Energy Auditing Flashcards

What condition must be created before performing a worst-case combustion appliance zone (CAZ) depressurization test?

Answer: All exhaust fans operating and all interior doors open

Worst-case conditions are simulated by operating all exhaust fans simultaneously with interior doors open to maximize depressurization potential.

In BPI auditing protocols, what is the maximum CO level allowed in ambient air before beginning combustion appliance testing?

Answer: 9 ppm

BPI requires ambient CO to be at or below 9 ppm before any combustion testing begins to ensure accurate baseline readings.

Which insulation characteristic describes resistance to heat flow per unit thickness?

Answer: K-value (thermal conductivity)

K-value (thermal conductivity) expresses how readily a material conducts heat per unit thickness; lower K-values indicate better insulating properties.

A BPI energy auditor discovers that attic bypass paths exist around recessed lights. What energy issue does this primarily cause?

Answer: Air leakage and thermal bypass reducing attic insulation effectiveness

Recessed light cans that penetrate the ceiling create both air leakage pathways and thermal bypasses that dramatically undermine attic insulation performance.

What is the primary purpose of a pressure pan test during a duct leakage assessment?

Answer: Locate which registers have the greatest duct leakage

A pressure pan test covers each register while the blower door depressurizes the home, and readings indicate which ducts are leaking to outside.

According to BPI standards, what minimum R-value is typically recommended for attic insulation in a mixed-humid US climate zone (Zone 4)?

Answer: R-49

BPI and DOE guidelines recommend R-49 for attic insulation in Climate Zone 4 to meet cost-effective energy efficiency targets.

What does 'infiltration' refer to in a building energy context?

Answer: Uncontrolled air leakage into the building from outside

Infiltration is uncontrolled air movement into the building through gaps and cracks, driven by pressure differences from wind, stack effect, or mechanical systems.