Certified Energy Auditor Certification Practice Test

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Sample Certified Energy Auditor Certification Practice Questions

Try these questions from our free Certified Energy Auditor Certification practice tests. The correct answer and an explanation follow each question.

1. An energy auditor is hired by a facility manager whose only instruction is to "find ways to reduce our high energy costs." What is the most critical first step the auditor must take to develop an effective audit strategy?

   • A. Immediately request and analyze the last 36 months of utility billing data.
   • B. Schedule a comprehensive, multi-day site walk-through to inspect all equipment.
   • C. Work with the facility manager to formally define the specific audit scope, objectives, and boundaries.
   • D. Install data loggers on the main electrical service and other large energy-consuming systems.

Answer: C. Work with the facility manager to formally define the specific audit scope, objectives, and boundaries.

Before any detailed analysis or on-site work can begin, the auditor and client must agree on the audit's scope and objectives. This ensures both parties have the same expectations regarding the audit's depth (e.g., ASHRAE Level 1, 2, or 3), physical boundaries (e.g., specific buildings or processes), and goals (e.g., cost reduction, carbon footprint reduction, etc.). This step guides all subsequent activities, including data requests and site visit planning. [14]

Answer: C. 21,900 kWh

Each fixture saves 60W (75W − 15W). With 50 fixtures operating 12 hours/day for 365 days: 60W × 50 × 12h × 365 = 13,140,000 Wh = 13,140 kWh. Wait — recalculating: 0.060 kW × 50 × 12 × 365 = 13,140 kWh. The correct answer is 13,140 kWh. However, if the auditor measures 50 fixtures at 60W savings each over 12 hours for 365 days: 50 × 60W × 12 × 365 = 13,140,000 Wh = 13,140 kWh. Option A is correct.

Answer: A. Implement a duct static pressure reset strategy.

Maintaining a high, constant static pressure forces the fan to work harder than necessary, especially at part-load conditions when VAV boxes are closed. A static pressure reset strategy dynamically lowers the pressure setpoint when demand is low, saving significant fan energy according to the fan affinity laws. While calibrating VAV boxes is good practice and increasing the chilled water setpoint saves chiller energy, neither addresses the primary inefficiency of constant high fan pressure. Replacing the fan with a larger one would likely increase energy use.

Answer: B. ASHRAE Level 1

An ASHRAE Level 1 audit, also known as a walk-through or screening audit, is the correct answer. This level involves a preliminary review of energy data, a brief site visit to spot obvious operational and maintenance issues, and benchmarking to determine if a more detailed audit is warranted. It focuses on identifying low-cost or no-cost savings opportunities.

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