What specific information must be collected on-site by a HERS rater?

The core responsibility of a HERS rater is to conduct an accurate assessment of a home’s energy performance, which requires evaluating specific details related to the construction and systems of the building. Therefore, collecting building dimensions, insulation levels, window specifications, and mechanical system details is crucial.

Building dimensions give insights into the size and layout, impacting energy use and heating or cooling needs. Insulation levels are essential because they determine how well the home retains heat in the winter and remains cool in the summer, directly affecting energy consumption. Window specifications provide information on their efficiency, including aspects like solar gain and thermal performance. Lastly, mechanical system details help the rater understand how the heating, cooling, and ventilation systems operate, which is vital for assessing the overall energy efficiency of the home.

This specific data is foundational for generating accurate energy ratings and identifying opportunities for improving efficiency, which aligns with the goal of the HERS rating system. Collecting this information ensures that the energy rating reflects the actual performance of the home.