Why is it important for HERS raters to be aware of occupant behavior?

Understanding occupant behavior is crucial for HERS raters because it has a direct impact on actual energy usage in a home. The way occupants engage with their home environments—such as their heating and cooling preferences, appliance use, and overall lifestyle—significantly influences the energy consumption patterns of the household.

For instance, if a home is evaluated under the assumption that occupants will maintain a consistent temperature throughout the day, but they actually prefer a fluctuating temperature or frequently open windows, this discrepancy will affect the total energy utilized. Consequently, accurate assessments and energy ratings must take into account these behavioral aspects to provide a true reflection of the home's energy performance.

This focus on occupant behavior allows for more tailored energy efficiency recommendations and can lead to more effective energy-saving strategies, ultimately leading to better energy ratings and increased homeowner satisfaction.