HERS HERS HVAC Systems and Equipment Evaluation 2

Question 1

A HERS rater finds duct leakage to outside of 8% of system airflow. Under RESNET standards, how is this reported?

Accepted Answer

Pass — within the 10% default allowance

Answer

RESNET allows a 10% duct leakage to outside default, so 8% passes the verified leakage threshold.

Question 2

What does a high static pressure reading in a forced-air HVAC system indicate to a HERS rater?

Accepted Answer

There is likely restricted airflow due to undersized ducts or a dirty filter

Answer

High static pressure indicates restricted airflow, commonly caused by undersized duct work or a clogged air filter.

Question 3

Which fuel source typically yields the lowest HERS Index score (best rating) for space heating in a cold U.S. climate?

Accepted Answer

Air-source heat pump at HSPF 10

Answer

A high-efficiency air-source heat pump moves 2–4 units of heat per unit of electricity, delivering a lower HERS Index than combustion heating.

Question 4

During a HERS inspection, a rater verifies that a new home uses an HRV. What is the primary energy benefit of an HRV over exhaust-only ventilation?

Accepted Answer

It recovers heat from exhaust air to pre-condition incoming fresh air

Answer

An HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator) transfers heat from outgoing stale air to incoming fresh air, reducing heating energy loss.

Question 5

A HERS rater is verifying a geothermal heat pump installation. Which performance metric is most relevant for its heating mode efficiency?

Accepted Answer

COP

Answer

Geothermal (ground-source) heat pump heating efficiency is rated by COP (Coefficient of Performance).

(HERS) Certified Home Energy Rating System Rater Practice Test