HOME PERFORMANCE WITH ENERGY STAR® PARTICIPATION GUIDEBOOK SEPTEMBER 2013
ConsumersEnergy.com/myhome
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INTRODUCTION ...... 1
SUMMARY OF PROGRAM PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS FOR CONTRACTORS...... 3
COMPREHENSIVE HOME ASSESSMENT...... 8
POST-INSTALLATION TEST OR “TEST-OUT” PROTOCOLS...... 19
WORKER HEALTH AND SAFETY...... 21
HOME PERFORMANCE ELIGIBLE MEASURES AND INCENTIVES ...... 23
TERMINOLOGY AND DEFINITIONS ...... 25
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INTRODUCTION 1 .1 Program Sponsor
Consumers Energy is one of the nation’s largest combination utilities, providing electric and natural gas service to more than 6 .5 million of Michigan’s 10 million residents, in all 68 counties of Michigan’s lower peninsula .
As part of its Energy Optimization program filing, Consumers Energy has developed a strong portfolio of energy management programs for the residential, commercial and industrial sectors . These programs align with the goals of the 2008 Clean, Renewable and Efficient Energy Act to help Michigan residents and businesses save energy and money .
1 .2 Home Performance with ENERGY STAR
The primary objective of the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR (HPwES) program is to motivate residential energy customers to use a comprehensive, whole-house approach to reducing energy consumption when considering home improvements . Consumers Energy’s overall initial strategy for HPwES is to target customers with high energy use, as well as those with homes built before 1990 .
The HPwES program promotes a broad array of measures, such as installing new heating and air conditioning (A/C) equipment, air sealing and adding insulation . Participating contractors are encouraged to promote ENERGY STAR appliances and lighting .
Rather than focusing on a single component or measure, the homeowner will be provided with an assessment at an average cost of $400, or market price set by contractor . The assessment will recommend a comprehensive set of improvements that will result in a more comfortable home with lower energy consumption . The diagnostic-focused assessment includes a blower door test, duct leakage analysis, combustion safety testing and analysis (gas, oil, furnace, oven) and gas leak detection . The assessment also can include an infrared camera scan to identify thermal envelope deficiencies .
The secondary objective is to begin a permanent market transformation of Consumers Energy’s territory by developing a trained and certified group of home performance contractors capable of providing whole-house energy services .
Qualified heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC); insulation; and home improvement contractors will be offered training opportunities and will be encouraged to have their employees certified by organizations such as the Building Performance Institute (BPI) . Ongoing mentoring, roundtable meetings and other professional development opportunities will be made available as long as contractors participate in the program . Contractors will also be encouraged to commit to quality and whole-house improvements by earning BPI Accredited Company certification .
Consumers Energy’s HPwES program offers incentives for energy efficiency improvements that save electricity, natural gas or both . The program provides incentives for replacing air conditioners and natural gas furnaces . Incentives are also available for improvements such as increased insulation and air sealing that will save electricity (i .e ., reduce cooling loads) are also available and natural gas (i .e ., reduce heating loads) . Participants must be Consumers Energy residential customers who have either electric heat or central air conditioning for electric customers, or central gas furnaces or gas boilers for natural gas customers .
Consumers Energy’s HPwES program is designed to help owners of single-family attached and detached homes address barriers to upgrading their homes with whole-house improvements .
Most of the energy savings from the HPwES program are expected to come from the following improvements: • Air sealing • Insulation • Air conditioner replacements (15 Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio [SEER] minimum) • Natural gas heating system tune-ups and replacements
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• Duct sealing • Duct insulation (in unconditioned spaces) • High-efficiency natural gas water heaters • Window and patio door replacements
Key elements of the program implementation strategy include: • Beacon Home Energy Advisor (HEA) software • Contractor recruitment and training • Customer recruitment and feedback • Comprehensive Home Assessment (CHA)
1 .3 Program Implementer
ICF International works on behalf of Consumers Energy to implement the HPwES program . ICF provides: • Program design • Contractor participation recruiting, training and account management • Evaluation of project paperwork and periodic onsite verification of improvements • Marketing outreach and review of marketing materials developed by participating contractors • Point of contact for all program activities
ICF Program Contact
Acct Manager/ Territory Address Direct Mobile Fax Email Address 100 E Michigan Ave Robe Busby (517) 768-6321 (517) 499-0788 (517) 768-6320 Rob .Busby@icfi com. One Jackson Square Suite 815 Jackson, MI 49201 600 Renaissance Center Dianna Cacko (313) 568-5257 (734) 604-2772 (517) 768-6320 Dianna Cacko@icfi. com. Suite 1250 Southeast (South) Detroit, MI 48243 100 E Michigan Ave Jamie Langan NA (517) 499-8293 (517) 768-6320 Jamie .Langan@icfi com. One Jackson Square Southeast (North) Suite 815 Jackson, MI 49201 100 E Michigan Ave Monte Stanloski NA (517) 499-9643 (517) 768-6320 Monte Stanloski@icfi. . One Jackson Square com West Suite 815 Jackson, MI 49201 100 E Michigan Ave Virginia Ludy (517) 768-6312 (989) 971-4002 (517) 768-6320 Virginia .Ludy@icfi com. One Jackson Square Northeast Suite 815 Jackson, MI 49201 100 E Michigan Ave Greg Mott (517) 768-6319 (269) 967-1358 (517) 768-6320 Gregory .Mott@icfi com. One Jackson Square West Suite 815 Jackson, MI 49201 100 E Michigan Ave Robert Riley (517) 768-6326 (517) 883-1210 (517) 768-6320 Robert .Riley@icfi com. One Jackson Square Central Suite 815 Jackson, MI 49201
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SUMMARY OF PROGRAM PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS FOR CONTRACTORS These requirements represent minimum standards for participation in the Consumers Energy HPwES program .
2 .1 Customer Participation Requirements
For the purposes of this program, a “customer” is defined as the person with financial responsibility for paying the gas or electric bill for the meter at the home where the home performance improvements are to be installed . Any customer served by Consumers Energy in a single-family attached or detached home is eligible to participate in the program . Renters must certify that they have homeowner consent . Customers may receive incentives for multiple homes (i e. ., locations with unique Consumers Energy account numbers); however, each home is eligible to participate in the program only once . Consumers Energy customers will be identified by the account number printed on their gas or electric bills .
2 .2 Contractor Participation Requirements
1 . Sign contractor participation agreement .
2 . Provide BPI certification number or RESNET HERS Rater certification number with proof of combustion safety training .
3 . Submit required documentation per participation agreement (e .g ., insurance, copies of appropriate licensing)
4 . Warrant all work performed (i .e ., all materials, equipment, parts, and workmanship) under HPwES for one year . Provide customers with a written notice of warranty .
5 . Receive program administrative training .
6 . Begin offering HPwES program .
7 . Meet requirements of HPwES . • Follow Consumers Energy HPwES guidelines, policies and technical standards; Michigan state laws and licensing requirements; and local building codes, and permit and inspection requirements . Failure to comply may result in probation, suspension or expulsion from the program . • Use Beacon HEA to estimate savings from improvements . Alternate energy modeling software is allowable, provided that it satisfies all program requirements . • Submit contracts with scope of work and post-installation test-out and reporting 8 . Submit a minimum of five HPwES Rebate Applications per contractor within a 12-month period to maintain enrollment in the program . Contractors who submit fewer than five HPwES Rebate Applications in a 12-month period may be subject to removal from the program .
9 . Ensure that newly enrolled contractors notify their assigned ICF account manager in advance with scheduled dates/times for the first five CHA test-ins and test-outs performed . These five CHA test-ins and test-outs are subject to field inspection . This requirement is established to allow for account manager/contractor mentoring and to ensure that the newly enrolled contractor is correctly following the program guidelines and administrative policies .
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2 .3 Marketing Policies and Procedures
1 . Participating contractors may promote the program by distributing pre-approved program materials provided by Consumers Energy .
2 . Contractors may put a link on their company websites to the Consumers Energy website: ConsumersEnergy .com . The use of the Consumers Energy logo must be approved .
3 . Contractors may NOT co-brand their company promotional materials or efforts with Consumers Energy without the consent of Consumers Energy . This includes co-branding on: • Brochures • Print ads • Radio/television ads • Website/online ads
4 . Contractors may co-brand their company with HPwES, but materials must be reviewed and approved before use is allowed . Provide materials to your account manager before printing/producing or purchasing advertising . This includes co-branding on: • Brochures • Print ads • Radio/television ads • Website/online ads
5 . Participating contractors may not present themselves as Consumers Energy employees, nor communicate in any way that they work on behalf of Consumers Energy . The following is sample approved language to present your association with Consumers Energy to customers: [Company Name] is participating in Consumers Energy’s Home Performance with ENERGY STAR program. Through this program, we are able to install energy efficiency improvements at reduced cost to Consumers Energy customers.
6 . Media Relations: • Consumers Energy is responsible for media relations . • The definition of “media relations” is: Any earned media gained through relationships, news releases or by speaking with a reporter, whether for broadcast, print or online media . • Consumers Energy prohibits any co-branding with participating contractors . This includes promoting your participation in Consumers Energy programs in a news release . • Consumers Energy handles all media interviews about its programs . Participating contractors may assist with interviews in cooperation with Consumers Energy . No one is to speak to media on Consumers Energy’s behalf without its knowledge . 7 . Company Marketing: • Promoting your company and services to the public and media is appropriate . • Co-branding with Consumers Energy is not appropriate without Consumers Energy’s consent . Do not promote any participation with Consumers Energy programs in any type of advertising or news release without prior consent by Consumers Energy .
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8 . Media Relations and the Program: • Consumers Energy is interested in promoting projects on behalf of HPwES . Participating contractors are in a unique position to identify media-worthy projects and work with Consumers Energy to promote them to the media . • Together, Consumers Energy and HPwES contractors can achieve a high level of visibility for the program, Consumers Energy and contractors . 9 . Online: • Contractors may link to Consumers Energy’s website and indicate that they are participating in Consumers Energy’s HPwES Program . • Please use the language provided in Marketing Policies and Procedures, number 5 on the previous page, to explain how you are affiliated with Consumers Energy’s program . 10 . Mass Mailings: • It is not acceptable to send out mass mailings that have your company’s logo and Consumers Energy’s logo . • You may use the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR logo in your mass mailings, but mailings must be pre-approved . 11 . Print, Radio, Television, and Internet Ads: Contractors may not mention Consumers Energy programs and Consumers Energy’s name specifically in print, radio, television or Internet ads . Contractors are permitted to talk about “locally available incentives” or “incentives available from your gas or electric utility ”. Contractors may also state that they are a participating contractor in HPwES . Ads must be pre-approved .
12 . Project Economics Under Consumers Energy’s Program: • Participating contractors may market the economics of the program, but they cannot do so in a co-branded marketing piece (e .g ., brochure, print ad, online) . • Contractors may market in conjunction with use of the HPwES brand . 13 . Recommendation: Bring your account manager exactly what you want to mail, email, print, broadcast or distribute for review .
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2 .4 Equipment Requirements
The HPwES program sponsored by Consumers Energy is designed to transform the way energy efficiency services are delivered to existing one- to four-family households . Participating contractors must meet all eligibility requirements stated in the Contractor Participation Agreement . Contractors must also conduct CHAs and test the equipment below upon each job’s completion .
2 .4 .1 Required Equipment
Required Typical Equipment Description (*) Cost Energy modeling tool to analyze building energy * Beacon Software Free performance Calibrated Blower Door and * Tests for air infiltration $2,000–$2,750 Manometer Calibrated Duct Blaster and Tests for air leakage in forced air distribution * $1,170–$2,200 Manometer systems
* Combustible Gas Detector Detects leaks in natural gas and propane lines $250–$500
* Temperature Humidity Meter Fluke 971 or equivalent $180
** Exhaust Fan Flow Meter Measures airflow of exhaust fans $130
Used with blower door and digital manometer to ** Pressure Pan $90 measure leakiness of ducts Measures CO in ambient air and combustion *** Carbon Monoxide (CO) Analyzer $450 appliances Measures airflow from supply/return grilles, * Calibrated Flow Hood $1,750 exhaust fans, etc . Measures oxygen, air temperature, stack ** Combustion and CO Analyzer $500–$900 temperature, CO and AFUE combustion efficiency
*** Flow Plate Measures airflow through residential air handlers $995
Produces thermal images for diagnosis of air Infrared Camera/Scanner $3,500–$8,000 leakage and thermal boundary issues
Watt-Hour Meter Measures appliance and plug load energy $150
Manual-J Software Sizes residential HVAC systems $500
Digital Infrared Thermometer Measures surface temperature from a distance $30–$125
Digital Thermometer Measures temperature $100
Uses chemical smoke to identify locations of air Diagnostic Smoke $25–$45 leakage Measures wet and dry bulb temperatures necessary Sling/Digital Psychrometer $40–$99 to calculate relative humidity
* An exhaust fan flow meter and a pressure pan are two pieces of required equipment . A digital manometer is required to calculate readings from a pressure pan . A participating contractor may purchase a flow hood in place of an exhaust fan flow meter and pressure pan . ** A CO or combustion analyzer is a piece of required equipment . *** Participating contractors must be able to test duct leakage and total duct airflow when performing duct sealing, A/C or HVAC system replacement, or duct replacement . There is some flexibility in which equipment can be used for these purposes . In particular, contractors who do not have HVAC contracting licenses in Michigan should procure duct airflow testing devices that do not require disassembly or modification of HVAC equipment .
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2 .4 .2 Equipment Maintenance Requirements
1 . All test equipment used for diagnostics, evaluation and installation of improvements should be maintained according to manufacturer recommendations . This includes calibration of electronic and mechanical equipment, such as: • Instruments for measuring carbon monoxide • Instruments for measuring combustion efficiency • Digital manometers • Blower door and duct blaster fans • Insulation-blowing machines, including their motors, hoses, seals and filters 2 . Participating contractors should develop maintenance schedules for their equipment and maintain records of that maintenance .
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COMPREHENSIVE HOME ASSESSMENT 3 .1 Steps in the Home Assessment
1 . Contractor schedules and performs the home assessment .
2 . Contractor must obtain the customer’s Consumers Energy account number and enter the information into the Beacon HEA Record .
3 . Contractor will be provided with 12 months of electric and/or heating fuel cost records, if available by the customer, so that the home is accurately modeled in Beacon HEA .
4 . Contractor enters assessment data into Beacon records . Contractor will save the job record file for each proposed job . Contractor will retain a hard-copy file of the field data collection form for each job .
5 . Contractor flags package status as “Proposed” in Beacon . The scenario ID label should be: customer’s address_Test In (e g. ., 123 Main _Test In) .
6 . Contractor generates a home performance summary report for the customer out of the Beacon software . The Beacon HEA Summary Report is not required by the program but the contractor must provide the customer a copy of the assessment report if an alternate energy modeling software is used .
3 .1 .1 Reporting Contracted Projects
1 . The contractor and customer agree on a work scope .
2 . Contractor has the customer sign the Homeowner Agreement Form .
3 . Contractor submits the signed Homeowner Agreement Form, faxing or scanning and emailing them to ICF . This paperwork must be provided with every job . Failure to submit the completed documentation may result in a flawed or rejected application .
Note: The customer is required to use a participating contractor enrolled in the Consumers Energy HPwES program to perform the CHA test-in and test-out . The customer is not required to hire a participating contractor, to perform improvements . If the customer chooses a different contractor than the one who performed the initial CHA, the customer will be responsible for hiring the same, or any participating contractor, to perform the test-out and submit the rebate application at an additional cost . The contractor must inform the customer of this requirement during the initial CHA, and it is recommended that separate pricing be provided to the customer for test-out fees upfront, should the customer choose to select an alternate contractor to perform energy efficiency improvements .
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3 .1 .2 Work Is Completed
1 . Contractor performs all contracted work .
2 . Contractor conducts post-installation tests, completes the Rebate Application, signs it and has the customer sign it .
3 . Contractor scans and uploads the signed Rebate Application and any necessary backup documentation, and submits it to ICF via fax at (855) 254-5880 or email at CEHPTradeAlly@icfi com,. or uploads it to ConsumersEnergyTradeAlly .com .
4 . Contractor edits the Air Sealing and Duct Sealing Improvement files in the current Beacon project with the final blower door and duct blaster readings from the test-out and re-enters the health and safety information in Measurements and Visual Inspections, then re-calculates the package (If Beacon HEA is not used, the same test-out edits must be performed in the alternate energy modeling software) .
5 . Contractor saves the edited project and flags the package status as “Completed” in Beacon . The scenario ID label should be: Customer’s address_Test Out (i .e ,. 123 Main_Test Out) .
6 . ICF reviews the Beacon record and the Post-Installation Tests and Inspections Form for completeness, accuracy and compliance with program standards . ICF notifies contractor whether the job is accepted as complete . A minimum of 5 percent of all completed jobs will be subject to a quality assurance/quality control field inspection . Final rebate payment will not be released to the customer until field inspection has passed .
7 . For accepted completions, ICF processes customer and/or contractor incentives for payment .
8 . Consumers Energy sends completion acceptance confirmation/certificate to the customer .
Note: If you were not the original auditing contractor, be sure to request a copy of the original Beacon HEA scenario from ICF or request a copy of the original CHA report from the customer to submit with the rebate application .
3 .2 Comprehensive Home Assessment Requirements
One of the most important and differentiating aspects of home performance contracting is the CHA . To offer the homeowner the opportunity to increase the energy performance and comfort of his/her home, all the home’s systems are holistically assessed to recommend improvements that work together .
The CHA includes the actions (e .g ., inspections, tests) that are completed to assess a home’s performance and prepare a recommended scope of work . Contractors who agree to participate in an HPwES program need to have clear direction on what services they are expected to deliver . The required elements of the CHA do not have to be completed in one home visit but must be completed prior to commencement of home improvements . For example, a duct system can be visually inspected during the initial CHA, but a test of duct leakage to the outside must be completed prior to work beginning on the duct system . The CHA guidance below is sequenced, but contractors are not required to deliver the components of the CHA in the order provided .
3 .3 Estimating Energy Savings
3 .3 .1 Software Analysis
The participating contractor will conduct an energy analysis of the home using the Beacon HEA (or approved alternate energy modeling software) for the purpose of giving homeowners estimates of savings from proposed home performance improvements .
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3 .3 .2 Billing History
The participating contractor will request energy consumption history from the customer for use in modeling the home and proposed improvements in the Beacon HEA . If energy consumption history is not available from the homeowner, the contractor will select a baseline derived from the Residential Energy Consumption Survey (RECS) data, which is available in the Beacon HEA software . RECS data may be likely to underestimate energy consumption in the home .
3 .4 . Required and Recommended Elements
3 .4 .1 Homeowner Interview
The contractor is required to conduct an in-person interview to collect information about the home and homeowner’s concerns, motivations and goals . The information gathered can vary based on variables such as climate, housing type and site layout . The objective is to begin to establish a good base of information from which to address the homeowner’s concerns . Information that can be valuable includes:
• Age of home, years that family has lived there, number of occupants . • Remodeling, additions, window replacement, bonus rooms . • Basic information about HVAC systems, type of fuel, age of systems (if known) . • Use of unvented fireplaces and space heaters . If used, educate homeowner on moisture, carbon monoxide and fire risks, and inform him/her that envelope improvement cannot be performed unless the units are removed or vented with a retrofit kit, if applicable .
• Swimming pool—dates and hours/day of pump operation, heated or not, heating sources and locations and ventilation strategy if indoors .
• Utility bills. • Comfort complaints (e .g ., cold/hot rooms, drafts, moisture, humidity) . • Ice damming, wet crawlspaces or other common climate-specific problems .
Optional Steps of the Homeowner Interview
Conduct Pre-Evaluation Telephone Interview When scheduling a CHA, some participating contractors conduct a quick telephone interview with the homeowner to collect basic information on the home and the homeowner’s concerns and motivations, to be more prepared, focused and time-efficient during the home visit . A lead screening tool is available for participating contractors to use .
Disaggregate Energy Bills and Discuss Analysis With Homeowner If energy consumption history is available, it can be extremely valuable for the participating contractor in building an understanding of the home’s energy performance and in motivating the homeowner to invest in recommended measures .
By breaking down the energy use, the contractor can more effectively identify the best energy improvement plan and educate the homeowner on the benefits of core air sealing, insulation, high-efficiency HVAC, water heating and electric base-load measures such as lighting and appliances . A utility bill disaggregation tool is available for contractors to use .
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Perform Quick Walk-Through With Homeowner Conduct a walk-through with the homeowner to ascertain additional information and give him/her an opportunity to bring up any concerns with major items in the evaluation . The contractor can take this opportunity to inspect major appliances and lighting and educate the customer on the benefits of replacing older appliances and lighting with ENERGY STAR- qualified products .
3 .4 .2 Building Envelope Inspection
The building envelope offers many opportunities for energy efficiency improvements . Therefore, participating contractors are required to conduct inspections of building envelopes . Collect the following basic information on the envelope of the home .
1 . Record house type, age and condition .
2 . Note key features of the home (porch roof, multiple roof lines, cantilevers, bay windows, dormers, knee-wall attics, attic access, crawlspaces, basements, attached garages) .
3 . Note configuration of home additions, if any .
4 . Sketch floor plan with orientation and exterior measurements; calculate floor area and volume .
Optional Steps for Basic Building Envelope Inspection
Renewable Energy Opportunities Record house orientation, observe site layout and look for opportunities for renewable energy technology (e .g ., access to sunlight on south and west sides) .
1 . Note condition of external building envelope features (e .g ., siding, trim, fascia, soffit areas): • Look for signs of moisture or ice dam damage (if applicable) on walls and soffits that might have resulted from building performance problems . • Check for roof moisture damage (e .g ., stains, soft or rotted deck or rafters, wet or moisture-damaged insulation) from roof leaks or inadequate ventilation . • Note any issues with shading or exposure to sun (linked to issues with hot/cold rooms and can help prioritize window-related measures) . • Note any grading features, downspout terminations or sprinklers that might direct water toward the foundation or affect performance of an exterior wall .
2 . Assess envelope thermal characteristics:
• Determine the thermal boundary of the home and identify thermal bypasses . • Record types, amount and condition of insulation in all components of the thermal boundary . For guidance on default and de-rated R-values, see BPI Technical Standards:* – Attic flats, slopes, knee walls, knee-wall flats, dropped soffits, etc ., as appropriate for type of home and per configuration of additions – Basement and crawlspace walls or ceilings – Rim joists – Attic staircase walls
* BPI Technical Standards are currently being modified, and this guide will be updated to reflect any revisions .
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• Inspect windows: Note condition of windows, type, age, signs of moisture damage and air infiltration around windows . Record approximate window area by orientation, framing type, number of panes and presence of storm windows . • Inspect doors: Note type and condition of all doors to exterior (including garage)—especially note whether doors are uninsulated, in poor condition or are leaky and need weather-stripping or door sweeps .
Optional Steps for Envelope Thermal Inspection
Exterior Wall Insulation Levels Optic probes are often used to determine wall insulation levels . Probes are usually inserted next to electrical outlets or behind wall hangings . This tool can also be used to inspect potential moisture problems found with an infrared camera .
1 . Assess envelope air leakage characteristics:
• Visual inspection of the attic and basement to identify paths of air leakage: – Attic: openings in wall top plates, electrical and plumbing runs, open areas around flues and chimneys, recessed light housings, area around exhaust fans, open framing cavities, and dropped soffits and ceilings – Basement: openings around electrical and plumbing runs, flue pipes and chimneys, accessible sill plate areas, basement windows, exterior doors and accessible rim/band joist areas
• Blower door test: This test is an effective way to locate air leaks and educate the customer on air leakage issues . Follow ASHRAE standard 119 RA-2004, Section 5 .1 on blower door test procedures . However, the building may be tested at a single pressure differential of 50 Pa . – With blower door depressurizing the home, identify major leakage areas in living area (e .g ., window trim, baseboards, upper trim, cabinets, dropped soffits, pocket doors, recessed lighting, duct chases/plenums, band joists, transitions between porch roof and exterior walls, fireplaces, cantilevered floors) . – Identify any significant misalignments of the pressure and thermal boundaries and ways to correct them . – Inspect walls or ceiling between an attached garage and the living space for air leakage .
Optional Steps for Inspections During Blower Door Test Blower Door Test Use of Infrared Camera Caution: Many successful home performance contractors have learned that using an infrared camera during a blower door test is an effective way to identify where Do NOT conduct this test if the insulation and air sealing are needed . This approach is also a good sales tool fireplace or wood stove has recently when the contractor has the customer involved in the evaluation . Showing been used . Do NOT conduct this the infrared images to a customer and relating them to problems that were test if there is evidence of exposed identified during the homeowner interview demonstrates expertise and builds contaminants (asbestos, lead dust, trust, leading to higher customer motivation and sales . bio-aerosols, or other dangerous materials) that might become airborne Zonal Pressure Differential Tests or otherwise be introduced into the living space by conducting the test . Using the blower door and a manometer, conduct zonal pressure differential tests, if needed, to diagnose particular problem areas within the building (e .g ., to determine how much an attic or garage is communicating with the living space compared to the outside) . This test can help focus the inspection and speed up the diagnostics tests .
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3 .4 .3 Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning and Domestic Hot Water Systems Inspection
HVAC and domestic hot water (DHW) systems can offer dramatic comfort and energy-savings opportunities . Therefore, participating contractors will perform a basic visual inspection of the HVAC and DHW systems in the home as follows:
1 . Determine number and type of thermostats: • Note number of heating and/or cooling zones . • Note whether thermostats are programmable or manual . If programmable, check status of setback periods and, if not being used, educate homeowner on the benefits of scheduled setbacks based on his/her lifestyle .
2 . Visually inspect heating system: • Verify system information: age, model, heat in/out, general condition and maintenance history . • Estimate AFUE of heating system and Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF)/SEER of heat pump/cooling system via product nameplate information, looking product up in Gas Appliance Manufacturers Association (GAMA) or Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute (ARI) directories, instrumented testing (see next section) or a combination thereof . • Check for evidence of backdraft/flame roll-out . • If boiler, verify that pressure relief valve is present and not obstructed . • If condensing unit, check the condensate line for signs of blockage or leaks . • Check exhaust vent for proper fitting and termination .
3 . Visually inspect air conditioning system: • Verify system information: age, model, capacity (sometimes available on nameplate) . • Check condensate lines for blockage or leaks . • Note any issues around compressor/fan unit in yard, such as recirculation/airflow obstruction from built features or plantings, or problems with coil blockage from leaves, twigs or other debris . • Record number of window or wall units, model and Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER), if available . • Check for insulation on refrigerant line set .
4 . Inspect distribution systems: • Inspect air filters and ask homeowner how frequently they are replaced . • Verify presence of secondary overflow pans when air handling unit is within, above or adjacent to finished living space, and verify presence of condensate drain line or float disconnect switch . • Note the presence of any ducts or air handlers in the garage . This requires a recommendation to relocate or create air-tight enclosures to isolate them from the garage and prevent transportation of carbon monoxide and other fumes from the garage to the living space . • Record insulation level of ducts in unconditioned spaces . • Check for ductwork leaks, disconnects, crimps, signs of moisture presence, return leaks near combustion equipment, damage or other atypical conditions (inspection will include inaccessible ducts to the extent possible) . • For hydronic systems, record insulation levels and note opportunity for pipe insulation, if practical, especially on long pipe runs if there are comfort issues . • For baseboard systems, check for condition and positioning of covers and for presence of dust, webs and other material on the fins . • If ducts or an air handler are located outside of home’s pressure boundary and cannot be relocated inside, conduct a test to determine duct leakage using a metered and calibrated duct pressurization device .
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5 . Visually inspect DHW system:
• Record approximate age, model, capacity and condition . • Estimate Energy Factor (EF) of water heater based on model number . • Check for evidence of backdraft/flame roll-out . • Verify that pressure relief valve is present and not obstructed . • Note temperature setting on water heater . This is a good opportunity to educate the homeowner on standby losses and scalding threats if it’s above 120° F, and reduce the setting if homeowner approves . • Check for signs of leakage from water heater tank vessel . • Conduct visual inspection of water heater and hot water pipes for efficiency improvements (presence or lack of insulation, convective loop and feasibility of retrofitting insulation on tank and/or pipes) .
6 . Inspect combustion appliance zone safety:
Make sure there are no flammable or explosive materials near any combustion source . This is a good opportunity to recommend moving the materials to a safe place .
7 . Inspect living space safety:
• Note number, location and operability of carbon monoxide detectors and smoke detectors in living space . Codes in some jurisdictions may require them . • Note presence of unvented gas fireplaces and propane or kerosene space heaters, and discuss with and educate the homeowner . Explain that envelope work cannot be performed unless the units are removed or vented with a retrofit kit .
8 . Inspect mechanical exhaust ventilation:
• Check whether mechanical exhaust venting systems in bathrooms and kitchen, if present, are designed, installed and terminated properly . • If garage is attached, note whether exhaust fan is present and operable in garage . • Note presence and operability of power attic or whole-house exhaust fans and inform homeowner of correct operation . • Educate homeowner on the benefits of a timer-operated or humidity-controlled bathroom exhaust fan . • Determine required ventilation rate per ASHRAE 62 .2-2007 or BPI Technical Standards .*
Optional Steps for HVAC System Inspection
In addition to a basic visual inspection of the HVAC system, other information might be needed to produce energy savings estimates for replacement measures . This information can include:
Thermostat Settings Ask the homeowner about average thermostat settings for both summer and winter . This information can be important for analyzing energy consumption and savings .
Heating and Cooling Systems 1 . Review maintenance records and/or ask the homeowner about frequency, type and last occurrence of maintenance . 2 . Check central air conditioning systems for proper refrigerant charge and airflow across the indoor coil to determine whether they are in balance in order to operate as efficiently as possible . EPA certification is required to handle refrigerants, and many jurisdictions require that this be completed by a licensed HVAC contractor .
* BPI Technical Standards are currently being modified, and this guide will be updated to reflect any revisions .
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Air Handlers and Ductwork 1 . Determine condition of air handler and coil and the need for cleaning . 2 . Conduct a test to determine the adequacy of airflow using one of the following methods: Duct Blaster or other plenum pressure-matching airflow test, flow plate, flow hood, static pressure test and/or temperature rise/drop tests . 3 . Inspect for condensation moisture or damage from condensation on exterior of duct liner (in hot, humid climate) or interior of A/C-only ducts (in cold climate) for ducts outside conditioned space . 4 . Check that air return grills are properly sized .
3 .4 .4 Instrumented Tests on Combustion Appliances, Combustion Appliance Zone and Living Space
1 . Isolated Zone Test
The isolated zone test/inspection is required to confirm eligibility as an isolated zone containing combustion equipment . If any of the following requirements are not met—including a combustion closet, attic, or basement that cannot be effectively sealed from the house—the zone will not be considered isolated . Combustion equipment cannot receive any combustion air from the living space in order for the zone to be considered an isolated zone . Combustion safety testing is not required for any combustion equipment installed in an isolated zone, as confirmed through the following testing methodology:
a . Preparation and Equipment
i . Set up house for a blower door test; turn all combustion appliances off or to pilot setting . ii . Digital pressure gauge capable of 0 .1 Pa and accuracy of 1 percent of display or twice the resolution, whichever is greater .
b . Test Procedure
i . Visually inspect that there are no direct openings between the isolated zone and the home’s interior . Direct openings can include door undercuts and other leaks in doors and windows; gaps or openings in finish materials; framing openings; ductwork with registers or grilles; transfer grilles; missing or damaged finish materials such as drywall, open chases and building cavities; and unconnected pipes or electrical conduits . Verify that outdoor combustion openings are sized in compliance with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 54-2006 Sections 9 .3 .3, 9 3. .3 1,. 9 .3 3. .2, Annex A, figures A .9 .3 .3 .(1) (a), (b), and (c) . Examples include a single high opening providing 1-square-inch net for each 3,000 Btu per hour of combined gas input (recommended for areas that may freeze), or low and high openings to the attic or directly to the outside providing 1-square-inch net for each 4,000 Btu per hour input in each of two vertical openings, or 1-square- inch for each 2,000 Btu per hour input in each of two horizontal openings .
ii . Isolated Zone Depressurization
a) Measure baseline pressure from closed isolated zone to the outside .
b) Operate blower door at 50 Pa and measure change in the isolated zone pressure to outside . Maximum change is 5 Pa during the blower door operation .
c) Turn off the blower door and seal the fan, turn on the air handler at the thermostat fan switch . Measure the change in the isolated zone pressure to outside with the air handler operating . Maximum change is 2 Pa during the air handler operation .
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iii . Isolated Zone Combustion Equipment Inspection and Testing
a) Visually inspect the vent system for proper size and angle from horizontal; look for blockage, restriction, leakage, corrosion or other visible conditions that could cause an unsafe condition . Visually inspect the vent and, where accessible, the connector attachments .
b) Compare venting system to NFPA 54-2006, Chapters 12 and 13; NFPA 31 for oil; and NFPA 211 for solid fuels . Record system component details that do not provide at least 90 percent of the required capacities for attached appliance inputs as listed in the vent tables, including additional requirements .
c) Conduct a spillage test under non-depressurization conditions .
If an existing combustion appliance zone was intended to be an isolated zone, but failed the above tests to verify its status, it can be treated as a combustion appliance zone attached to the living space that requires combustion safety testing, or requiring measures to establish it as an isolated zone within the proposed and contracted scope of work .
2 . Combustion Appliance and Combustion Appliance Zone Tests
Performing these tests can help identify problems that affect the health and safety of the customer . Therefore, participating contractors will perform diagnostic tests on combustion equipment, including vented heating systems, water heaters and ovens, according to the BPI Technical Standards* or an equivalent method developed by the HPwES program sponsor in line with its Partnership Agreement and approved by EPA and the U .S . Department of Energy (DOE) . These inspections are required for all combustion appliances that have not been installed in isolated zones . This inspection includes:
• Carbon monoxide measurement at each appliance • Draft measurement and spillage evaluation for atmospherically vented appliances • Worst-case negative pressure measurement for each combustion appliance zone Examples of acceptable alternative diagnostic testing standards that cover a portion, but not all, of the diagnostic testing covered by BPI include: • ASTM Standard E1998-02, Standard Guide for Assessing Depressurization-Induced Backdrafting and Spillage from Vented Combustion Appliances • Canada General Standards Board 51 .71-95, Spillage Test Method to Determine the Potential for Pressure Induced Spillage from Vented, Fuel-fired, Space Heating Appliances, Water Heaters and Fireplaces • National Fuel Gas Code (ANSI Z223 1/NFPA. 54, Annex H)
Note: Vented appliances that are going to be replaced with direct vent or power-vented equipment as part of the work scope do not have to be tested, except as an interim test if the home is air sealed as part of the work scope prior to installation of the new equipment (installing the heating equipment first would prevent the need for such a test) .
3 . Ambient Carbon Monoxide Readings
The contractor will take ambient carbon monoxide readings in combustion appliance zones and in main living spaces and continuously monitor carbon monoxide levels in the ambient air around technician during combustion tests .
* BPI Technical Standards are currently being modified, and this guide will be updated to reflect any revisions .
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4 . Gas Leak Test
Small gas leaks present a health and safety threat, waste energy and emit methane, a greenhouse gas 22 times more powerful than carbon dioxide . Using gas leak detection equipment, check for gas leaks at all accessible gas pipe connections, Ts, elbows, unions, and fittings, from the gas meter to the inlet to each combustion appliance . Any gas leak discovered with detection equipment will be verified with a commercial soap solution before repairs are made .
5 . Testing Disclosure
The home performance contractor will review and provide a disclosure form, including a disclaimer with the results of any combustion appliance testing . Both the customer and the contractor will sign the disclosure form in duplicate; both will retain copies .
a . Disclosure form will include the language: “The results of the combustion appliance test do not represent the worst-case conditions for depressurization and do not take into account the following:
• Fireplace or woodstove operation • Powered attic fans • Exhaust from negative pressure sources in neighboring dwellings • All possible configurations of HVAC fan operation and damper and door operation • Stack effect variations over time • Open windows • Wind under conditions other than the test • Any future alterations to building components that could affect air movement in the home”
In addition, testing furnaces and boilers that do not heat the potable hot water supply, or space heaters, in weather conditions during which they would not normally be operating (i .e ., warmer than 60° F) can provide positive spillage results not found when tested in their normal outdoor temperature range .
Optional Steps for Instrumented Tests
Steady-State Efficiency Test The steady-state efficiency (SSE) test can be performed relatively quickly while conducting other combustion tests on a furnace or boiler . It can provide good information for the contractor in evaluating the condition and operation of the equipment . Beacon HEA has an option for entering SSE data as an input instead of manufacturer’s product information .
3 .4 .5 Lighting and Appliances
Record approximate age, type and condition of major appliances and showerheads . If applicable, determine number, age and condition of room air conditioners . Check with the homeowner if the evaluation is performed outside the cooling season and the appliances could be in storage . • If homeowner has any older (>10 years) appliances, discuss the benefits of replacing them with ENERGY STAR- qualified appliances . • Educate the homeowner on water and energy savings from efficient-flow or low-flow showerheads and toilets .
Inspect high-use lighting areas for any obvious opportunities to upgrade to ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) or fixtures . Check with the homeowner to get an estimated daily burn time for lighting to be recommended for replacement (important for energy savings estimate calculation) .
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3 .4 .6 Moisture Inspection • Check the crawlspace for moisture deposition or damage on basement floors, walls and doors . • Determine whether there is continuous moisture barrier in the crawlspace . • Check around exterior of foundation for signs of moisture deposition from such sources as faulty gutters or water too close to the foundation . • Check attic for moisture deposition or damage on roof deck, rafters, joists and insulation (wet or moisture- compacted insulation) . • Inspect condition of windows and look for signs of condensation or other conditions that could cause damage or affect durability . • If there is evidence of high-moisture levels in the living space, check for discoloration on walls behind headboards, furniture, corners of closets on exterior walls, and other areas of stagnation and cold temperature for moisture deposition or damage and conditions that promote fungal growth .
3 .4 .7 Home Performance with ENERGY STAR Comprehensive Home Assessment Summary Report
Review the findings with the customer as the culmination of the CHA process . This is the opportunity to present the homeowner with the improvement opportunities discovered during the CHA, along with solutions for improving the performance of the customer’s home . Therefore, the participating contractor will discuss inspection findings and present a recommended scope of work to the homeowner .
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POST-INSTALLATION TEST OR “TEST-OUT” PROTOCOLS 4 .1 Introduction
One of the features that distinguishes HPwES as a value-added service for residential customers is the series of instrumented tests and inspections that the contractor performs after improvements have been made to a home . These tests support the “do-no-harm” principle that is a hallmark of home performance contracting . While there is no guarantee that any home will operate safely under all conditions, the home performance contractor is uniquely concerned about the health and safety of the occupants . In addition to addressing health and safety issues that could be directly affected by the home performance work, some of the tests provide valuable information on the effectiveness of air and duct sealing measures .
4 .2 Program Oversight of Post-Installation or “Test-Out” Requirements
When a customer has completed home performance improvements, a participating contractor will perform the post- installation tests and inspections described in this section and enter the results on a Post-Installation Tests and Inspections Form . If any of the tests or inspections show the need for corrective action, the contractor can record the action items in the document or postpone completing the rebate application form (including having the customer sign it) until those corrective actions have been made . The job will not be considered complete until ICF has received a signed rebate application form that indicates all standards have been met (i .e ., all tests and inspections have been passed successfully) and no further actions are required .
4 .3 Post-Installation Test or “Test-Out” Requirements
The required post-installation tests depend on the scope of work: 1 . Confirm measures installed with a simple checklist (Rebate Application) that the participating contractor uses to confirm that all contracted measures have been installed . The customer should also sign the test-out form, signifying his/her agreement that the job has been completed .
2 . Complete blower door test after installation of any of the following measures: • Enclosed cavity insulation representing more than 15 percent of the total building shell area • Air sealing • Sealing of ductwork outside the building envelope • Replacement of atmospherically vented combustion appliance with sealed combustion appliance (due to removal of an exhaust appliance from the home)
3 . Conduct distribution system airflow and leakage tests . If ducts are sealed or replaced as part of the job scope, the HPwES program mandates that duct airflow and leakage tests be conducted .
Airflow Test: The test is conducted to ensure that airflow is adequate for the system being tested . The contractor may use a test that is recognized by the industry (e .g ., flow plate, flow hood, static pressure, temperature drop) .
Duct Leakage Test: The contractor must perform a duct blaster test for leakage to the outside . The contractor enters the results in the Duct Test Result section of the form .
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4 . Perform minimum house ventilation requirement calculation whenever changes to the building shell requiring a blower door test have occurred to ensure that the home is receiving adequate outside air per BPI Technical Standards .*
5 . Verify isolated zone status per test specifications after installation of any of the following measures: • Enclosed cavity insulation representing more than 15 percent of the total building shell area • Air sealing • Duct sealing or duct replacement • Installation of new combustion appliance • Creation of a new isolated zone or correction of an isolated zone failure on an existing combustion appliance zone intended to be isolated from the living space
6 . Complete combustion appliance tests on all combustion equipment—including vented heating systems, water heaters and ovens, in accordance with BPI Technical Standards—whenever changes to the building envelope and heating system have occurred . This inspection includes all of the following tests: • Carbon monoxide measurement at each appliance (including ovens) • Draft measurement and spillage evaluation for atmospherically vented appliances • Worst-case negative pressure measurement for each combustion appliance zone These tests do not apply for combustion appliances installed in isolated zones as verified by the isolated zone test .
7 . Inspect and test orphaned water heaters, as water heaters may not be left venting alone into a previously shared chimney without ensuring that the chimney meets appropriate NFPA requirements under the new condition, and the water heater has been tested and passed all required combustion safety tests (e .g ., spillage, draft, combustion appliance zone depressurization) .
8 . Check the lines with a combustible gas detector if any work affected gas/propane lines .
* BPI Technical Standards are currently being modified, and this guide will be updated to reflect any revisions .
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WORKER HEALTH AND SAFETY 5 .1 Technician Safety
The contractor performing the work is responsible for initiating and maintaining programs that comply with applicable Occupational Health and Safety Act regulations (29 CFR 1910 & 1926) and any other applicable federal or state laws enacted to protect worker safety .
All technicians performing diagnostic tests, inspections or installations must have access to all necessary personal safety equipment required by OSHA . Required safety equipment includes: • Fitted respirators with canister filters • Dust masks • Gloves • Protective clothing • Safety glasses • Hard hats
These tests do not apply for combustion appliances installed in isolated zones as verified by the isolated zone test .
All hand tools, power tools, ladders and diagnostic equipment must be handled and used in a safe manner and be kept in good working condition . Equipment and diagnostic tools must be maintained and calibrated according to manufacturer specifications .
A copy of the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all materials used on the job and installed in the home must be kept on each crew vehicle and made available to all workers and clients upon request .
Where the presence of asbestos, lead, mold and/or other potentially hazardous material is known or suspected, all relevant state and federal (EPA) guidelines must be followed to ensure technician and occupant safety . Blower door depressurization tests may not be performed in homes where there is a risk of asbestos becoming airborne and being drawn into the dwelling .
Respirators with filter cartridges must be worn when working in areas where exposure to airborne mold, asbestos, lead, fiberglass or formaldehyde is a risk .
Carbon monoxide levels in the ambient air around the technician must be monitored throughout all combustion safety tests . Diagnostic evaluations and inspections must be aborted if ambient carbon monoxide concentrations greater than 35 parts per million are recorded . Carbon monoxide-producing appliances must be disabled and repaired before proceeding with additional diagnostics or inspections .
Refer to BPI standards on combustion safety for complete requirements applicable to carbon monoxide exposure limits and action levels .
5 .2 Asbestos Inspection
1 . Prior to performing work or conducting tests, the service provider must conduct an inspection for materials suspected of containing asbestos if there is the possibility that the materials might be disturbed during the weatherization testing or work . 2 . When major energy-saving measures might be sacrificed as a result of suspected asbestos-containing materials, the participating contractor or entity performing the work may have the suspected material tested for asbestos content .
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3 . All work personnel should wear high-quality respirators any time they are working with or near asbestos . 4 . Materials containing asbestos may not be cut, drilled or disturbed in any manner that may cause asbestos fibers to become airborne . 5 . Participating contractors or entities performing the work must use certified asbestos abatement contractors to remove or dispose of asbestos-containing materials .
5 .3 Dust and Lead
Contractors will adhere to the Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA) amended by Title X, EPA 40 CFR Rules, and lead-safe practices in any home constructed before 1978 where pre-existing paint finish or dust might be disturbed as part of the work . Compliance is not required if an owner has documentation from a certified inspector or risk assessor that the house is free of lead-based paint or has undergone lead abatement in conformance with regulations .
5 .4 Occupant Health and Safety
Where moisture problems exist, they must be mitigated through elimination or isolation of the source, or ventilation of the space around the source, before proceeding with other shell-related measures .
The homeowner must be notified of any health and safety hazards identified during inspections and installations in the home . These hazards include indoor air contaminant sources, moisture problems, structural problems, electrical problems, and fire protection issues . Wherever problems are identified or suspected that fall outside the technician’s area of expertise, the technician must inform the client of the problem and recommend an evaluation by a professional who specializes in the subject .
Clothes dryers, regardless of fuel type, and bathroom exhaust fans must be vented directly outside using appropriate duct materials (metal ducts are required for gas-fueled clothes dryers) before proceeding with installation of air sealing, duct sealing or enclosed cavity insulation measures . Exhaust ducts running through unconditioned space must be insulated and have a minimum quarter-inch rise for every foot of run toward wall or roof terminations .
Moisture problems can be reduced or eliminated by controlling the source of the moisture . This can involve: • Installing a ground cover on a crawlspace floor • Venting dryers to the outside of the building • Sealing the foundation • Installing exhaust fans in bathrooms or above cooking ranges • Correcting the venting of existing exhaust fans • Providing drainage away from the foundation • Repairing the roof, flashing, gutter and downspout • Educating the customer about the sources of moisture that he/she is able to control
A dwelling using any unvented combustion appliance should not be tightened or insulated . The service provider should explain the consequences of using an unvented space heater to the customer . When the customer has agreed in writing that he/she understands and will not use the unvented space heater, the HPwES work may begin .
The scope of work will specify a minimum of one carbon monoxide alarm that is labeled as compliant with UL 2034, IAS 6-96 or CSA 6 .19-01 to be installed per manufacturer recommendations in the hallways outside the bedroom area at each floor level .
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HOME PERFORMANCE ELIGIBLE MEASURES AND INCENTIVES Qualifying measures and incentive levels (Incentives capped at $5,000 for Consumers Energy natural gas and combination (gas and electric) customers, and $1,800 for Consumers Energy electric-only customers)
Consumers Energy Customer Type Multiple-Measure Bonuses Electric Gas and Gas Only Electric Only
Comprehensive Home Assessment Refund (perform three measures) $200 $200 $100
★ Silver Savings Bonus (perform four measures) $250 $250 $150
★ ★ Gold Savings Bonus (perform five measures) $300 $300 $200
★ ★ ★ Platinum Savings Bonus (perform six measures) $350 $350 $250
Whole-House Improvement Bonus (perform seven or more measures) $500 $500 $400
Minimum Efficiency for Measure
Air Sealing (20% reduction) $100 $100 $40
Air Sealing (30% reduction) $150 $150 $60
Air Sealing (50% reduction) $200 $200 $80
Duct Sealing (15% reduction) $50 $50 $15
Duct Sealing (30% reduction) $100 $100 $35 Duct Insulation (must insulate a minimum of 25 linear feet to R-6 or higher) $50 $50 $15 Roof (Attic) Insulation (R-30 or less existing condition, effective R-value $70 insulated to R-49 . Must insulate a minimum of 500 square feet) $250 $250
Above-Grade Wall Insulation (R-0 to R-13 existing condition or less, insulated and air sealed to minimum R-13 for 2 x 4 cavity walls or R-21 for $200 $200 $50 2 x 6 cavity walls . Must insulate a minimum of 500 square feet of wall area)
Basement Wall Insulation (R-0 insulated to R-5 . Must insulate a $70 minimum of 500 square feet of wall area) $100 $100
Crawlspace Insulation (R-0 to R-13 existing condition, insulated to R-19 and air sealed, R-10 with foam . Must insulate a minimum of 200 square feet $100 $100 $20 of wall area)
Floor Insulation (R-0 existing condition, insulated to R-10 . Must insulate a $100 $100 $20 minimum of 500 square feet)
Rim Joist Insulation (air seal and insulate to R-10 . Must insulate all $100 $100 $20 accessible rim joist areas)
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Consumers Energy Customer Type Minimum Efficiency for Measure Electric Gas and Gas Only Electric Only Natural Gas Furnace 94 AFUE or Higher AHRI Rated $400 $400 N/A
Operations and Maintenance Natural Gas Furnace/Boiler Tune-Up (must be performed by a participating contractor who offers the qualified $50 $50 N/A tune-up service)
ECM Motor (factory installed in new furnaces only) $100 N/A $100
Natural Gas Boiler 90% AFUE or Higher AHRI Rated (replacement only) $1,250 $1,250 N/A
Split System Central A/C 15.0 SEER or Higher AHRI Rated $300 N/A $300
Operations and Maintenance Central A/C Tune-Up (must be performed $50 N/A $50 by a participating contractor who offers the qualified tune-up service)
Air Source Heat Pump 15.0 SEER or Higher AHRI Rated (replacement of existing heat pump only—replacement of existing air conditioner does $300 N/A $300 not qualify)
Ground Source Heat Pump 17.0 EER or Higher AHRI Rated $500 N/A $500 (replacement of existing ground source heat pump only)
Tankless Water Heater .82 EF $200 $200 N/A
High-Efficiency Gas Water Heater .67 EF or greater $120 $120 N/A
$2 per square $2 per square $2 per square foot of window foot of window foot of window Window/Patio Door Replacement .30 U-factor* area area area up to $500 up to $500 up to $500
*Solid-core doors with glass lites smaller than 75 percent of total door area, glass block, and storm doors do not qualify .
The Consumers Energy Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® (“HPwES”) program will be offered for a limited time in all Consumers Energy’s territories . Incentives are subject to availability . Before investing in energy efficiency improvements, please confirm the availability of rebate funds through a local participating contractor in the Consumers Energy HPwES program or by contacting the program at (866) 234-0445 or ConsumersEnergy .com/myhome . Eligible Consumers Energy customers can reserve rebate funds after they have received a full diagnostic HPwES assessment . Customers are only eligible for the incentive associated with their service .
To qualify for rebates in this program, use of a Consumers Energy HPwES participating contractor is required to perform the comprehensive home assessment pre- and post-inspections . The participating contractor performing the post-inspection will be responsible for submitting the rebate application on behalf of the customer .
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TERMINOLOGY AND DEFINITIONS
ACCA: Air Conditioning Contractors Association .
ACH: Air changes per hour .
Air Barrier: Barrier that prevents infiltration of outdoor air into the conditioned space and exfiltration of indoor air to the outside . Also known as “pressure boundary ”. It should be continuous and aligned with the thermal boundary .
Air Sealing: Process of sealing bypasses in the pressure boundary to prevent air leakage . Air sealing reduces heat flow from air movement and prevents water vapor from entering the wall .
Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) Rating: Steady-state efficiency measurement that includes standby losses . Average efficiency over the course of the heating season .
Area: Formula for area is length (linear feet) x width (linear feet) = area (square feet) .
ARI: Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute .
Asbestos: Heat-resistant material once used in many building products . Serious health hazard as an airborne particulate .
ASHRAE: American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers .
Atmospheric Venting System: Negative vent pressure, uses standard chimney to remove combustion byproducts from the home .
Attic Bypass: Air connection between the living space and attic .
Attic Ventilation: Ventilation intended to remove heat and moisture from attic to the outside .
Backdraft: Spillage of combustion byproducts into the home (after running the appliance for one minute) instead of venting out through the chimney or flue .
Balanced Heat Recovery Ventilator: Functions as a supply and exhaust ventilation system . In winter, cold air is pulled from outside and tempered in an exchange of the warm air going out . The heat exchanger transfers heat to the cold, incoming air .
Balanced Mechanical Ventilation System: Type of mechanical ventilation with a system of inlets and outlets that prevents pressure differences while ventilating the home .
Balloon Framing: Construction method where the walls are framed before the floor is built, and the wall cavity is often open to the attic and basement .
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Band Joist: Framing ribbon between first and second floors of a structure .
Barometric Damper: Damper activated by air pressure differentials .
Base Pressure: Natural pressure difference between the zone being tested and the outside (without any exhaust appliances running and with the house in winter condition) .
Baseload: Amount of energy (electric and fuel) used to operate lighting and appliances year-round .
Blower Door: Diagnostic tool used to test for air leakage in a home .
Bottom Plate: Bottom horizontal wall component .
British Thermal Unit (Btu): Amount of energy needed to heat 1 pound of water 1 degree Fahrenheit .
• Btu Content of Common Fuels
• #2 Fuel Oil – 139,000 Btu/gal
• Electricity – 3,413 Btu/kWh
• Liquid Propane – 92,000 Btu/gal
• Natural Gas – 100,000 Btu/therm; 1,000 Btu/cu . ft .
• Wood – 15–20 million Btu/cord
Building Airflow Standard (BAS): Calculated minimum airflow required for a building and the occupants . 0 .35 ACH or 15 CFM per person, whichever is greater, converted to CFM50 . Mechanical ventilation is required if the measured CFM50 is less than 70 percent of the BAS .
Building Envelope/Building Shell: Any part of the building that creates a boundary between indoor and outdoor space .
Burner Efficiency: Measure of how efficiently combustion occurs at the burner .
Cantilever: Characteristic of some houses where a floor protrudes beyond the foundation wall, exposing part of the floor area to the outside .
Capillary Action: Moisture transfer through which water is sucked into tiny spaces in and between building materials, caused by the attraction of water molecules to each other and to other substances .
Carbon Dioxide (CO2): Combustion byproduct that is heavier than air .
Carbon Monoxide (CO): Odorless, tasteless, poisonous combustion byproduct that is lighter than air .
Cellulose: Insulation made from recycled material and treated to be flame/insect retardant .
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CFM50: Cubic feet per minute at 50 pascals pressure differential .
CFMn: Cubic feet per minute at natural pressure .
Combustion Appliance Zone (CAZ): Area of the home where combustion appliances are located .
Combustion Byproducts: Transformed energy released through the combustion process . Examples include gases, light and heat .
Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs): Redesigned lights for use in most conventional fixtures; use about two-thirds less energy compared to standard incandescent bulbs .
Condensation: Process by which moisture vapor changes to liquid form .
Conditioned Space: Areas or zones within a house that are heated or cooled for comfort .
Conduction: Transfer of heat between objects that are in contact . (Heat is transferred from molecule to molecule through solid materials .)
Consumption Analysis: Analysis of energy usage . This could be an in-depth review of month-to-month usage or a comparative analysis before and after work is completed .
Convection: Transfer of heat by circulation or movement of the heated parts of a liquid or gas .
Convective Loop: When air (or other medium) continuously circulates in an enclosed space as it is heated or cooled .
Cooling Load: Amount of energy consumed to provide seasonal cooling .
Cost Effectiveness: Indicator of how worthwhile an investment is .
Crawlspace: Space under a house often used to distribute mechanical/electrical systems . Usually unconditioned .
Cripple Stud: Stud over or under a header or sill .
Delta T (∆T): Temperature difference between two zones .
Delta P (∆P): Pressure difference between two zones .
DHW: Domestic hot water system .
Diffusion: Moisture transport mechanism; the way water vapor moves through materials such as sheetrock and plywood, going from high concentrations of moisture to low concentrations .
Distribution Efficiency:Efficiency with which heat is transported from the heating plant and delivered to the conditioned space .
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Distribution System: System through which heated/cooled air is moved throughout a house .
Draft: Movement of combustion byproducts through the flue and chimney and out of the building house .
Draft Test: Test to determine whether venting systems are effectively moving combustion gases out of the house, even under worst-case conditions .
Duct Blaster: Duct leakage testing equipment .
EPA: U .S . Environmental Protection Agency .
Exfiltration: Air leakage . Air leaving a building through the building envelope, caused by pressurization with reference to outside (replaced by an equal amount of air entering the building) .
Exhaust-Only Mechanical Ventilation System: Type of mechanical ventilation that uses a fan assembly to remove air, moisture and contaminants from a home, but relies on building leakage or planned inlet dampers to provide incoming air .
Fenestration: Envelope penetration used for access/egress or lighting . Examples include windows, doors and skylights .
Fiberglass: Common insulation material made from glass fibers .
Firestop: Material used to stop smoke, toxic fumes and fire from migrating from one floor to another .
First Law of Thermodynamics: Energy is neither created nor destroyed, but merely moves from place to place and changes form .
Flame Impingement: Flame interference or obstruction .
Floor Joist: Horizontal floor-framing member .
Forced Air Distribution System: A system that uses a blower and ductwork to distribute heated air from a source (furnace or air handler) to each room .
Formaldehyde: Harmful chemical vapor emitted by many building materials .
Friction Loss: Loss of air velocity caused by friction within a duct .
GAMA: Gas Appliance Manufacturers Association .
Gravity Distribution System: Depends primarily on convective heat transfer to move warm air through the house . Heat is distributed through the house by gravity (i .e ., hot air rises) .
Gross Area: Total area before subtracting fenestrations .
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Heat Loss: Calculated heat loss in Btu through the building shell or given component over a certain time . • Formula for Conductive Heat Loss: Q = U x A x HDD x 24 x 0 .75 • Formula for Convective Heat Loss: Q = CFMn x 1 08. x 24 x HDD x 0 .75
Heating Degree Days (HDD): Value reflecting the amount of energy needed to heat a building . Annual HDD are the total HDD in a year based on 30-year averages for specific climate regions .
Heating Load: Number of Btu per hour that must to be added to provide indoor comfort . Heating load is based on worst-case winter design temperatures determined by local weather statistics .
HRV: Heat recovery ventilator .
Hydronic Distribution System: System in which circulator pumps move hot water through the home (radiators/baseboard or hydronic heat in the floor) .
IAQ: Indoor air quality .
Induced Draft: System that uses a fan located on the furnace at the exhaust outlet to pull air through the heat exchanger . Relies on negative vent pressure to move combustion byproducts out through the flue or chimney .
Infiltration: Air leakage . The air that enters a structure through the envelope (replaced by an equal amount of air leaving the home) . Caused by depressurization with respect to outside .
Insulation: Any material that slows heat transfer .
Interacting Relationships: Changing conditions that are interrelated and affect each other .
Internal Gains: Heat gains from internal sources . An example would be cooking, which provides additional heat inside the home .
Interstitial Spaces: Building cavities (e g. ., joist area, interior spaces of walls .
Jack Stud: Stud that supports either end of a header .
Jamb: Top or side piece of a door or window frame .
Kilowatt-Hour: 1,000 watts; 1 kWh = 3,414 Btu .
Kinetic Energy: Energy in transition or motion .
King Stud: Full-length stud closest to either end of a header .
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Knee Wall: Short wall, usually about three to four feet high, in the attic of a home, anchored with plates between the attic floor joists and the roof joist . Sheathing can be attached to these walls to enclose an attic space . Commonly found in Cape-style homes .
Liquid Flow: Movement of bulk moisture from one place to another, driven by gravity or pressure differences .
Low-Flow Aerator: Water aerator that restricts flow to about 1 .5 gallons per minute .
Low-Flow Showerhead: Showerhead that limits water flow to about 1 .5 gallons per minute .
MAD AIR House: Plexiglas model used to demonstrate interacting relationships of air movement .
Makeup Air: Air brought in to replace air displaced by combustion or exhaust appliances .
Manometer: Instrument used in building diagnostics to measure airflow and air pressure .
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS): Product information, provided by the manufacturer, detailing potential health/safety hazards and required precautions for dealing with a specific material .
Mechanical Effect: Air movement in a structure resulting from mechanical systems .
Mechanical Ventilation: Intentional ventilation that allows a homeowner some control in the amount and timing of air exchange in the home .
Moisture Transport Mechanisms: Liquid flow, capillary action, diffusion, air movement .
Mold: Parasitic, microscopic fungi that make spores, which float in the air like pollen . Mold is a common trigger for allergies and is often found in damp areas such as basements and bathrooms .
Negative Pressure: When pressure is lower inside the house than outside .
Net Area: Square footage of a building component minus any fenestrations or areas of different R-value .
N-Factor: Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory N-factors correct the building airflow calculation to reflect the geographic location of the building . The N-factor is height-corrected to reflect the design of the house . (NCh is the abbreviation for the height-corrected N-factor .)
NFPA: National Fire Protection Association .
NFRC: National Fenestration Rating Council .
Orphaned Water Heater: Domestic hot water heater that uses a flue previously shared with another heating appliance .
OSHA: Occupational Safety and Health Administration .
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Pascal (Pa): Metric unit of measure equaling about one pound of pressure per square foot; 250 Pa is about one inch of water column .
Perm (permeance): Unit of measure of permeability .
Permeability: Measure or rating of a material’s ability to permit moisture to pass through .
Platform Framing: Construction method where the floor is framed and subfloored before the walls are set up . For two-story homes, another floor assembly is framed and subfloored on top of these walls . This greatly reduces air movement from basement to attic compared to balloon framing .
Polystyrene: Foam insulation type; available in sheet or spray .
Positive Pressure: When air pressure inside the house is higher than the air pressure outside .
Potential Energy: Stored energy .
Power-Vented System: Uses positive vent pressure to remove combustion byproducts to the outside . A power venter on the appliance pulls air through the heat exchanger and pushes byproducts out through the vent pipe .
Pressure Boundary: Refers to location of the barrier that separates indoor air from outdoor air . It should be continuous and aligned with the thermal boundary .
Pressure Differential Measurements: Manometer readings used in building diagnostics; show air pressure difference between two separate zones .
Principles of Air Movement: Air movement requires a passage between two zones and a difference in pressure to push air through it . Air follows the path of least resistance .
Radiation: Heat transfer from a warm object to a cold object, where the objects are not in contact with each other . Unlike convection or conduction, radiation does not require a medium to carry the heat . The objects must be “in sight” of one another .
Radon: Naturally occurring radioactive soil gas; common indoor air contaminant .
Rafter: Roof framing member .
Rate of Return: Percentage of savings from an energy investment accrued each year .
Relative Humidity: Percentage of moisture vapor in the air relative to the total amount of moisture the air could hold at a specific temperature/pressure, expressed as a percentage .
Respirator: Personal safety device designed to protect against airborne particulates .
Rim Joist: External frame for a floor platform of a house; also called box sill .
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Rock Wool: Insulation type made from glass fiber .
R-Value: Measured resistance of a material to heat transfer .
Savings to Investment Ratio (SIR): Life-cycle savings of an energy improvement divided by the initial investment . (For every dollar invested in an energy improvement, how many dollars will be saved over the life of the improvement, in today’s dollars?)
Sealed Combustion Venting System: System that uses either a concentric or two-pipe vent . (A concentric vent has a small pipe inside a larger pipe .) One pipe brings in combustion air and the other removes combustion byproducts from the home . No combustion air comes from inside the home .
Seasonal Efficiency:Total system efficiency, includes annual fuel utilization efficiency and distribution losses; average efficiency over the course of a heating season .
Second Law of Thermodynamics: Energy flows naturally from high concentrations to low concentrations .
Simple Payback: Number of years it takes for annual savings from an energy improvement to equal the initial investment .
Soffit: Underside of a roof overhang . A dropped soffit is a small, lowered ceiling often found above cabinets .
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient: Percentage of solar heat that is absorbed vs . reflected when it contacts a window .
Solar Light Transmittance: Percentage of light that is absorbed vs . reflected when it contacts a window .
SpecificHeat: Capacity of a cubic foot of material to hold heat; 0 .018 Btu for air .
Spillage: Temporary flow of combustion byproducts from the flue or chimney of a combustion appliance into the home .
Stack Effect: Occurs when a building is heated and the warm air inside is less dense than the colder air outside . The inside air rises up and out of any holes in the upper portions of the envelope and is replaced with outside air that enters through holes in the lower portions .
Steady-State Efficiency: Measurement of the combustion efficiency of a heating system when it has reached equilibrium (i .e ., system has “warmed up,” usually after about five minutes) .
Steam Distribution System: Hot steam rises under low pressure into standing radiators .
Supply Only: Type of mechanical ventilation that uses a fan assembly to bring air into the home, but relies on building leakage or planned outlet dampers to remove moisture and contaminants .
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Temperature: Measurement related to the amount of kinetic energy within a material or substance . The greater the kinetic energy, the higher the temperature .
Thermal Boundary: Insulation boundary that separates conditioned from non-conditioned spaces in a building . It should be continuous and aligned with the pressure boundary .
Thermal Bypass: Material or component piece that allows more heat transfer compared to adjoining component pieces .
Thermodynamics: Branch of physics that explains the effect of temperature and heat, and the conversion of energy from one form to another .
Thermostat: Control for maintaining heat at a prescribed temperature .
Top Plate: Horizontal framing member at the top of a wall .
Unconditioned Space: Area or zone in a building that is not intentionally conditioned .
Urea Formaldehyde: Common glue type use in wood products .
Urethane: Common foam insulation; available in sheet or spray .
U-Value: Measure of thermal transmittance (how fast heat moves through a material) .
Vapor Barrier/Vapor Diffusion Retarder: Material with low permeability that is used to reduce moisture migration through building components .
Vapor Pressure: Natural force that drives moisture vapor to diffuse and equalize with other areas or zones with different moisture content .
Vent Damper: Barometrically controlled component that helps prevent backdrafting of flue gases .
Ventilation: Air turnover (intentional and unintentional) in a house .
Vermiculite: Ceramic insulation type commonly used before 1950 .
Volume: Formula for volume is length (linear feet) x width (linear feet) x height (linear feet) = volume (cubic feet) .
Water Vapor: Water in the form of gas . Water vapor is transported by air movement caused by pressure differences .
Whole-House Fan: Ventilation system that draws air from the house through the attic and out via attic ventilation .
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Wind Effect: Pressure-related effects of wind on a structure; positive pressurization on the windward side and negative pressurization on the downwind side .
Windwashing: Reductions in R-value of insulation caused by air movement through insulation .
Worst-Case Depressurization: Manipulation of exhaust and air-handling equipment, and interior door closures, while the house is in winter conditions, to depressurize the combustion appliance zone as much as possible .
Worst-Case Depressurization Test: Combustion safety testing performed in combustion appliance zone to determine the possibility of backdrafting occurring under worst-case conditions .
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