A home energy rating involves an analysis of a home's layout/design and onsite inspections. We use a software package to perform an energy analysis of your home. We then conduct a blower door test (to test the leakiness of the house) and a duct test (to test the leakiness of the ducts). Results of these tests, along with inputs derived from the layout/design review, are used to generate the HERS Index score for your home.

HERS ENERGY RATINGS

The HERS Index is a scoring system established by the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) in which a home built to the specifications of the HERS Reference Home (based on the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code) scores a HERS Index of 100, while a net zero energy home scores a HERS Index of 0. The lower a home's HERS Index, the more energy efficient it is in comparison to the HERS Reference Home.

Each 1-point decrease in the HERS Index corresponds to a 1% reduction in energy consumption compared to the HERS Reference Home. Thus a home with a HERS Index of 85 is 15% more energy efficient than the HERS Reference Home and a home with a HERS Index of 80 is 20% more energy efficient.

Energy Rating Benefits
When purchasing a home a energy rating allows you to compare homes in relation to their energy efficiency.

• A energy rating is mandatory when qualifying for an energy efficient mortgage (EEM).
• A energy rating is mandatory for a home to be labeled as ENERGY STAR.
• Energy ratings can help qualify your home for certain rebates.

For more information on HERS energy ratings, visit the RESNET web site.

ENERGY STAR
We are proud to provide rating services to qualify new homes for the ENERGY STAR® label. ENERGY STAR qualified new homes are substantially more energy efficient than homes built to the minimum code requirements. Even in states with more rigorous energy codes, the U.S. EPA ensures that ENERGY STAR remains the symbol for truly energy-efficient performance. These homes are good for businesses, consumers, and the environment.

Benefits of owning an ENERGY STAR qualified new home include:

A Label Backed by the Government
All ENERGY STAR qualified new homes are certified to meet EPA's strict guidelines for energy efficiency. This exemplary performance is verified by an independent third party.

Lower Utility Costs
Compared with standard homes, ENERGY STAR qualified new homes use substantially less energy for heating, cooling, and hot water heating. Homeowners can expect to save about $200-$400 annually on their utility bills.

More Comfortable/Quieter Homes
The energy-efficient features of ENERGY STAR qualified new homes keep out excessive heat, cold, and noise, and ensure consistent temperatures between and across rooms-making these homes more comfortable to live in.

Helping to Create a Better Future
By purchasing an ENERGY STAR qualified new home, you are joining millions of consumers who have changed to ENERGY STAR, helping our nation reduce our energy needs and building a cleaner environment for the future.

Learn more about ENERGY STAR qualified new homes at http://www.energystar.gov