The Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index is a measurement of residential energy efficiency. Useful for both new and existing homes, a HERS score provides practical information for estimating future energy bills, thus differentiating more efficient homes on the real estate market. At The Fifth Fuel, we provide HERS testing for homes throughout Alexandria, McLean, Arlington, DC and beyond.
The Benefits of a HERS Rating
- Can increase the value of energy efficient homes by quantifying their efficiency
- Highlights opportunities for increasing home energy conservation and comfort
- Provides valuable information to homebuyers regarding the energy performance of given home and its associated energy costs
- Is required for obtaining building permits in some areas
How HERS Ratings Work
The HERS Index Score is a highly regarded way to measure home energy efficiency. In fact, many government agencies, including the Department of Energy, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Department of Housing and Urban Development use the HERS rating system as an official verification of home energy efficiency.
More efficient homes have lower HERS Index Scores. The average new home in the US has a HERS Index Score of 100 and a typical resale home scores 130, according to the Department of Energy. A house with a HERS score of 70 is 30% more efficient than the average new home, while a home with a score of 130 is 30% less efficient.
Calculating a HERS Index Score for Your Virginia Home
The Fifth Fuel provides a certified HERS rating service. This involves having one of The Fifth Fuel’s Residential Energy Service Network (RESNET)-certified HERS raters inspect a home. The HERS Index Score is calculated using a reference house, with the same size, type, and shape for accurate data comparison.
The Fifth Fuel energy efficiency experts create an energy model of a home, either from a preliminary model or by taking actual measurements. A blower door test is used to determine the airtightness of a home and we inspect home insulation to ensure that it was properly installed and that there are sufficient quantities for optimum home efficiency, comfort, and cost savings.
Expert Energy Efficiency Services
The Fifth Fuel energy efficiency experts have extensive experience in calculating accurate HERS Index Scores, taking a scientific approach. We provides a variety of energy efficiency services for both new and existing homes. The Fifth Fuel is a locally owned and operated company with thirty years of home performance experience throughout Northern Virginia and Metro Maryland.
