Certified Energy Auditor Certification Energy Audit Process 5

Question 1

An energy auditor reviews a facility's demand charges and finds they represent 40% of the total electric bill. What strategy should be prioritized?

Accepted Answer

Implement peak demand management through load shifting and demand response

Answer

When demand charges are a large portion of utility costs, strategies that flatten peak demand — such as load shifting, storage, and demand response — provide the greatest bill savings.

Question 2

What is the primary function of an energy model calibration during a detailed (Level III) energy audit?

Accepted Answer

To tune the simulation model so it matches actual measured utility data within accepted tolerances

Answer

Calibration adjusts model inputs until simulated energy use matches actual utility data (ASHRAE Guideline 14 requires ±15% NMBE and ±30% CV(RMSE)), ensuring reliable ECM savings predictions.

Question 3

Which parameter does a duct pressurization test (duct blaster) specifically measure?

Accepted Answer

Airflow leakage from the duct system at a standardized pressure

Answer

A duct blaster pressurizes the duct system to 25 Pa and measures the airflow required to maintain that pressure, quantifying total duct leakage in CFM25.

Question 4

An auditor identifies that a compressed air system has a system pressure of 120 psi, but end uses only require 90 psi. What ECM should be recommended?

Accepted Answer

Reduce system operating pressure to match actual end-use requirements

Answer

Compressor power increases with discharge pressure; reducing system pressure by 10 psi typically saves approximately 5% in compressor energy, so matching pressure to actual needs yields significant savings.

Question 5

During an audit, an auditor finds that the building automation system (BAS) setback schedule is not functioning and the building is conditioned to occupied setpoints 24/7. Which action provides the most direct immediate energy savings recommendation?

Accepted Answer

Repair or reprogram the BAS to implement nighttime and weekend temperature setbacks

Answer

Restoring HVAC setback schedules during unoccupied periods is a no/low-cost operational measure that can reduce heating and cooling energy by 10–25% with immediate effect.

Certified Energy Auditor Certification Practice Test

Certified Energy Auditor Certification Practice Test

Certified Energy Auditor Certification Energy Audit Process 5