HERSRaterLA Information

HERSRaterLA provides quick, efficient and reasonably priced HERS (Home Energy Rating System [Title-24] field verifications for heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems as sell as insulation, plumbing and solar photo voltaic certifications for both residences and light commercial buildings. HERSRater LA also provides Air Balancing for new and redesigned duct systems. HERSraterLA is a CalCERTS certified (2005, 2008 & 2013 building code standards) special inspector for Alterations and New construction. CalCERTS is certified by the California Energy Commission (CEC) to license HERS raters. We serve the greater Los Angeles area and provide independent field verifications on residential and non-residential projects requiring these HERS verifications. Our tests include:Duct Leakage Testing ("Duct Blasting" - ensuring that ducts do not leak more than a specified amount by pressurizing the ducts and measuring how much air escapes). Refrigerant Charge and Airflow (RCA) Test to ensure the proper amount of refrigerant in the system and enough air blowsExisting Conditions Verification (CF-3R-EXC-20) for additions and alterations. Blower Door Testing (ensure a house does not leak more than a specified amount by pressurizing the house [windows and doors tightly closed] andmeasuring how much air escapes). Also called: Reduced Building InfiltrationSolar Photo Voltaic (PV) certificationQuality Insulation Installation (a rigorous inspection of insulation installations)EER verification (verify specified equipment is installed)TXV verification (verify the existence of an air conditioning part: Thermostatic Expansion Valve [2005 regulations only])Fan Efficacy (to insure the blower fan's wattage draw is less than or equal to the ratio 0.58 watts per cubic feet or air being moved)Maximum Cooling Capacity (verify the engineering of a heating and/or cooling system)Buried Ducts (verify the insulation of ducts buried in attic insulation) If one chooses to burythose ducts found in the attic deeply in the attic insulation, one can increase the distribution efficiency of those ducts. A Whole House Home Energy Rating System (HERS II) Rating is thorough examination of a home's energy features to quantify the cost effectiveness of proposed energy upgrades. Air Balancing for new and redesigned duct systems in residences and light commercial buildings. Projects that require HERS verifications:As of October 1, 2005, home or office ducts must be tested for leaks when a central air conditioner or furnace is or replaced. Ducts that leak 15 % or more must be repaired to reduce the leaks. If a whole new system is installed, it can only leak up to 6% of its total airflow capacity. As of July 2014, HERS field verifications are needed for Duct Sealing everywhere in California.