A new home can qualify for the ENERGY STAR rating , by meeting strict guidelines for energy efficiency set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These homes are at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to both the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC) and the International Energy Conservation Council (IECC) and include additional energy-saving features that typically make them 20–30% more efficient than standard homes.

     The Home Energy Rater works with the builder providing consultation prior to, during construction and certification at the completion of the project. A rater is given plans and specifications and produces a silulated projected energy rating for the house to be build. The projected rating will assist the builder with any adjustments can be made

                                     Existing Homes

  Home energy audits (also referred to as ratings) are conducted in phases. For an individual homeowner or someone buying an existing home interested in energy improvements, the first step is the Initial Audit. This is a data gathering process that can be conducted on line, in home or a combination of both. We are looking at all components of the home that affect energy use, heat transfer (through convection, conduction, and radiation). The efficiency of all appliances (including the water heater and the HVAC system), windows, doors, the fireplace, plumbing and electrical fixtures, etc. are evaluated. In addition to this there is a visual inspection that needs to include the general type, condition and age of the home. The house and the duct system(s) are either pressurized or depressurized to determine the amount of air leaks.

     At this point we are able to use RESNET approved software to analyze the house, run a computer simulation and provide a Projected Report which informs the client item by item which components of the house will be the most cost effective improvements. We will be able to estimate your annual energy savings and your savings to investment returns (SIR).

     Energy mortgages will require a Confirmed Audit after all improvements have been completed. This is a verification of the newly installed components and a performance pressure test of the house and the duct system.

     The projected report and the Confirmed Audit must be preformed by a residential energy efficiency professional, a Home Energy Rater. Each rater for Texas Home Auditors are trained and certified by AHERO Inc.,  a RESNET accredited home energy rater training provider.