When you’re shopping for a new car, you can compare gas mileage to estimate the lifetime cost difference between models. The same is true for calculating AFUE and SEER ratings when selecting a replacement furnace or A/C system for your South Plains home. There’s also a home energy rating score that can help you with buying or selling a home, or upgrading the energy efficiency of your current home. It’s called HERS.
Home Energy Ratings
More homeowners are finding out about home energy rating system (HERS) index. HERS is the nationally-recognized standard for calculating a home’s energy efficiency. With HERS scores, you can calculate the estimated expenditures of home heating, cooling, water heating and more.
HERS Scores Basics
As stipulated by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), HERS grading uses homes built to the 2004 International Energy Conservation Code as a reference score of 100. Homes are assessed and graded for HERS score by certified raters. The lower the number, the greater a home’s energy efficiency by the difference of the score and 100 reference score.
For example, a home with a HERS index score of 75 is 25 percent more efficient than the energy-efficient reference home of similar size and design. A home with a HERS index score of 120 is 20 percent less efficient than the reference home model.
Following are ideal times to utilize HERS:
- Buying a home – When you’re in the market for a new home, ask for HERS scores. You can compare home efficiency and projected utility costs, which are typically the largest home-ownership expense beyond the mortgage.
- Selling a home – With a good HERS score in hand, you’re home is more attractive to prospective buyers.
- Efficiency upgrades – Many home efficiency upgrades, such as sealing and insulating, are practical solutions to lowering your energy bills and enhancing home comfort. HERS can help.
For more home energy rating information, check out Bruce Thornton Air Conditioning’s home efficiency solutions, or call 806-589-1014!
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