These specialties will be a little more foreign to most folks than architects or builders. They are essentially building science specialists. They are primarily interested in the integrity of the envelope of the home. The infiltration rate, duct leakage, indoor air quality, appliance efficiency and the sizing and operation of the heating/cooling system are all items these contractors are well versed in dealing with. HES stands for ‘Home Energy Solutions’ which is a state/utility program to help existing homeowners to reduce energy consumption. For existing homeowners, the HES program is the best deal ever. For $75, a trained specialist will test and evaluate the home, and take many remedial measures. Recommended measures beyond the scope of the program will be listed, and a path forward will be explained. Existing homes have lots of leaky parts that can be addressed to great benefit at very low cost. ‘HERS’ stands for home energy rating system. This is for new homes, and it is a point system that compares the particular house against what is called ‘code built’. A code built house is the standard, with 100 points. Each conservation measure over code built will reduce the point total, with 75 being ‘Energy Star’. Rebates are calculated based on the HERS result. Both programs require customers to hire the appropriate contractor to do the work, but there is simply no better money spent. Often, rebate money is contingent on participation in these programs.
Lantern Energy, 877-878-3306, lanternenergy.com
RPM Energy Solutions LLC, 203-823-0066, rpmenergysolutions.com