HERS Energy Modeling and Analysis 2

Question 1

In REM/Rate energy modeling software, what does the 'Reference Home' represent?

Accepted Answer

A code-minimum baseline home built to IECC specifications used to calculate the HERS Index

Answer

The most energy-efficient home in a neighborhood

Answer

The average energy consumption of homes in the same climate zone

Answer

The builder's own home used as a comparison benchmark

Question 2

Which input parameter has the greatest single influence on modeled heating energy consumption in a cold climate home?

Accepted Answer

Envelope air leakage (ACH50)

Answer

Window solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC)

Answer

Wall assembly R-value

Answer

Heating system efficiency (AFUE)

Question 3

What is the purpose of the 'normalized modified end-use loads' (nMEUL) calculation in HERS rating?

Accepted Answer

To adjust end-use loads to account for equipment efficiency and fuel type for Index calculation

Answer

To estimate occupant utility bills

Answer

To compare homes of different square footages on a per-square-foot basis

Answer

To normalize energy use across different climate zones

Question 4

A rater models a home with R-38 attic insulation in a mixed-humid climate. The software shows cooling energy is higher than expected. Which input should be checked first?

Accepted Answer

Duct location and leakage values

Answer

Attic insulation R-value entry

Answer

Window U-factor

Answer

Foundation wall insulation

Question 5

In energy modeling, what is 'latent load' and why does it matter in humid climates?

Accepted Answer

The energy required to remove moisture from indoor air, which drives cooling equipment sizing and runtime

Answer

The structural weight load on HVAC equipment

Answer

The delayed response of a thermal mass wall to temperature changes

Answer

The standby energy consumed by HVAC controls

Question 6

When entering window properties into energy modeling software, which combination of values most completely describes thermal and solar performance?

Accepted Answer

U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC)

Answer

R-value and visible transmittance (VT)

Answer

SHGC and emissivity

Answer

Glazing area and frame material

Question 7

A HERS rater discovers that the modeled home's mechanical ventilation rate is set to zero in the software. What is the most likely consequence for the HERS Index?

Accepted Answer

The Index will be artificially low because ventilation energy is not counted

Answer

The Index will be artificially high because the model assumes more infiltration to meet IAQ needs

Answer

There is no effect because ventilation is not part of the HERS rating

Answer

The Index will be accurate if the home's air leakage is below 3 ACH50