Green Training - Home Energy Analyst HERS

The Building Analyst and HERS Rater course is based upon a broad building science curriculum. It presents a solid scientific foundation upon which inspectors and auditors can build an accurate understanding of modern buildings. Each topic includes an overview of the technology, examples of typical installations and their defects, procedures for performing audits, and guidelines for analyzing potential retrofits. A balanced approach to building performance is presented here that addresses energy efficiency, building durability, and human health. The information presented here covers the topic areas included in the BPI Building Certification Model, the RESNET Home Energy Rating Standards, and the WAP Core Competencies. Students who complete the course will possess the skills needed to sit for the BPI and RESNET exams.
Curriculum
Week 1: Basic Building Science
This topic describes the most essential physical principles and technical skills that underlay the work of building scientists. A working knowledge of this material is critical to understanding every other topic presented here.
The following subjects will be covered in this topic.
1. Temperature and Heat
2. Heat Loss and Gain
3. Air Pressure and Flow
4. Electric Power and Energy
5. Electrical Systems
Week 2: Building Assessment Skills
All building performance improvements must be preceded by an accurate and informed assessment of the structure. This topic provides guidance for inspection, measurement, and testing procedures. Modules on utility bill analysis and computer auditing will help analysts fine-tune their audits.
The following subjects will be covered in this topic.
1. Energy Auditing
2. Technical Math Skills
3. Analyzing Consumption
Week3: Air Leakage Diagnostics
Air leakage is a fundamental but complex housing problem that determines energy waste, indoor air quality, and building durability. This topic focuses on methods of measuring air leakage, guidelines for evaluating potential energy savings, and principles for evaluating ventilation.
Week 4: Heating and Cooling Systems
Heating and cooling systems are the most complicated equipment in most homes. They also consume the majority of energy in many climates. This topic illustrates the range of equipment used, describes the operation of each, and provides guidance for assessing the most critical operating parameters. Assessment of ducts and airflow are included here.
Week 5: Building Enclosure
Improving the efficiency of the building shell is the key to comfort and seasonal energy savings. Insulation and air sealing are the primary topics here, and a strong case is made for maximizing the application of both measures. Window repair and replacement are included here.
The following subjects will be covered in this topic.
1. Air Barrier Repair
2. Fibrous Insulation
3. Foam Insulation
4. Floor and Foundation Insulation
5. Window Efficiency
Week 6: Durable Healthy Homes
Building performance work cannot be separated from air quality and moisture management. This topic draws the connections among comfort, durability, and safety, and outlines the simplest approaches to achieving all three. Principles of mechanical ventilation are included here.
The following subjects will be covered in this topic.
1. Indoor Air Pollutants
2. Basic Moisture Management
3. Basic Mechanical Ventilation
Week 7: Water Heating and Baseload
Water heating, lighting, refrigeration, and other baseload should never be overlooked in a comprehensive building performance project. In mild climates, they may consume more energy than heating and cooling combined. Appliance replacement in particular is increasingly attractive as technologically advanced equipment comes to market.
The following subjects will be covered in this topic.
1. Water Heating Basics
2. Residential Lighting
3. Residential Refrigerators
Week 8: Final Exam
Optional Content: RESNET and BPI Standards
The final exam includes 100 multiple-choice questions. It draws from all the material covered in the seven Building Analyst topics above.
You'll have two hours to complete the exam. Be sure to schedule a block of un-interupted time for the exam -- once you begin, you must finish it in one sitting. The exam is formatted like the 10-question quizzes that are included in each topic. You'll see 10 questions at a time. You can save each page before you go on to the next, and you'll be able to return to any page to check your responses before submitting the entire exam.
We also include information during this last week that relates specifically to candidates for the RESNET and BPI exams. If you don't plan to sit for these exams, you could skip this information. But RESNET and BPI candidates will be glad to find modules on software programs, energy efficient mortgages, tax credits, and the requirements for gaining each certification.
This RESNET and BPI program information is not covered in our final exam. But if you choose to study this topic, a final optional quiz is available that helps confirm that you understand the material.
Required materials
Residential Energy provides much of the background in building science you'll need to understand the principles presented. The Saturn Building Analyst Field Guide describes the procedures used to assess the performance of both new and existing buildings. Both contain information that is included in the quizzes and final exam. For more info on the book go to http://srmi. biz/ Bookstore. Saturn_Books. htm
Instructors
John Krigger and Chris Dorsi are two of this country s foremost experts on residential energy issues, with 60 years combined experience in energy-conservation and building troubleshooting. Their expertise includes home design, construction and retrofit, heating, air conditioning, air-sealing, insulation, lighting, water heating, and home appliances.