A Home Energy Rating (HERS) can be performed on both newly constructed and existing homes. For the HERS rating we will analyze the building specifications and mechanical equipment (HVAC, Water Heater, Lighting, Dishwasher, etc.) being used in the home. EAM will then use energy efficiency software to perform an analysis of the home’s design and energy performance. This analysis yields a projected HERS (Home Energy Rating System) Index, or in the case of an existing home it will give its current HERS Index. The HERS index is based on a scale, 0 is the most efficient home (net-zero energy home), while a 100 is equivalent to a home built strictly to code.
EAM ensures that this process is done as easily and accurately as possible.
Here is an overview of the process (existing homes process may vary, call for more information):
Project Information: After contacting EAM, we will ask for some information about your new/existing home. We will require building plans, specifications, and location of the home. If it is an existing home we will then most likely have to perform a full field takeoff. With this information we will be able to determine our pricing, and whether the home is eligible for a state energy office or utility program rebate (See rebate section of this page for more information).
Plan Analysis: With either the plans in hand or the field takeoff information, we will then create computer model of the home in our energy efficient software. We will then input the projected mechanical information (HVAC, Water Heater, Lighting, Dishwasher, etc.). This will give us a projected HERS index. From here we will be able to work with you to identify the energy efficiency improvements needed to reduce the HERS index to your target range.
Inspections: After the decision about which upgrades to perform has been made (if any), we will then perform two on-site inspections. The first inspection will be right after the insulation has been installed, and before dry-walling. During this inspection we will check the home for proper insulation installation, framing techniques, air sealing, and draft blocking using the Thermal Bypass Checklist. The final inspection will occur when the home is almost ready for occupancy. During this inspection we will perform a duct blaster and blower door test to ensure the HVAC systems and the building shell leakage numbers are acceptable according to your specific targets. We will also be verifying the installation of all items that may affect the HERS Index (HVAC equipment, Mechanical Ventilation, Appliances, Domestic Hot Water, Lighting, etc.)
Final Verification: After each of the two inspections have been completed, we will email the reports to all parties involved (i.e. the Site Superintendent), and whoever else on the construction team requires the information. All of the data collected from the two inspections will be put into the original plan analysis in the energy efficient software. This will then give us a final HERS index. At this time the home will also be submitted for any rebates to which the builder or homeowner might be entitled.
Rebates:
New Jersey: Under the New Jersey Energy Star Program, Tier 1 NJ Energy Efficient Homes rebates are available for newly built homes and full gut rehab homes built to pass the necessary requirements set by the program including the completion of the HVAC Contractor Checklist. The rebates are given based on a tiered system dependent on the homes verified HERS score. Once the final paperwork is sent to the market manager it typically takes around 12 weeks to receive the rebate check.
| HERS Score | Single Family | Multi-single Units | Multi-family Low Rise Units |
| 75-71: | $1,250 | $937.50 | $625 |
| 70-66: | $1,500 | $1,125 | $750 |
| 65-61: | $1,750 | $1,312.50 | $875 |
| 60-56: | $2,000 | $1,500 | $1,000 |
| 55-51: | $2,250 | $1,687.50 | $1,125 |
| 50-0: | $2,500 | $1,875 | $1,250 |
In the two years the Tier 1 program has existed EAM has helped builders and home owners receive rebates on over 2,000 homes.
Delaware: The Delaware Green for Green program does not allow for rebates solely on a HERS score. The HERS score is used in conjunction with Energy Star, LEED and HGBS (Formerly NAHB Green) to receive a rebate ranging from $1,000 to $4,500.