Based upon these principles you will be able to evaluate any home’s energy performance and offer suggestions for improvements. You will learn how to utilize powerful diagnostic equipment and updated software to aid you in the energy analysis. You will also learn the latest energy finance and incentive programs that can help you expand your business.

Taking this course is the first step toward becoming a Certified Home Energy Rater. As an energy rater, you will be able to produce energy rating reports that will help home buyers and homeowners qualify for financing incentives through a variety of private and government loan programs. This course complies with the Mortgage Industry National Home Energy Rating System Accreditation Standard which has been adopted by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and the National Association of State Energy Officials.

What You Will Learn

• An understanding of how the house works as a system
• Principles of heat, air, and moisture transfer
• How to use state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment (including Blower Door and Duct Blaster)
• How to produce a complete home energy analysis using REM/RateT software
• How to create or expand your business using the home energy rating system
• How to certify an ENERGY STAR® home
• Compliance, promotion and financial incentives for utility-sponsored programs

Certification Requirements
To receive your official energy rater certification you will need the following:

• A demonstrated understanding of the entire rating process.
• Contract with a HERS provider in your state.
• Satisfactory completion of 4 energy ratings, two of which are completed during the course. The additional 2 must be submitted within 12 months of the last day of the course.
• A score of 80% or higher on the RESNET National Rater Test. This electronic test will be given at the end of the workshop.

Who are Southface Home Energy Rating System Trainers

Southface HERS trainers include, L-R, Abe Kruger, Mike Barcik and Laura Uhde.

Mike Barck - Senior Research Engineer and the Director of Technical Services at Southace. He is LEED faculty member and certified RESNET Trainer. Mike has expertise in energy performance modeling, codes and building diagnostics.

Abe Kruger - Residential Green Building Services Project Manager at Southface. Abe manages the HERS Providership and is a certified RESNET Trainer. Abe also performs HERS ratings, load calculations, and other services.

Laura Uhde - Residential Green Building Serivces Director at Southface. Laura administers our EarthCraft House, Home Services, Existing Homes and Multifamily programs. Laura conducts several trainings for Southface including the EarthCraft House Builder, EarthCraft House Realtor, Mold and Moisture, HVAC for Builders and Home Energy Rating trainings. Laura is certified as a RESNET Trainer, Universal Refrigerant Technician and an eScan operator.