Who's Behind This Site
I'm Rick Powell, a residential energy performance contractor based in California. For the past decade I've worked directly with homeowners to improve the energy efficiency of their homes — diagnosing building envelope problems, commissioning HVAC systems, auditing insulation and air leakage, and training other contractors through Cal Certs and the California state energy rating system.
I hold a BPI Certification as a Building Analyst, which means I'm trained to evaluate a home as a complete system — not just one component at a time. I'm also an NCI Credentialed HVAC Technician, a CSLB Licensed Contractor in California, a Cal Certs Trainer, and a CA State Energy Rater. These aren't honorary titles — they represent real field hours, testing, and accountability.
After a decade of this work, I've seen the same mistakes made over and over: homeowners replacing HVAC systems before fixing air sealing, spending money on windows that barely move the needle, or going solar on a house that leaks like a sieve. EnergyWiseTools.com is my attempt to give homeowners the honest, independent information they need to make better decisions — before they call anyone.
Credentials & Background
Why I Built These Tools
— Rick Powell
When homeowners search for energy savings information, they're usually met with two things: vague government pamphlets or slick sales pitches from contractors and manufacturers. Neither one gives a straight answer.
The tools on this site are built on real building science — BPI methodology, DOE data, and the kind of diagnostic thinking that goes into a proper home energy audit. They're not trying to sell you insulation, HVAC equipment, windows, or solar panels. They're trying to help you understand what your home actually needs — and in what order.
Everything runs in your browser. Nothing is saved or transmitted. No signup. No upsell. Just honest answers in plain English.
What You'll Find Here
EnergyWiseTools.com offers free calculators for the most common residential energy decisions: insulation savings, HVAC efficiency, air sealing, window upgrades, utility bill analysis, and solar readiness. There's also a blog with in-depth articles written from real field experience — not manufacturer talking points.
If you have questions or feedback, feel free to reach out at rickpowell61@gmail.com.