1. How to get a better HERS rating
Really it is about how to build a
better house
Chet Pasho
November 3, 2010
www.preferredbuildings.com

2. Major components of a HERS rating
• Air sealing
• Insulation levels
• Thermal bridging
• Ventilation
• Equipment choices – heating, cooling,
• Lighting
• Appliances

3. Before you start digging
Enroll your new home in the ENERGY STAR
program .
Get a plan review.
Develop strategies to improve the performance
of your new home.

4. Start at the foundation
• Proper drainage and backfill
• Radon collection
• Insulate the foundation walls
• Insulate the slab
• Air seal the foundation
• Air seal the sill

5. Air sealing – how important is it really?
• Heat loss
• Moisture transfer

6. Floor to wall connections

7. Air sealing walls
• Air tight drywall

8. Attic air sealing..
• Access panels
• Pipes
• Wires
• Partitions
• Chimneys
• ducts

9. Attic air sealing-why is it important?

10. “Filtered air”

12. Pipes and wires

13. Insulation- what kind?
• Fiberglass
• Cellulose
• Spray foams
• Sheet foams
• Hay bales

14. Insulation – how much?

15. Windows and doors
• U values
• SHGC values
• Infiltration rates

16. Thermal bridging???

17. OVE framing

18. Insulated sheathings

19. Why ventilate?
• Moisture control
• Odors
• VOC’s
• Radon

20. How much to ventilate?

21. What equipment to use?
• Exhaust only
• Balanced ventilation
• HRV/ERV

22. No silver bullet
• Attention to small details
• Educate your customers
• Educate subs
• Educate your crew
• Create ownership and enthusiasm
• Throw a party
• Market the energy efficiency of your homes