Description
HERS Testing & HERS Raters
Home Energy Rating System (HERS) testing is a set of verifications that are used to evaluate the energy efficiency of a home according to California’s Energy Code.
Taking part in HERS testing for any building allows the technician to determine where deficiencies can be improved. Studies have shown that the average home may lose up to 30% of its conditioned air due to poorly installed Heating, Ventilation, and Cooling (HVAC) equipment.
HERS testing is typically required by the California Energy Commission (CEC) to verify the project is meeting its Energy Standards. This requirement is triggered by installing new equipment and applying for a permit at your local Enforcement Agency. HERS testing must be completed before the permit can be closed. Also, these tests can be used as a preliminary tool a building owner can utilize to see how their building is performing. This option may be more in-depth because it does not mandate HERS testing, and typically would be done before, during, and after a building renovation. Applying HERS testing during this process allows the general contractor to work with the technician performing the tests. It ensures that the necessary steps are being taken to increase building comfort, energy savings, and decrease air loss to unconditioned space.
California code may require HERS testing if there is a mechanical change-out during this process. Most commonly, HERS testing is needed on a project having HVAC equipment replaced. However, you can expect to see testing done on additions and newly constructed buildings that include commercial, multifamily, and single-family homes.
Understanding building classification is essential regarding how HERS testing is applied. For example, residential buildings that are between one and three stories classify as low rise buildings, whereas, residential buildings with three or more stories have the same classification as commercial. This classification does apply to both newly
Home Energy Rating System (HERS) testing is a set of verifications that are used to evaluate the energy efficiency of a home according to California’s Energy Code.
Taking part in HERS testing for any building allows the technician to determine where deficiencies can be improved. Studies have shown that the average home may lose up to 30% of its conditioned air due to poorly installed Heating, Ventilation, and Cooling (HVAC) equipment.
HERS testing is typically required by the California Energy Commission (CEC) to verify the project is meeting its Energy Standards. This requirement is triggered by installing new equipment and applying for a permit at your local Enforcement Agency. HERS testing must be completed before the permit can be closed. Also, these tests can be used as a preliminary tool a building owner can utilize to see how their building is performing. This option may be more in-depth because it does not mandate HERS testing, and typically would be done before, during, and after a building renovation. Applying HERS testing during this process allows the general contractor to work with the technician performing the tests. It ensures that the necessary steps are being taken to increase building comfort, energy savings, and decrease air loss to unconditioned space.
California code may require HERS testing if there is a mechanical change-out during this process. Most commonly, HERS testing is needed on a project having HVAC equipment replaced. However, you can expect to see testing done on additions and newly constructed buildings that include commercial, multifamily, and single-family homes.
Understanding building classification is essential regarding how HERS testing is applied. For example, residential buildings that are between one and three stories classify as low rise buildings, whereas, residential buildings with three or more stories have the same classification as commercial. This classification does apply to both newly
