Class Description

The REM/Rate computer software package is used by RESNET for all HERS ratings. This course teaches the basics of using REM/Rate correctly and efficiently to ensure correct data entry for an accurate HERS Index. The two-day course includes both classroom and field work.

Students will apply what was learned about residential plan take-off and the math skills covered in ONTILITY E-820, Introduction to Energy Efficiency. Classroom activities include entering values from a set of house plans into the software to produce a qualified rating as required for RESNET Rater or BPI Building Analyst certification. The field experience involves measuring and testing a house for all National Mortgage Industry Standards Minimum Rated Features, including Blower Door and Duct Blaster tests. Those values are entered into REM/Rate to produce a confirmed rating as required for RESNET HERS Rater and BPI Building Analyst certification.

Prerequisites

Prerequisite coursework:

• E-820 - Introduction to Energy Efficiency
• E-821 - Blower Door & Duct Blaster Training

Success will depend in part on your ability to learn and retain information in a short period of time. Required math skills include calculating area and volume and solving basic Algebraic formulas. Familiarity with computer software and data entry is recommended.

Course Objectives

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

• Analyze the minimum rated features of a home and enter the measurements and values into REM/Rate to produce a HERS Index value.
• Modify the measurements and heat loads to make and prioritize retrofit recommendations.
• Create a cost improvement analysis based on the improvement recommendations.
• Produce a Energy Efficient Mortgage Report and an Energy Efficient Appraisal addendum.
• Produce a whole house shell equipment sizing report.
• Perform a utility bill analysis using REM/Rate.
• Produce Code Compliance reports for new construction.

Student Evaluation

Student performance is evaluated on the basis of:

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

Textbooks & Instructiona

REM/Rate Video Series, published and produced by Architectural Energy
REM/Rate Users Guide, published by Architectural Energy
E-208 Modules, published by ONTILITYl Manuals

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.