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If you are building a new home or would like to make your existing home more efficient, one of the first things you should do is a Home Energy Audit and Rating to establish where your plans could be improved. This type of evaluation is conducted based on plans and on-site inspections, and it is the only way to guarantee that your efforts deliver cost-effective improvements with a rapid return on your investment. Before you get started, you should be aware of two important programs that provide oversight for the green building industry: EPA’s EnergyStar program and RESNET’s Home Energy Rating System (HERS). The EnergyStar program is primarily for new construction projects, and it offers federal tax incentives and carries a trusted label that is recognized by buyers. The RESNET HERS program is for both new and existing homes, and it is used to qualify homes for the EnergyStar label, and it enables homeowners to take advantage of tax incentives and special financing. Because these two programs are related, you can use the same certified inspector to conduct EnergyStar and HERS evaluations. The key questions are: what type of inspection will suit you best, what is involved, and how do I find a qualified rater? RESNET has compiled the following descriptions that will help you answer these questions (link to original text): A home energy audit (or survey) evaluates an existing home to determine where and how energy is being lost, what systems are operating inefficiently and what cost-effective improvements can be implemented to enhance occupant comfort, make the home more durable and lower utility costs. RESNET has defined three types of energy assessments for existing homes which range in complexity from a simple but effective walk-through survey to a performance audit using diagnostic equipment and computerized data analysis to a comprehensive home energy rating utilizing the most sophisticated modeling software to produce a home rating score on the HERS Index. These options, listed from least complex to most complex are explained below. Home Energy Survey Building envelope features (windows, doors, insulation, ducts) and ages Heating, cooling and ventilation equipment types, characteristics and ages Appliance and lighting characteristics Comfort complaints Visible moisture issues Visible health and safety issues The Home Energy Survey Professional (HESP) will request a review of utility use and billing history to better understand potential opportunities for savings. A report of the complete assessment is provided, including basic recommendations for improving the home’s energy efficiency, as well as low-cost do-it yourself tasks. It also includes information on relevant utility-based programs that may incentivize the homeowner to take action. A Home Energy Survey takes approximately one hour to complete. Building Performance Audit The amount and location of air leaks in the building envelope The amount of leakage from HVAC distribution ducts The effectiveness of insulation inside walls and ceilings Any existing or potential combustion safety issues A Building Performance Auditor (BPA) conducts a whole-house evaluation and performs computer software analysis to identify and prioritize proposed treatments for improvement. The detailed report will provide suitable retrofit recommendations and specifications and guide the homeowner to the appropriate RESNET Qualified Energy Smart Contractors who can perform the work. A Building Performance Audit takes 3-4 hours depending on the size of your home. Comprehensive HERS Rating In addition, a Comprehensive HERS Rating includes a computerized simulation analysis utilizing RESNET Accredited Rating Software to calculate a rating score on the HERS Index. The report will also contain a cost/benefit analysis for the recommended improvements and expected return on investment. Comprehensive HERS Ratings of existing homes will be required to qualify loan applicants for certain federally sponsored mortgage products. Choosing a Rater Find out what are the basic services the rater provides. RESNET has adopted a Rating Standards of Practice to define this. Determine what training and experience the rater requires to meet your needs. In addition to receiving a rating score, will you require design assistance, HVAC sizing calculations, or construction crew training? Be sure you know that the rater’s skills meet your needs. Make sure that your rater carries proper insurance coverage. RESNET has arranged to provide affordable and comprehensive general liability and professional liability insurance coverage for raters. Make sure that the rater you hire is properly insured. Benefits of Hiring a RESNET Member Rater RESNET rater members are trained and have demonstrated technical proficiency and have committed to maintain and improve their technical proficiency through continuing education. Members are committed to conducting ratings in accordance with the RESNET Rating Standards of Practice; abiding by the RESNET Rating Code of Ethics, and disclose any financial interest in the home being rated. Through their membership to RESNET, member raters demonstrate their commitment to technical and ethical quality. ESA Home Energy Rating and Consulting |
