HERS Energy Modeling Software 3

Question 1

In HERS rating software, how is the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) of windows used in the energy model?

Accepted Answer

It quantifies solar energy transmitted through the glass, affecting cooling and heating loads

Answer

SHGC determines what fraction of solar radiation passes through the window, directly affecting the model's solar gain calculations for heating and cooling.

Question 2

A rater is modeling a home with two HVAC systems serving different zones. How should this be entered in REM/Rate?

Accepted Answer

Enter each system separately and assign the conditioned area each system serves

Answer

REM/Rate supports multiple HVAC systems, and each should be entered separately with its served area to accurately model zoned performance.

Question 3

Which of the following correctly describes how HERS software handles a heat pump water heater?

Accepted Answer

It is entered with an Energy Factor or Uniform Energy Factor reflecting its COP-based efficiency

Answer

Heat pump water heaters are entered with their EF or UEF rating, which captures their higher efficiency compared to electric resistance units.

Question 4

When modeling mechanical ventilation in REM/Rate, what information is required to correctly characterize an HRV?

Accepted Answer

CFM capacity, sensible heat recovery efficiency, and fan watt draw

Answer

HRV modeling requires airflow rate, sensible recovery efficiency, and fan power consumption to accurately calculate ventilation energy impact.

Question 5

What is the effect of entering a lower heating system AFUE in HERS software?

Accepted Answer

The HERS Index increases because more fuel is consumed per unit of heat delivered

Answer

Lower AFUE means the furnace wastes more energy as exhaust heat, increasing annual fuel consumption and raising the HERS Index.

(HERS) Home Energy Rater Certification Practice Test

(HERS) Home Energy Rater Certification Practice Test

HERS Energy Modeling Software 3