Practice Test Geeks(HERS) Certified Home Energy Rating System Rater Practice Test
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Index and Ratings Flashcards

7 cards from real HERS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Index and Ratings flashcards as text

  1. A HERS rater is evaluating an existing home built in 1985. Which type of HERS rating is most appropriate?

    Answer: Confirmed rating with full field verification and testing

    Existing homes require a confirmed rating that includes on-site inspection and diagnostic testing to accurately assess actual energy performance.

  2. How does the HERS Index treat on-site renewable energy generation such as solar PV?

    Answer: It reduces the home's energy consumption score, potentially driving the index below 100

    On-site renewable energy offsets the home's consumption, lowering the HERS Index and potentially achieving scores below zero.

  3. A home's HERS rating is listed as '52.' Which of the following statements is most accurate?

    Answer: The home uses 48% less energy than the reference home

    A HERS Index of 52 means the home uses 48% less energy than the reference home (which scores 100).

  4. Under RESNET standards, which category of energy end use is specifically EXCLUDED from the HERS Index calculation?

    Answer: Plug loads and process loads (in some rating types)

    Plug loads and process loads are excluded from the standard HERS Index calculation, which focuses on regulated energy end uses.

  5. What does a HERS 'sampling' protocol allow a rater to do?

    Answer: Test a subset of similar homes in a subdivision and apply results to the group

    The HERS sampling protocol allows raters to test a representative subset of similar homes in a development and apply those results across the group.

  6. A builder asks a HERS rater why their HERS 45 home qualifies for the DOE Zero Energy Ready Home program. What is the best explanation?

    Answer: The program requires a HERS score at or below 45 for most climate zones

    The DOE Zero Energy Ready Home program requires a HERS score at or below 45 (varies by climate zone), making a HERS 45 home eligible.

  7. How does window-to-floor area ratio affect the HERS Index in a hot climate?

    Answer: Excessive window area in a hot climate increases cooling loads and raises the HERS Index

    In hot climates, excessive glazing increases solar heat gain, raising cooling energy demand and the HERS Index.