HERS Index

“zero is greater™”

The HERS (Home Energy Rating System) Index, as provided by the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) or other certified HERS raters, is an energy-efficiency scoring system based on the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).
The HERS Index was developed by the US Department of Energy to streamline verification of a building’s relative energy production versus consumption. It is the recognized standard.

A building is scored from zero to one hundred, where each point equals a 1% increase in energy consumption. So, a home with an excellent HERS Index of 50 uses half the energy of a home that scores an Index of 100, the 2006 IECC code minimum. A Net-Zero Energy Home has a HERS rating of 0 (zero) and consumes no more energy than it produces in the course of a year.

thE hERS INDEX IS A hOME’S vERIFIAblE MPG CAlCUlAtION!

With state-of-the-art design and building science engineering, high-performance homes can save a significant amount of energy and even more when employing energy-producing technology, such as solar thermal (hot water) and photovoltaic systems.

A Team Systems Approach engaging the home designer, building science engineer and builder is an effective approach to achieving great results with a low HERS Index. The process begins at the drawing board by analyzing:

1. The home’s placement on the lot, the AC/heating delivery systems, over-hangs for shading, etc.
2. Construction methods that allow for sufficient insulation, yielding required R-Value in the walls, flooring, attic, ceilings, etc.
3. The building materials such as windows, doors, flooring, ceiling fans, appliances, etc. Using the latest software, a RESNET or Building Science professional can accurately estimate a home’s energy usage before it is built, and provide consultation before and after the home is completed.
4. Verify energy efficiency and overall “Air Tightness” of the home.

WhY bUIlD AN ENERGY StAR OR EvEN A NEt-ZERO ENERGY hOME?

• Significantly reduce or even eliminate costly energy bills.
• Qualify for a more favorable Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM).
• Better air quality and a more comfortable home for your family.
• Reduce the impact on the environment with a more sustainable home.

YOU WOUlD NOt bUY A CAR WIthOUt RESEARChING ItS MPG.

WhY ShOUlD YOUR NEXt hOME bE ANY DIFFERENt?