What is an energy audit in relation to HERS rating?

An energy audit, in the context of the HERS rating, is a comprehensive evaluation of a home's energy use and performance, aimed at identifying opportunities for improvement. This process involves analyzing various aspects of a home's energy consumption, including its heating, cooling, lighting, and appliance efficiency, as well as the building envelope, which includes walls, insulation, windows, and doors.

Through this evaluation, the auditor can pinpoint areas where energy losses occur and suggest measures for enhancing efficiency, which can lead to reduced utility costs and improved comfort. This aligns with the HERS rating's focus on assessing and improving a home's energy performance to achieve higher efficiency and sustainability standards.

The other options do not accurately reflect the purpose of an energy audit related to HERS. For example, measuring outdoor air quality is not pertinent to assessing a home's energy usage, and reducing electricity costs is more of a potential outcome than the specific nature of an energy audit. Additionally, inspecting structural elements such as the roof and foundation is outside the scope of what an energy audit addresses, which is focused on energy performance rather than structural integrity.