Class Description

This course teaches the proper way to test for air infiltration in a residential structure using Blower Door equipment and to test for HVAC duct system leaks using a Duct Blaster. Blower Door tests are part of all RESNET Confirmed Ratings and Comprehensive Energy Audits and both of the BPI certifications. Leaky ducts are the most important “Home Deficiency” to correct, and proper duct testing is the most important test for improvement in overall home efficiency. After January 1, 2012, this test will be conducted, at either rough stage or final stage of every new home constructed according to the 2009 IECC (International Energy Conservation Code).

Students taking this course will come away with the Technical Testing aspect of energy efficiency. Students with this knowledge will be very valuable to the HVAC, Insulation, Window and Doors, and Envelope industries.

Prerequisites

Prerequisite coursework:

• E-820 - Introduction to Energy Efficiency

Success will depend in part on the student’s ability to learn and retain information in a short period of time. Required math skills include measuring, calculating area and volume and solving basic Algebraic formulas.

Course Objectives

Upon Completion of this course, the student will have the ability to:

• Set up a house for a blower door air infiltration test using a nationally recognized method.
• Set up a house for a duct leakage test using a nationally recognized method.
• Calculate the volume of the home and determine the number of natural air changes per hour.
• Measure the amount of leakage in an HVAC duct system.
• Communicate effectively with the customer regarding the locations of air leaks and the impact duct leakage on the home and its occupants.
• Test a duct system and describe how to make it comply with current codes and standards.

Student Evaluation

Student performance is evaluated on the basis of:

• Class participation
• Lab participation
• Completion of assignments
• Attendance

Textbooks & Instructiona

Blower Door Manual, published by Energy Conservatory
Duct Blaster Manual, published by Energy Conservatory
E-210, E-211, Modules, published by ONTILITY

Attendance Policy

It is expected that students will attend scheduled classes regularly and on time. If an absence occurs, it is the responsibility of the student to make up all missed work. Students, who must withdraw from a class, will receive credit for work completed and may complete the course at a later date with instructor approval. Attendance will be tracked and maintained for various reporting purposes.

Accreditation and Evaluation

The curriculum for this course is based on the National Mortgage Industry Standards and the course is accredited by the Residential Energy Network (RESNET) and Building Performance Institute (BPI). In keeping with the standards of this accreditation, students are encouraged to provide informal feedback throughout the course. A survey is distributed to students on the last day of class whereby students are asked to evaluate the class and the instructor. This feedback is used to create an on-going professional development plan for instructors and to inform course improvements.

Students With Disabilities

This institution complies with Section 504 and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Students with disabilities who seek accommodations must make their requests knows when registering for a course or workshop. If a disability is identified after class has begun, a non-retroactive accommodation plan will be developed.