home energy ratings
homeowners and homebuyers
Florida state certified energy raters use a Home Energy Rating System (HERS) to help homeowners and homebuyers maximize energy efficiency and energy savings. The cost of heating and cooling is the most significant expense of running a home after the mortgage payment. Through a home energy rating, homeowners can identify cost-effective strategies for improving energy efficiency and homebuyers can determine if a home on the market is energy efficient.
A home energy rating differs from an energy audit. There is also a distinction between home energy raters and energy auditors. Florida state certified raters must go through extensive classroom and hands-on training as well as pass state and national exams in order to be classified a class 1 energy rater in the state of Florida. In turn, home energy ratings are much more comprehensive and standardized, so the results are recognized by appraisers, lenders and both state and federal energy programs.
A home energy rating involves an on-site inspection of a home to measure its energy characteristics, including insulation levels, window efficiency, the heating and cooling systems and the water heating system. We conduct a blower door test to find out where air is leaking from the house and a duct test to find out where air is leaking from the ducts. Finally, we do a computer analysis from all the data gathered and apply a home energy rating.
The home receives a score between 1 and 100 that is equated to a “Star” rating ranging from 1 to 5, with 5 stars for a highly efficient home. The rating certificate lists existing conditions, recommended improvements, cost of improvements, projected savings per year and expected payback of upgrades. A benefit to cost ratio is provided for each improvement. Homeowners receive an “as is” rating, a projected rating after improvements and can prioritize the most cost-effective improvements.
Only home energy ratings (not audits) can verify energy performance for the EPA’s ENERGY STAR Homes Program and qualify buyers for energy efficient mortgages (EEM’s) and homeowners for an energy improvement mortgage.
An energy efficient mortgage considers the expected energy savings of a new energy efficient home and the decreased operating costs allows borrowers to qualify for higher mortgages.
An energy improvement mortgage considers the costs and savings associated with energy improvements and allows homeowners to finance the upgrades through their mortgage.
Below are some samples of the different types of reports Demco Energy has available. These reports cover code compliance through sales and financing. We think you’ll be impressed with the array of support we can provide to meet our specific needs.
sample energy performance display card
builders
Demco Energy has two Florida licensed building contactors on staff along with our Florida certified energy raters. We understand the fast-paced construction process and can seamlessly integrate into any schedule. We can work directly with your other trades and inspectors to achieve the energy rating you need. We also offer solar water heating system sales and installations at reduced new construction costs. Demco Energy can meet any deadline or demand that may arise.