This document discusses how to build a home to get a better Home Energy Rating System (HERS) rating through various energy efficiency measures. It outlines major components that affect the HERS rating like air sealing, insulation levels, equipment choices, and lighting/appliances. It then provides tips for each stage of construction from the foundation to attic to focus on proper drainage, insulation, air sealing, and ventilation. Choosing efficient windows, doors, equipment, and following through on small details can all contribute to an improved HERS rating and a more energy efficient home.

1. How to get a better HERS rating
Really it is about how to build a
better house
Chet Pasho
November 3, 2010
www.preferredbuildings.com

2. Major components of a HERS rating
• Air sealing
• Insulation levels
• Thermal bridging
• Ventilation
• Equipment choices – heating, cooling,
• Lighting
• Appliances

3. Before you start digging
Enroll your new home in the ENERGY STAR
program .
Get a plan review.
Develop strategies to improve the performance
of your new home.

4. Start at the foundation
• Proper drainage and backfill
• Radon collection
• Insulate the foundation walls
• Insulate the slab
• Air seal the foundation
• Air seal the sill

5. Air sealing – how important is it really?
• Heat loss
• Moisture transfer

6. Floor to wall connections

7. Air sealing walls
• Air tight drywall

8. Attic air sealing..
• Access panels
• Pipes
• Wires
• Partitions
• Chimneys
• ducts

9. Attic air sealing-why is it important?

10. “Filtered air”

12. Pipes and wires

13. Insulation- what kind?
• Fiberglass
• Cellulose
• Spray foams
• Sheet foams
• Hay bales

14. Insulation – how much?

15. Windows and doors
• U values
• SHGC values
• Infiltration rates

16. Thermal bridging???

17. OVE framing

18. Insulated sheathings

19. Why ventilate?
• Moisture control
• Odors
• VOC’s
• Radon

20. How much to ventilate?

21. What equipment to use?
• Exhaust only
• Balanced ventilation
• HRV/ERV

22. No silver bullet
• Attention to small details
• Educate your customers
• Educate subs
• Educate your crew
• Create ownership and enthusiasm
• Throw a party
• Market the energy efficiency of your homes