Home Energy Rater Training Agenda


Online Training

This intensive, 36-hour training is delivered over two weeks via twelve 3-hour daily webinars. The training is synchronous – all sessions are live with a trainer, so that student interaction is high. Students learn how to use energy modeling software and the training includes daily quizzes and homework assignments.

Modules: Each module is a class of 3 hours in length. Below is a brief outline of the content covered in each module.

  • Module I: Introduction
    • Introductions/overview
    • Introduction to RESNET, Ratings, ENERGY STAR, and Mortgages
    • House as a system/Introduction to Building Performance
    • RESNET Standards, reference home
  • Module II: Building Science
    • Baseload consumption and efficiency
    • Building airflow and Blower Door
  • Module III: Building Envelope – Thermal
    • Thermal Boundary
    • Insulation Properties (durability, R-value, U-factor, etc.)
    • Conductive transfer calculations
  • Module IV: Building Envelope – Pressure
    • Blower door testing
    • Zonal pressure diagnostics
    • Economics of air sealing
    • Interactions with comfort, health, and durability
  • Module V: Mechanical systems
    • Heating & cooling system
    • Load calculations, AHRI, duct testing
  • Module VI: Ventilation and Distribution
    • Ventilation systems, ASHRAE, testing
  • Module VII: Combustion Safety
    • Health and safety testing
    • Required Interplay RESCAZ software simulation for student practice
    • Demo of software and relation to standards
  • Module VIII: Math and Measurements
    • Math for ratings
    • Plan take-offs, field data collection
  • Module IX: Software Modeling and Ratings
    • Energy modeling overview
    • REMRate data entry, reports
  • Module X: RESNET Practical Simulation
    • Performing a HERS rating using the required practical simulation software
  • Module XI: Ratings from Plans
    • Create REM model from provided plans
  • Module XII: Rating Process, Quality Assurance, and Review

 

Classroom/Field Week 

  • Pre-class requirements:
    • Register and complete NEHERS 36-hour online course
    • Pass online test for each module (must be within 12-months of class date)
    • Completed RESCaz tutorials
    • Completed assigned practice rating
  • Class schedule:
    • Day 1: Online
      • Subject review
      • Work on model from plans
      • RESCaz Exam
    • Day 2: Travel day
    • Day 3: In field
      • Field data collection for Confirmed Rating
      • Test each rater on use of equipment
    • Day 4:
      • Model Field House
      • Rater Simulation Practical Exam
    • Day 5:
      • Review
      • Complete/work on model(s)
      • RESNET Rater Standard Exam
      • Optional retest for RESCaz Exam
      • If Rating from Plans or Confirmed Rating not completed by end of Day 5 they must be submitted to trainer within 7 days