Measuring building performance – HERS rating
Although measuring building performance may sound like a simple measurement of a building’s energy efficiency, it actually moves far beyond this. In order to properly calculate a building’s performance, one must consistently address how the building is performing, what is affecting this performance, and how it can be influenced. Although it has traditionally been a time consuming and difficult task to calculate a building’s performance, ever improving technology has made this process increasingly manageable.
One modern method of assessing a buildings performance and energy efficiency is known as a HERS rating. HERS stands for “Home Energy Rating System” and allows homebuilders to receive an energy assessment of their future home by having a certified HERS Rater analyze their home’s construction plans and provide onsite inspections. A HERS Rater is a certified individual who is trained to complete a Home Energy Rating following RESNET’s standards by grading and testing various aspects of a home that contribute to its energy use. Collaborating with a certified HERS Rater during the design and build process gives a homebuilder the ability to assess and even direct the energy efficiency of their home before and during construction. At the end of the build process, the home is then scored with a HERS index that helps to quantify and visualize the home’s calculated energy efficiency.
If you are a current or future homebuilder looking to create an energy efficient home to benefit not only your wealth but also your health, consider looking into receiving a HERS rating to gain a better understanding of where you stand and how you can improve on your future home’s energy use. To learn more about RESNET’s HERS rating system, click here.