HERS Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield HERS facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which standard of practice is MOST important for ensuring quality in HERS Index Scoring? → Following evidence-based protocols while adapting to specific circumstances
2. In which climate condition is an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) generally preferred over a Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV)? → Hot-humid climates (IECC zones 1-3) where moisture control is critical
3. Which of the following is an example of radiant heat transfer? → Sunlight warming a room through a window
4. In Energy Modeling Software, what is the FIRST step a HERS professional should take when encountering a new case or situation? → Conduct a comprehensive assessment and gather all relevant information
5. Why is it important to conduct combustion safety testing? → To verify safe venting of combustion gases
6. A supply-only ventilation system in a hot-humid climate can create which building science concern? → Pressurization that drives warm humid air into wall cavities, risking moisture damage
7. Per ASHRAE 62.2, kitchen exhaust fans with airflow ratings at or below 400 CFM must have a maximum sound rating of: → 3 sones
8. Which ASHRAE standard governs minimum mechanical ventilation requirements for residential buildings rated under the HERS program? → ASHRAE 62.2
9. Per ASHRAE 62.2, the measured airflow of a mechanical ventilation system must be within what tolerance of the design rate to be considered compliant? → ±10%
10. Which indoor air quality pollutant is of primary concern in homes with attached garages or gas-fired combustion appliances? → Carbon monoxide (CO)
11. What is the typical sensible heat recovery efficiency range for a quality residential HRV unit under rated conditions? → 70–85%
12. Which of the following would be considered an ethical violation by a HERS rater? → Providing inaccurate data to improve a score
13. Why is air sealing important in home energy efficiency? → It reduces energy loss by stopping air leaks.
14. In HERS Index Scoring, what is the FIRST step a HERS professional should take when encountering a new case or situation? → Conduct a comprehensive assessment and gather all relevant information
15. Which standard of practice is MOST important for ensuring quality in Renewable Energy Systems? → Following evidence-based protocols while adapting to specific circumstances
16. When a conflict arises between standard procedures and a unique situation in Energy Modeling Software, what should a HERS professional prioritize? → Safety and ethical obligations while seeking expert consultation
17. Why is consistent data entry important in energy rating software? → It ensures accurate and repeatable results.
18. When a conflict arises between standard procedures and a unique situation in HVAC System Evaluation, what should a HERS professional prioritize? → Safety and ethical obligations while seeking expert consultation
19. What is the benchmark HERS Index Score for a standard new home? → 100
20. In HVAC System Evaluation, what is the FIRST step a HERS professional should take when encountering a new case or situation? → Conduct a comprehensive assessment and gather all relevant information
21. Which organization is responsible for setting national standards for HERS raters? → RESNET
22. When a conflict arises between standard procedures and a unique situation in Renewable Energy Systems, what should a HERS professional prioritize? → Safety and ethical obligations while seeking expert consultation
23. In Water Heating Efficiency, what is the FIRST step a HERS professional should take when encountering a new case or situation? → Conduct a comprehensive assessment and gather all relevant information
24. When a conflict arises between standard procedures and a unique situation in Building Envelope & Insulation, what should a HERS professional prioritize? → Safety and ethical obligations while seeking expert consultation
25. What is the role of building codes in home energy ratings? → They establish baseline energy efficiency requirements.
26. What is the PRIMARY purpose of continuing education requirements in Duct Leakage Testing for HERS professionals? → Maintaining current knowledge and competency as the field evolves
27. In Building Envelope & Insulation, what is the FIRST step a HERS professional should take when encountering a new case or situation? → Conduct a comprehensive assessment and gather all relevant information
28. What is the purpose of pressure diagnostics in home performance testing? → To locate air leakage paths and pressure imbalances
29. Which standard of practice is MOST important for ensuring quality in Building Envelope & Insulation? → Following evidence-based protocols while adapting to specific circumstances
30. A HERS rater measures a home's exhaust-only ventilation fan at 35 CFM, but the ASHRAE 62.2 design requirement is 45 CFM. This system is: → Non-compliant, since measured flow is more than 10% below the design rate