Energy Modeling Software Flashcards

In REM/Rate, what does the 'as-built' model represent?

Answer: The home as actually constructed and verified by the rater

The as-built model in REM/Rate captures the home's actual construction details verified through on-site inspection and testing.

Which blower door test result is the primary input for air infiltration in most HERS energy modeling software?

Answer: ACH50 converted to ACHnatural via the N-factor method

Most HERS software converts the ACH50 blower door result to ACHnatural using the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory N-factor method.

What is the purpose of the 'reference home' in HERS Index software calculations?

Answer: To establish a baseline HERS 100 score against which the rated home is compared

The RESNET-defined reference home establishes HERS Index 100 and is automatically generated by software based on the rated home's geometry.

When entering duct system data in REM/Rate, which parameter most directly affects duct leakage modeling?

Answer: Duct leakage to outside (CFM25out)

Duct leakage to outside (CFM25out) directly impacts the energy penalty assigned to the duct system in the energy model.

In EnergyGauge USA, what does the 'Loads' output report primarily show?

Answer: Peak heating and cooling loads for equipment sizing

The Loads report in EnergyGauge USA displays peak design heating and cooling loads, useful for HVAC equipment sizing verification.

Which software setting must be configured correctly to distinguish between a conditioned basement and an unconditioned crawl space?

Answer: Foundation type and conditioning status

Foundation type and its conditioning status determine how the software calculates heat loss/gain through below-grade assemblies.

What happens to the HERS Index when a rater enters a higher window U-factor in the energy model?

Answer: The HERS Index increases because heat loss through windows rises

A higher U-factor means more heat transfer, increasing the home's energy use and raising the HERS Index.