HERS Diagnostics & Performance Testing 2

Question 1

During a duct leakage test, the technician measures a Qn (duct leakage to outside) of 0.12. What does this indicate?

Accepted Answer

Duct leakage exceeds typical Energy Star thresholds

Answer

A Qn of 0.12 (12% of system airflow) is well above typical Energy Star thresholds of 0.06 or 6%, indicating excessive duct leakage.

Question 2

What instrument is used to measure airflow at individual supply and return registers during a HERS field verification?

Accepted Answer

Flow hood (balometer)

Answer

A flow hood (balometer) is placed over a register to directly measure the airflow volume in CFM at each supply or return grille.

Question 3

A house tests at 4.2 ACH50 on the blower door. If the HERS Index target requires ≤3.0 ACH50, what is the next appropriate step?

Accepted Answer

Identify and air seal leakage sites, then retest

Answer

The rater must locate air leakage pathways using smoke sticks or infrared imaging, perform air sealing, and retest to confirm compliance.

Question 4

Which of the following best describes the purpose of a pressure pan test?

Accepted Answer

Identifies which duct branches are leaking by pressurizing individual registers

Answer

A pressure pan (blocking pan) placed over a register and connected to a manometer identifies leaky duct sections by showing elevated pressure relative to the house.

Question 5

When testing for combustion safety, a technician measures a Carbon Monoxide (CO) concentration of 35 ppm in the appliance flue gas. What action is required?

Accepted Answer

Immediately shut down the appliance and notify the owner

Answer

A CO reading of 35 ppm in the flue is dangerously elevated; the appliance must be shut down and the owner notified before continuing the inspection.

(HERS) Home Energy Rater Certification Practice Test

(HERS) Home Energy Rater Certification Practice Test

HERS Diagnostics & Performance Testing 2