Energy Efficiency and Weatherization Standards Flashcards

What energy modeling software is most commonly referenced for demonstrating compliance with the IECC performance path in HUD-assisted projects?

Answer: REScheck or COMcheck

REScheck (for residential) and COMcheck (for commercial) are DOE-developed tools widely used to demonstrate IECC compliance, and are accepted by HUD.

According to HUD standards, what is the recommended maximum air leakage rate for new construction, expressed in ACH50 (air changes per hour at 50 pascals)?

Answer: 3 ACH50

HUD and IECC 2021 target a maximum of 3 ACH50 for new residential construction, and high-performance programs like Energy Star require even lower rates.

Which HUD program specifically provides funding for energy and water efficiency improvements to existing HUD-assisted multifamily housing portfolios?

Answer: Green and Resilient Retrofit Program (GRRP)

The Green and Resilient Retrofit Program (GRRP) was established under the Inflation Reduction Act to fund energy, water, and climate resilience improvements in HUD-assisted multifamily properties.

When a HUD inspector evaluates a building's vapor retarder installation, what is the primary function of a vapor retarder in a wall assembly?

Answer: To slow the diffusion of water vapor through the wall assembly

A vapor retarder slows the diffusion of water vapor through the building assembly, helping to prevent condensation within the wall that could lead to mold and structural damage.

Under HUD's energy standards, what efficiency rating must a new gas furnace meet to be installed in HUD-assisted housing?

Answer: 80% AFUE minimum

The federal minimum AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) for new non-weatherized gas furnaces is 80%, which applies to HUD-assisted housing installations.

A HUD inspector observes that the crawlspace of a property has an exposed earth floor with no vapor barrier. What is the primary concern with this condition?

Answer: Excessive ground moisture evaporation causing humidity, mold, and structural wood decay

An unprotected earth floor in a crawlspace allows significant moisture evaporation that elevates humidity levels, promoting mold growth and wood decay in floor framing.

What is the primary purpose of an 'energy audit' conducted as part of a HUD weatherization assessment?

Answer: To identify cost-effective energy efficiency measures prioritized by savings-to-investment ratio

A weatherization energy audit systematically identifies and ranks energy efficiency improvements by their savings-to-investment ratio to ensure limited funds achieve the greatest energy reduction.