There are a number of reasons why this is important, but first and foremost, is the quality assurance from the governing agencies.  The standards these organizations have developed ensure that a level of consistency and safety is always maintained, and that the results a client receives can be acted upon with confidence. Having these standards allows for simple verification by a separate third party or quality assurance provider, both of which adds the extra layer of confidence that what you are getting is what you were told and are expecting.

 

Beware of the “free energy audit”!! These are normally not the same kind of "whole house" assessment that a certified and accredited energy professional will perform on your building. Simply ask for the credentials and be wary if they are trying to sell a specific product (i.e. radiant barrier, HVAC, power correction device, etc...), this is usually the tell-tale sign that it is only a foot in the door to sell you the product “that will be your key to savings”. Remember, if it is too good to be true, it probably is!

 

The two organizations in the United States that have developed nationally recognized systems to evaluate energy usage in buildings are Resnet and BPI. Achieving certification from either program involves rigorous testing on building science and thermodynamics fundamentals, a thorough knowledge of sound building practices,  a solid understanding of how to analyze a building’s energy usage, and most importantly the health and safety issues to focus on in buildings.

 

 

BPI (Building Performance Institute)

 

The Building Performance Institute’s Building Analyst and Shell Professional certifications are two of the certificates offered that are based upon a broad Building Science curriculum. BPI certified professionals draw on their solid scientific foundation of knowledge to accurately access the health, safety, durability and efficiency of existing buildings.   BPI Analysts and Shell Professionals, in addition to testing the air-tightness of the structure with the use of the blower door, also test the safety of all combustion appliances in use and perform an overall analysis of the structure. The motto of all BPI certified professionals is “Do No Harm” – to the occupants, the structure or the earth.

 

BPI implements their quality assurance by random testing and via a complaint hotline within the organization.  Our licensing and careers depend on us doing what is right all of the time!

 

Further information about BPI can be found at their website: www.bpi.org

 

 

The Home Energy Rating System is a nationally recognized certification that has been developed as a standardized numerical system to help inform homeowner’s about the energy efficiency of their current or prospective home.

 

A detailed analysis of the home’s features (design, materials, orientation, etc…) is entered into a software program along with diagnostic data (air-tightness, duct leakage, insulation levels, etc…) and produces a numerical rating number that is compared to a house built to the IECC standards (International Energy Conservation Code). 

 

The rating number allows you to understand how your house stacks up vs. Energy Star qualified homes and the standard construction of the past. The HERS rater can also offer expert recommendations on the best way to improve and reduce energy costs of the rated home.

 

Elm Energy Group uses Energy Vanguard as their HERS rating provider. Energy Vanguard oversees all of our ratings and does the quality assurance that adds the extra level of confidence and control in our industry.

 

Further information about HERS and Resnet can be found at: www.resnet.us