What are the primary goals of conducting an energy audit?

The primary goals of conducting an energy audit center around identifying energy inefficiencies and recommending improvements to lower costs. An energy audit systematically evaluates a building's energy use, assessing how energy is consumed and pinpointing areas where wasted energy could be reduced. This process often includes examining insulation, HVAC systems, lighting, and appliances, as well as identifying potential upgrades that can lead to significant cost savings on energy bills.

The findings from an energy audit are crucial not only for financial efficiency but also for environmental impact, as reducing energy consumption contributes to lower greenhouse gas emissions. By making recommendations based on the audit, property owners can implement strategies that enhance energy efficiency, improve comfort, and ultimately reduce operational costs.

Other options listed do not align with the core objectives of an energy audit. Building codes focus on compliance and safety rather than efficiency, aesthetic appeal is generally outside the scope of energy audits, and updating plumbing pertains more to systems unrelated to energy consumption. Thus, the focus on identifying inefficiencies and recommending improvements to decrease costs encapsulates the essence of what an energy audit aims to achieve.