Checking Home Energy Performance

If you want to improve the efficiency of your home, especially if you have high energy bills or your home is uncomfortable, consider contacting a professional to conduct a home energy audit to diagnose why.

The Residential Energy Services Network's (RESNET) sets the national standards for building energy efficiency rating systems. RESNET Ratings provides a relative energy use index called the HERS Index – a HERS Index of 100 represents the energy use of the “American Standard Building” and an Index of 0 (zero) indicates that the Proposed Building uses no net purchased energy (a Zero Energy Building).

Knowing the home’s energy performance is a critical piece of information you need when selecting or upgrading a home. A home energy rating will educate you about the condition of a home’s energy performance.

Home energy ratings provide a standard measurement of a home’s energy efficiency. Ratings are used for both and new and existing homes. In new homes, ratings often verify energy performance for the ENERGY STAR homes program, energy efficient mortgages, and energy code compliance. Homeowners who want to upgrade the home’s energy efficiency can use the energy rating to evaluate and pinpoint specific, cost-effective improvements.

For existing homes, homeowners can receive a report listing cost-effective options for improving the home’s energy rating. An energy rating allows a home buyer to easily compare the energy performance of the homes being considered.

You can find certified raters in your area by visiting RESNET's website. Or you may want to have a facilitator help you with implementing energy upgrades.

Energy Facilitators

• Energy Smart Homes - EnergySmartHomes.net
• Synergy Homebuyer Services - SmartEnergySolutions.com 

Energy Raters

• Residential Energy Services Network - nstresnet.org 
  
• California Home Energy Efficiency Rating System - cheers.org
• CalCERTS, Inc. - calcerts.com