The 'Quick Wins': As he went, he installed aerators on bathroom faucets and swapped out a few remaining CFL bulbs for 2026-standard LEDs. These are small items, but they are included in the audit fee.
The Report: Deciphering the Data
About 48 hours after the visit, I received a 30-page PDF report. This document is your roadmap. It categorizes issues by 'Priority' and 'Cost-Effectiveness.'
The Magic Number: Air Changes Per Hour (ACH50) My home scored a 7.2 ACH50. This means at 50 Pascals of pressure, all the air in my house is replaced 7.2 times an hour. For context:
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Passive House: < 0.6 ACH50
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New Code (2026): ~3.0 ACH50
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Drafty Old Farmhouse: > 10.0 ACH50
Being at 7.2 meant I was leaking money. The report pinpointed the rim joists in the basement and the attic hatch as the primary culprits. It projected that air sealing and topping off insulation to R-49 could reduce my heating load by 18%.
The Rebates: Unlocking the EmPOWER Maryland Funds
This is where the audit pays for itself. You cannot simply buy insulation at a hardware store and send BGE the receipt. The rebate logic in 2026 remains tied to the 'whole home' approach.
Based on my audit report, I was eligible for:
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75% off Air Sealing: Up to $2,500.
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75% off Insulation: Up to $4,500, provided I hit the targeted R-values.
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HVAC Incentives: Because my ductwork was also assessed, I qualified for a tiered rebate on a high-efficiency heat pump to replace my aging furnace.
Without the audit certificate, these rebates are inaccessible. The program essentially forces you to diagnose the patient before prescribing the medication, which frankly, prevents a lot of wasted money on oversized AC units put into leaky houses.
Real World Results: 3 Months Later
I proceeded with the recommended air sealing (rim joists and attic penetrations) and added 10 inches of blown-in cellulose. I did not upgrade the HVAC yet.
Comfort: The draft that used to plague our living room floor is gone. The house holds temperature significantly longer. In previous winters, the furnace cycled every 15 minutes. Now, it runs longer but less frequently, which is better for the equipment.
Cost: comparing my utility bills year-over-year (normalizing for weather degree days), my consumption dropped by roughly 14%. At current Maryland rates, that puts me on track to recoup my portion of the project cost (after rebates) in about 3.5 years. For a home improvement project, that is an excellent ROI.
The Dealbreaker: When to Walk Away
While I am a proponent of this program, it is not flawless. The biggest potential dealbreaker is the Auditor-Contractor conflict. Remember, the person doing the audit usually works for the company that wants to sell you the insulation.
I have seen reports where auditors exaggerated the urgency of replacing windows. Hard Truth: Replacing windows rarely pays for itself in energy savings alone. If your auditor pushes expensive window replacements over cheap air sealing, keep your guard up. Always get three quotes for the retrofit work. You are not obligated to use the company that performed the audit.
Comparison Table: DIY vs. Professional BGE Audit
| Feature | DIY Audit (Thermal Gun + Smoke Pencil) | BGE Professional Audit |
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| Cost | ~$50 - $300 (Equipment purchase) | $100 (Co-pay) |
| Diagnostic Depth | Surface level. Finds visible leaks. | Structural level. Quantifies total leakage (ACH50). |
| Rebate Eligibility | None. | Unlocks EmPOWER Maryland rebates. |
| Safety Check | Visual only. | Combustion analysis & gas leak testing. |
| Best For | Renters or minor draft hunting. | Homeowners planning major upgrades. |
Conclusion: A Mandatory First Step
The BGE Home Energy Audit is the most logical first step for any Maryland homeowner facing high bills in 2026. It removes the guesswork. Instead of wondering if your windows are the problem, you get a physics-based answer. While the $100 fee is a hurdle for some, the inclusion of direct install items (LEDs, showerheads) and the gateway to thousands in rebates makes it a financial no-brainer.
Treat the report as a guide, not a commandment. Prioritize air sealing and insulation first—that is where the real ROI lives. And as always, verify the combustion safety of your home before you seal it up too tight.
The BGE Home Energy Audit is the most logical first step for any Maryland homeowner facing high bills in 2026. It removes the guesswork. Instead of wondering if your windows are the problem, you get a physics-based answer. While the $100 fee is a hurdle for some, the inclusion of direct install items (LEDs, showerheads) and the gateway to thousands in rebates makes it a financial no-brainer.
Treat the report as a guide, not a commandment. Prioritize air sealing and insulation first—that is where the real ROI lives. And as always, verify the combustion safety of your home before you seal it up too tight.