Certified Energy Auditor Certification Certified Energy Auditor Data Collection and Analysis Questions and Answers 3

Question 1

What is the recommended method for measuring the air infiltration rate of an existing commercial building during an energy audit?

Accepted Answer

Blower door depressurization test

Answer

Visual inspection of window seals only

Answer

Reviewing the original construction drawings

Answer

Calculating from the building's age and type

Question 2

An auditor discovers that a building's energy use intensity (EUI) is 120 kBtu/sq ft/year while the ENERGY STAR median for the same building type is 85 kBtu/sq ft/year. How should this finding be categorized?

Accepted Answer

The building has moderate energy savings potential of approximately 29%

Answer

The building is performing above average and needs no improvements

Answer

The EUI comparison is meaningless without degree day adjustment

Answer

The building should be immediately condemned as energy deficient

Question 3

Which instrument is most appropriate for measuring the combustion efficiency of a natural gas boiler during a field audit?

Accepted Answer

Portable flue gas analyzer measuring O2 and CO

Answer

Infrared thermometer pointed at the boiler jacket

Answer

Clamp-on ammeter on the burner motor

Answer

Ultrasonic flow meter on the gas supply line

Question 4

When analyzing time-of-use electricity billing data, an auditor notices that 40% of energy consumption occurs during on-peak periods. What type of energy conservation measure should be prioritized?

Accepted Answer

Implementing load shifting or demand response strategies

Answer

Installing additional lighting fixtures

Answer

Increasing the building's base electrical load

Answer

Replacing all gas equipment with electric alternatives

Question 5

What is the most reliable method for determining the actual operating efficiency of a chiller in the field?

Accepted Answer

Measuring condenser and evaporator water temperatures and flow rates along with power input

Answer

Using the manufacturer's rated COP from the nameplate

Answer

Estimating from the chiller's age and refrigerant type

Answer

Reading the building automation system trend logs only

Question 6

During data collection, an auditor finds that a building's electric demand profile shows a consistent 150 kW load between 11 PM and 5 AM when the building is unoccupied. What does this suggest?

Accepted Answer

An opportunity to investigate and reduce unnecessary base load energy waste

Answer

Normal operation since buildings always consume some energy at night

Answer

The meters are malfunctioning and should be replaced

Answer

The building's HVAC system is properly cycling overnight