AFE Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield AFE facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. A facility's boiler stack temperature has increased by 50°F over the past year with no change in load. What is the most probable cause? → Fouled heat transfer surfaces (soot or scale) reducing heat absorption
2. Which condition-monitoring technique uses sound waves to detect bearing defects and lubrication issues? → Ultrasonic testing
3. Which scenario represents a violation of the Association for Facilities Engineering Certification code of professional conduct? → Misrepresenting qualifications or certification status
4. What is the purpose of a Facilities Condition Index (FCI)? → To provide a standardized metric for comparing the relative condition of facilities
5. In Association for Facilities Engineering Certification practice, what is the FIRST step when a safety hazard is identified in the workplace? → Immediately secure the area and report the hazard
6. A AFE professional discovers a conflict of interest in a current assignment. What is the MOST ethical course of action? → Disclose the conflict immediately and recuse if necessary
7. In M&V (Measurement & Verification) per IPMVP, what is the purpose of 'Option C: Whole Facility'? → Determining savings by analyzing utility meter data before and after ECM installation
8. What is the PRIMARY purpose of obtaining AFE certification in Association for Facilities Engineering Certification? → To demonstrate verified competency and adherence to professional standards
9. Which OSHA regulation requires employers to develop and implement a written Hazard Communication Program? → 29 CFR 1910.1200
10. In a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS), the primary purpose of an asset hierarchy is to: → Organize assets by location and system for efficient planning and reporting
11. What is the purpose of a backlog in a maintenance management program? → To serve as a managed queue of approved work awaiting scheduling and resources
12. Which type of fire suppression system is best suited for a data center to minimize equipment damage? → Clean agent (e.g., FM-200 or Novec 1230)
13. Under ASHRAE 90.1, which building system is addressed by the lighting power density (LPD) requirements? → Interior and exterior electrical lighting
14. A facilities manager is reviewing an electrical single-line diagram. What does a dashed line typically represent? → Future or proposed equipment not yet installed
15. In energy management, what does the term 'energy use intensity' (EUI) measure? → Total energy consumed per square foot of building area annually
16. What is the purpose of a 'lockout/tagout' (LOTO) program in facilities maintenance? → To prevent the accidental energization of equipment during maintenance or servicing
17. Which foundational principle is MOST important for success in Association for Facilities Engineering Certification? → Commitment to continuous learning, ethical practice, and quality outcomes
18. Which OSHA standard establishes requirements for personal fall arrest systems used during construction activities at heights of 6 feet or more? → 29 CFR 1926.502
19. Under the IBC, which occupancy classification applies to a building used primarily for storage of moderate-hazard materials? → Group S-1
20. Which ISO standard provides the framework for establishing an Energy Management System (EnMS)? → ISO 50001
21. Which LEED credit category specifically addresses the reduction of water consumption in building operations? → Water Efficiency
22. In predictive maintenance, infrared thermography is primarily used to identify: → Abnormal heat patterns indicating electrical or mechanical faults
23. Which foundational principle is MOST important for success in Association for Facilities Engineering Certification? → Commitment to continuous learning, ethical practice, and quality outcomes
24. What is a lockout/tagout procedure? → Control hazardous energy
25. How does the AFE body of knowledge relate to daily professional practice? → It provides the foundational framework guiding decision-making and standard practices
26. A facilities engineer reviews a steam trap survey and finds that 15% of traps are failed-open. What is the primary energy consequence? → Live steam is continuously vented to atmosphere, wasting fuel and boiler capacity
27. What is the maximum noise exposure level permitted by OSHA (29 CFR 1910.95) for an 8-hour workday without requiring hearing protection? → 90 dBA
28. In a building envelope assessment, what does a high air leakage result from a blower door test indicate? → Significant uncontrolled infiltration pathways that increase heating and cooling loads
29. Which personal protective equipment (PPE) principle applies to ALL AFE certified professionals regardless of their specific role? → PPE must be properly fitted, maintained, and replaced as needed
30. A facility manager notices that a chiller's coefficient of performance (COP) has dropped from 5.2 to 3.8 over six months. What is the most likely cause? → Condenser fouling reducing heat transfer