Which key component is NOT typically reviewed by HERS Raters?

HERS Raters primarily focus on the components of a home that directly affect its energy efficiency and performance. These components include insulation, windows, and heating and cooling systems. Each of these plays a significant role in a home's energy consumption, thermal integrity, and overall comfort.

Insulation is assessed to determine how well it prevents heat transfer, which greatly impacts heating and cooling costs. Windows are evaluated for their performance characteristics, such as U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient, which can significantly influence a home's energy needs. Heating and cooling systems are examined to check their efficiency ratings and proper installation, further affecting the overall energy performance and comfort of the home.

On the other hand, landscaping is generally outside the scope of HERS ratings. While landscaping can influence a home's energy use—such as through shading or windbreak effects—it is not a structural or mechanical component that directly affects the energy performance of the building envelope or its systematic operations. Thus, it is not typically reviewed by HERS Raters during the energy rating process. This distinction allows HERS Raters to focus their efforts on evaluating the integral parts of the home that are critical to energy efficiency.