On real estate

If you pull a building permit to change out your HVAC system, you may be required to conduct a HERS test on the new system to make sure it meets California energy saving requirements.

Homebuyers can request a HERS test during escrow to determine the energy efficiency of a prospective purchase.

What is a HERS test?

The California Home Energy Rating System (HERS) was created by the California Energy Commission to estimate and compare the energy efficiency of California homes, and identify costeffective home energy efficiency measures.

It is intended to provide California homeowners and prospective home buyers with information about the energy efficiency of the homes they live in or are considering for purchase.

The HERS Rater, a person trained and certified by a state approved organization through the California Department of Energy, will inspect and assess all of the major energy efficient features and systems of a home.

Alarge part of the assessment includes testing of the heating and cooling ducts. The Energy Department found that typical California homes leak 22 percent and made duct leakage testing mandatory back in October 2005.

The HERS Rater seals off the duct system to pressurize it and uses special equipment to measure the loss of air in the system. Leaks occur at junctions, connections, and seams in the ductwork, and undermine the performance of your heating and cooling equipment, increasing utility costs.

Title 24 of California’s Building Energy Efficiency Standards requires that duct sealing be carried out where only 6 percent of the fan flow is permitted. HERS Raters can also assess attic, wall and floor insulation, windows, water heating systems, and test for Energy Star programs and credits.

Sealing and insulating ducts can help with common comfort problems, such as rooms that are too hot in the summer or too cold in the winter.Aduct system that is welldesigned and properly sealed can make your home more comfortable, energy efficient, and safer.

Fumes from household and garden chemicals, insulation particles and dust can enter your duct system, aggravating asthma and allergy problems. Sealing ducts can help improve indoor air quality by reducing the risk of pollutants circulating through your home.

Sealing and insulating ducts increases energy efficiency, lowers your energy bills, and can often pay for itself in energy savings. As homebuyers become more aware of the benefits of an energy-efficient home, having a favorable HERS rating could also increase property value.

Adriana Donofrio Podley Properties Glendora 626 926-9700 • adrianad@podley.com