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HERS Ratings in CT for Builders: A Game-Changer for Energy Efficiency

Writer's picture: Onega Inspection Services, LLCOnega Inspection Services, LLC

Updated: Jan 25

If you are a builder in Connecticut looking to improve the energy efficiency and comfort of your residential new builds, obtaining a HERS rating can be a game-changer. HERS, or the Home Energy Rating System, is a standardized method of measuring and comparing the energy performance of homes.

What is a HERS Rating?

A HERS rating is conducted by a certified RESNET professional who performs a series of tests and inspections to evaluate a home’s energy performance. These include:

Blower Door Test

This test measures how much air leaks in and out of your home, identifying areas that need better sealing to enhance energy efficiency.

Energy Modeling

This simulates your home’s energy use based on factors like its design, orientation, insulation, appliances, lighting, and more. Ekotrope is a common energy modeling software that HERS raters utilize.

The data from these tests are used to calculate your home’s HERS index, a score ranging from 0 to 150. A lower score indicates greater energy efficiency:

  • A typical existing home in the U.S. scores around 140.

  • A standard new home scores approximately 100.

  • A net-zero energy home, which produces as much energy as it consumes, scores 0.


HERS Index chart showing energy costs from high (red) to low (green). Typical existing home at 140, new home at 100, zero energy at 0.
The HERS Index

The Benefits of a HERS Rating

Incorporating HERS ratings into your builds not only ensures compliance with energy efficiency standards but also boosts marketability by offering buyers homes that are both cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Here’s why you should get a HERS rating:

  • Identify Energy Loss: Pinpoint areas where your home is losing energy and money and receive recommendations to fix them.

  • Access Incentives: Qualify for rebates, incentives, and tax credits from utility companies and state and federal programs that reward energy efficiency improvements. Currently, Eversouce and United Illuminating provide builder incentives through the CT RNC program.

  • Boost Market Value: Increase the value and marketability of your home as more buyers seek homes with lower energy costs and environmental impact.

  • Reduce Environmental Impact: Lower your carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment.

HERS Ratings and Code Compliance in Connecticut

Connecticut has adopted the latest version of the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), which sets the minimum standards for energy efficiency in new construction and major renovations.

Key Requirements:

  • All new homes must have a Blower door test.

  • If a builder wants to take advantage of the RNC incentives they must have a HERS rating. New homes must meet or exceed a maximum HERS index of 55.

These requirements ensure that new homes in Connecticut are built to high standards of energy efficiency and comfort.

Finding a Certified HERS Rater

If you are interested in getting a HERS rating for your new build in Connecticut, you can find certified raters through:

  • RESNET (Residential Energy Services Network): The national organization overseeing the HERS rating system.

  • Energize Connecticut: A local resource for energy efficiency programs and services.

Certified raters have undergone rigorous training and testing to ensure accurate and reliable ratings for your home. They can also assist you in applying for any rebates or incentives available based on your HERS rating.

Why Choose Onega Inspection Services?

As a certified HERS rating company, Onega Inspection Services can help you:

  • Improve the energy efficiency of your builds.

  • Ensure compliance with Connecticut’s energy codes.

  • Provide your clients with homes that are cost-effective, comfortable, and environmentally friendly.

Contact Us

If you’re ready to get started with a HERS rating for your project, please contact Onega Inspection Services. We’re here to help you build homes that stand out for their energy efficiency and value.

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Onega Inspection Services, LLC is a full service home inspection company which also provides HERS Ratings in Connecticut and Rhode Island

We are a local and family owned business located in Danbury, CT.

LICENSES

& CERTIFICATIONS

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Connecticut Licensed Home Inspector #HOI.0001084

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Rhode Island Licensed Home Inspector #44179

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ASHI Certified Home Inspector ACI#257065

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InterNACHI Certified Professional Inspector, NACHI #17030147

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Licensed Pest Inspector #7650

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Certified Radon Professional

NRPP ID#111457-RT

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Certified Radon Analytical Service CRM00044

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FAA Certified, #4631436

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Certified HERS Rater, ID# 3669204

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PO Box 2084

Danbury CT 06813

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(203) 744-9227

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