A HERS rating involves an analysis of a home’s construction plans and a series of onsite inspections and testing. Based on the home’s plans, the Home Energy Rater uses an energy efficiency software to perform an analysis of the home’s design. This analysis creates a projected HERS score. Upon completion of the projected HERS score, the rater will work with the builder to ensure the house will meet criteria of the HERS score. The rater then conducts onsite inspections, typically including an insulation inspection, a blower door test and a duct test. Results of these tests, along with inputs derived from the on-site review, are used to generate the final HERS Index score for the home. All new construction is required to have a score of 55 or below.
