Services: Commercial Alterations

BarrierEnergy is your one-stop-shop for consulting, referrals, and assessments for your commercial alterations project. We will help you stay on schedule, on budget, and compliant with energy standards.

Title 24 Compliance

Title 24 of the California Energy Commission (CEC) outlines energy efficiency standards for new, altered, and existing buildings in the state of California. The HERS index gives buildings a score based on their energy efficiency, on a 0-150 scale. California requires a mandatory energy score, as well as mandatory compliance measures. Optional upgrades and tests can translate into compliance points. For more information, visit the CEC website.

Commercial Alterations

Commercial projects that fall under Title 24 commercial codes include multi-family dwelling units, storefronts, offices, and any common indoor space that is non-residential. Alterations consist of additions, remodels, and change-outs and energy efficiency upgrades. A change-out is when someone replaces a component of the HVAC system, such as the ductwork or the furnace. Any of these alterations require a HERS test by California state law. The technician must certify that the installation has remained within energy efficiency guidelines.

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In the beginning of a commercial construction project, permits must be applied for. To gain approval, Nonresidential Certificates of Compliance must verify that the plan-set for construction are within California Energy Code guidelines.

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E-Project Management

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We offer a simple solution to streamline your compliance process. We manage your electronic file by uploading Title 24 datae on your behalf, as required by the state. Typically, CalCerts is our first choice, but Cheers is another alternative. For your convenience, we will navigate the reistry and sign-off documents.

BarrierEnergy will take care of the paperwork and data entry for your project, from beginning to end!

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Pre-HERS / Existing Conditions

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Before architectural plans are drawn up, we must determine the best energy strategy for your project. First, we must assess and record existing conditions.

Pre-HERS is an investment in your project and hopes clients save thousands. After reporting the existing conditions to authorities, we will help you assess your budget to decide which upgrades will benefit you the most.

This preliminary measure will prevent any time delay down the road, and make sure your entire project runs smoothly. To learn more visit our blog post on Existing Conditions Reports.

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Consulting / Planning

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Projects go more smoothly when the architect, HERS Rater, and T-24 consultant discuss the project from beginning to end. We will offer consultation to help you stay on schedule, on budget, and compliant with energy standards. The advice we offer includes Q&A, compliance measures, brand selection, and referrals. Click here to learn more about what consultation contributes to your project.

The design plan is the foundation of your construction project. Our team will review your plan set to maximize the energy performance of your property. We will take on translating your plans into a Report, which shows an overview of all energy-consuming features.

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Kitchen Hood

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It’s important to keep the kitchen cool and the cooking area clean (free of airborne bacteria). Airflow requirements must be taken into account during construction.

As you are designing your kitchen, an expert will approve its compliance with efficiency standards. Read more on our page for kitchen hood testing.

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Air Balance

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Air balance refers to the even distribution of airflow throughout a building. When new ductwork or HVAC systems are installed, duct vents will be tested to certify consistent airflow in each room and level. Keep this in mind when designing your HVAC system.

Read more on our page for Air Balance Testing.

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Electrical Power Distribution System

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In order to optimize energy efficiency, the electrical power distribution system of a property must be carefully designed. Every system must keep in mind voltage requirements, load schedules, and energy metering. Depending on how large the business is, different energy systems have different needs.

So, the goal is to deisgn an efficient, yet cost effective Power Distribution System. We are the experts that will help you do just that, while adhering to California State efficiency requirements.

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Fenestration Approach (Doors & Windows)

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Fenestration refers to the arrangement of windows and doors on a building. California requires compliance with the types, locations, numbers, and sizes of windows. Windows are a surprising trap in a building because it is often overlooked.

Factors of thermal transmission include placement, reflectiveness, tinting, etc. Therefore, different kinds of windows and doors are required depending on the setting. We will consult you on which windows will fit best with your project while filling out all necessary documentation. Learn more about selecting the correct windows and doors here.

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HVAC

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Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, (HVAC) systems are an important factor in the energy efficiency of a building. Depending on the size and load capacity of the building, there will be a different requirements regarding these features. The HVAC system includes airflow (fan systems), appliances (heat pump, furnace etc.), and performance specifications.

We are here to make sure your project meets these requirements as set by Title 24. In addition, we will offer our recommendations of what materials and components to use for the best possible system design.

At BarrierEnergy, we understand all these calculations can be complicated time-consuming. We want to maximize your energy savings by offering you the expert advice you need. That’s why we’re dedicated to walking you through these processes. Reach out to one of our experts today.

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Solar Ready Area

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Currently, all new or altered buildings in the state of California must have sufficient space for solar panel installation. A Solar Ready Area is a large, relatively flat empty space on the roof, which could potentially hold solar panels.

This law was created as a precursor for PV solar requirements. Most new buildings will need to have solar panels installed unless they meet certain exemptions. Learn more on our page about Solar Ready Area and Solar Panels.

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Lighting

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In order to meet energy efficiency guidelines, lighting systems must adhere to certain requirements. For example, using energy-efficient bulbs, such as LED, will allow you to stay within the allotted power allowance. Another method of improving efficiency is to install lighting controls such as light sensors, automatic shut-off schedules, and so on.

Nonresidential lighting verifications cover indoor, outdoor, and sign lighting. Learn more about JA8 Lighting.

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Commercial Refrigeration

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Testing commercial refridgeration is within our area of expertise. Refrigeration is just another type of air conditioning. The condsensor must meet efficiency guidelines. The compressor system also has mandatory measures that only a trained technician can measure. Our team will guide you though planning your project, so that it will pass compliance testing.

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Hot Water Systems

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The minimum efficiency regulations for water heating systems are determined by the California Energy Commission. Commercial buildings may have multiple water heaters, storage tanks, and heater systems. Learning the calculations and codes can be complicated and time-consuming. That’s why we have a team of certified experts who are trained to take care of all the legwork. We know efficiency codes in and out!

Learn more about compliance credits on our page on efficient water heaters.

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Garage Exhaust

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Garage exhaust fans prevent air from being trapped in a commercial garage. They allow air circulation, which removes toxic vehicle fumes. While designing your garage, an expert technician can approve your plan-set, based upon their calculations.

In addition to ventilation system acceptance testing, garages are also required to maintain proper air pressure and carbon dioxide sensors. Reach out to an expert at BarrierEnergy today. We will fill out and submit all necessary paperwork from the California Energy Commission.

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Fan Power Consumptions

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Commercial buildings must meet energy standards, which dictate the power consumption of air conditioning fans. The Air Movement and Control Association (AMCA) developed the Fan Power Index as a universal measurement to monitor these standards. Fan efficiency is affected by electrical input horsepower, motors, fan size and so on.

At BarrierEnergy, our certified HERS Raters are certifieid to calculate these complex equations. That way, your project will pass the compliance phase.

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Elevators & Moving Walkways

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It is mandatory that escalators and moving walkways have an automatic speed control and a variable speed motor. They also must have sensors for approaching pedestrians. In addition, elevators are closed spaces and thusly must have proper lighting and ventilation.

Here is yet another form the California Energy Commission wants filled out properly and signed by a field technician. This is because the state must monitor and approve your building plans. A HERS Rater is licensed to calculate these variables. If your commercial project includes moving walkways, you can trust our team to guide you through energy code standards.

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Process Boilers

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Boilers use the combustion of fossil fuels to create steam, which is harnessed to produce thermal energy. A process boiler must have a capacity of at least 300,000 BTUs (British thermal units) per hour, while serving a process. A process refers to any activity that is related to HVACR (heating, ventiliation, air conditioning, refridgeration).

The process boilers compliance document contains a record of the equipment’s specific description. It must be filled out and approved by a licenesed technician in mathematical detail.

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Mechanical Systems

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Mechanical systems refer to equipment or piping systems that alter air temperature. Some examples include Forced Air Furnaces (FAUs) and gas space heaters. All of these features must be thoroughly planned and approved. Our technicians at BarrierEnergy are trained to make these calculations in mathematical detail.

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Cool Roof (Solar Reflective Index)

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A cool roof is designed with high thermal emittance and solar reflectance which reduces heat transfer. Alternatively, a radiant barrier is a reflective material with low thermal conduciveness that is installed on the underside of a roof to achieve efficiency.

Either or both of these efficient roof designs might be a requirement in your project. Learn more about this topic in our blog post Cool Roof Requirements.

California requires a minimum SRI (solar reflective index) value for all new roofs. This standardized measurement makes it possible to calculate and regulate thermal waste. Together, we can ensure your roofing design is in compliance with California energy codes.

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Envelope (Exterior) Approach

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A building envelope refers to the exterior construction of the building. Insulation is an important factor in the efficiency of a building, which is typically prescribed in the plan set.

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Next, the commercial construction project begins and fixtures are installed. Nonresidential Certificates of Installation are necessary to ensure that systems are installed according to current Energy Codes. During this step, we will take care of filling out, signing, and uploading all relevant Title 24 documents.

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Electrical Power Distribution

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Once the power distribution system plan has been put into action, it must be inspected. We must make sure it’s been installed according to the compliance document.

We are the experts that will help you do just that, while adhering to California State efficiency requirements.

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Envelope Sealing / Building Leakage

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A building envelope refers to its’ exterior construction. Building leakage thusly refers to how tightly a building is sealed as a whole. Air can leak into or out of a building from windows, doors, flooring, roofing, and so on. A tight seal is important because solving the problem will save money, comfort, and energy.

All parties responsible for the construction process must sign off on this document to authenticate the proper installation. They must visually inspect for gaps or cracks.

To learn more, visit our page on building leakage.

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Lighting

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Nonresidential lighting verifications cover indoor, outdoor, and sign lighting. Learn more about JA8 Lighting.

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Plumbing

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Plumbing must adhere to efficiency standards, like every system in a building. Piping types, shut-off systems, and other plumbing features fall under California Energy Commission guidelines. These documents verify that plumbing has been properly installed, according to the acceptance documents.

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Hot Water Systems

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Hot water systems must be inspected to ensure they were installed according to the plan set. We fill out the plumbing installer verification form and other compliance documentation if water heating credits were claimed in your plans. Learn more about compliance credits on our page on efficient water heaters.

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PV Solar

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Title 24 guidelines determine the requirements for solar in your project. Commercial projects under three stories high must have solar panels installed. In the 2022 code, this also carries over to high-rise structures. Learn more about solar regulations and exemptions.

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Following installation, a licensed technician must perform acceptance testing. At this stage, we will complete Nonresidential Certificates of Acceptance to authenticate compliance with California Building Energy Efficiency Standards, as per outlined in Title 24, section 6. All data will be submitted to proper authorities to demonstrate compliance.

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Envelope Leakage Testing / Building Air Leakage

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All parties responsible for the construction process must sign off on this document to authenticate the proper installation. They must visually inspect for gaps or cracks.

To learn more, visit our page on building leakage.

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Duct Leakage Testing

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Whenever changes are made to an existing HVAC system, technicians must test the internal pressure of the ductwork. According to California’s energy efficiency laws, we have a legal obligation to ensure the duct system is tightly sealed. If the pressure reading is not within approved guidelines, it must be sealed properly. Hence, we test when the building is at-rough before the walls are up.

As HERS Raters, this test is our specialty! For more information, visit our duct leakage testing page.

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Kitchen Hood Testing

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Once a new kitchen hood is installed, an air balance test measures the ratio of intake airflow vs output airflow. This test ensures kitchen hoods are operating properly according to energy efficiency regulation. Read more on our page for kitchen hood testing.

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Air Balance Testing

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Air balance refers to even distribution of airflow throughout a building. When new ductwork or HVAC systems are installed, duct vents will be tested to certify consistent airflow in each room and level. Read more on our page for Air Balance Testing.

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Valve Leakage Testing

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Heat pumps must be tested after their installation has been approved. Pump valves are used to regulate pressure levels in the water heating system. It’s important that pressure is within the approved values to optimize the effectiveness of the unit. A pressure problem can also lead to bigger problems with the plumbing system.

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Doors & Windows

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Fenestration refers to the arrangement of windows and doors on a building. California requires compliance with types, locations, numbers, and sizes of windows. Windows are a surprising trap in a building because it is often overlooked.

Learn more about the codes for windows and doors here.

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Lighting

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After lighting installations have been verified, a technician must perform acceptance testing. These are functional tests, for the actual performance of the lighting system. Lighting systems should function according to the acceptance documents. Learn more about JA8 Lighting.

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Outdoor Air

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The outdoor air certificate of acceptance is granted after a technician performs a variable air volume systems test. Basically, the airflow of supply vents will be tested to confirm there is adequate outdoor ventilation for the HVAC system. Supply vents provide a building with fresh, temperature controlled air. Outdoor air circulates inside a building to maintain air quality. There should be sufficient airflow, but still controlled.

At this stage, a field technician will be verifying the functionality of the outdoor air systems including supply fans, heat pumps and ductwork. Other compliance criteria consists of correct thermostat placement and programming, and so on.

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Indoor Airflow

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All ducts have a return vent to counter-balance supply vents. Supply vents expel temperature controlled air into a building. Opposingly, the return vent pulls air from inside the room to take it back to the furnace or conditioner. This keeps air moving cyclically and evenly throughout a building.

It is our job to verify the return vent has been installed properly and the airflow levels match current standards. Certified HERS Raters will hook a flow hood up to the return vent in order to read its airflow in cubic ft per minute. They will also test the return vents’ air economizer controls, demand control ventilation, and fan variable flow controls.

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AC Systems

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Testing the AC system after installation is important. This involves simulating its’ cooling features to make sure it can handle the buildings load capacity efficienctly. The system should be able to change modes depending on set schedules throughout the day. A licensed technician will also check the supply fan and condensing unit. An AC system should be able to regulate temperature in a building effectively.

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Energy Management Systems

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An Energy Management Control System (EMCS) is a computerized program that coordinates the energy consumption of a building through components such as HVAC, lighting, and water heating. By monitoring system loads and environmental factors in real-time, it automatically adjusts itself to maximize energy savings.

The purpose of acceptance testing is to confirm the EMCS is operating correctly, in concession with energy efficiency standards.

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Garage Exhaust

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Garage exhaust fans prevent air from being trapped in a commercial garage. They allow air circulation, which is important to remove toxic vehicle fumes. A certified technician can use a duct blower to test the exhaust fans airflow. Airflow rates should match the compliane calculations, in cross-referrance.

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Elevators & Moving Walkways

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It is mandatory that escalators and moving walkways have automatic speed controls as well as variable speed motors. They also must have sensors for approaching pedestrians. Here is yet another acceptance form the California Energy Commission wants filled out properly and signed by a field technician. Technicians are trained to collect this data and analyze it in terms of mechanical efficiency.

In addition, elevators are closed spaces and must have proper lighting and ventilation. A HERS Rater is licensed to verify airflow and lighting efficiency. If your commercial project includes moving walkways, you can trust our team to take care of your acceptance needs.

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Refrigerated Warehouses

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Testing on refrigerated warehouses is broken up into five categories. Those categories are fan motor controls, evaporative condensor controls, cooled condensor controls, variable speed compressors, and electric. After the initial contruction inspection, functional tests are performed on these aspects of the refrigeration system. A HERS Rater is qualified to perform these tests and sign off on acceptance documents.

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HVAC

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Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, (HVAC) systems are important factors in the energy efficiency of a building. Depending on the size and load capacity of the building, there will be a different requirements regarding these features. The HVAC system includes airflow (fan systems), appliances (heat pump, furnace etc.), and performance specifications.

The HVAC system must be tested to confirm it functions according to the approved plan-set.

At BarrierEnergy, we understand all these calculations can be complicated time-consuming. We want tyour construction project to progress smoothly. That’s why we’re dedicated to walking you through these processes. Reach out to one of our experts today.

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Lastly, Nonresidential Certificates of Verification authenticate that the project was completed in compliance with HERS Energy Code standards. As your registered HERS Providers, our HERS Raters will complete these forms. These legally binding documents ensure consistency between the plan and the actualization of the commercial building plan.

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Project Status Report

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A Project Status Report lists the completion status of each necessary HERS component in a project. All pertinent information to the project will be listed, as well as what forms have been completed. Periodically, we will update the PSR, which will note completed progress with a green dot. Enforcement agencies can access this report at any time, as it will be used by officials to authenticate Title 24 compliance.

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Duct Leakage Diagnostic Test

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When the project is at final, all data regarding the new duct system will be verified and recorded. Any problems that were uncovered in the initial testing phase must be corrected by this point. Our technicians will make a final compliance statement to validate the efficiency of the duct system. Click here to learn more about duct leakage testing.

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Envelope (Exterior Leakage) Diagnostic Test

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At final, building enclosures will be tested and verified. Any problems that were uncovered in the initial testing phase must be corrected by this point. Our technicians will make a final compliance statement to diagnose the efficiency of the building envelope.

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Hot Water System Distribution

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Hot Water Distribution refers to what plumbing style is used to deliver the water. The most common is standard distribution, but certain distribution types can get you extra compliance credits. Learn more on our page about water heating.

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Mechanical Exhaust

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The final verification paperwork covers kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans. All forms of ventilation contribute to the overall indoor air quality of the building.

More Services

In addition to compliance related services, we offer other miscellaneous tests and services. Take a look, and get a quote from us today!

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LEED Certification

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LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a global system for rating the environmentalism of buildings. As LEED Green Associates, we can get your project certified LEED. This extra level of certification will increase the value and environmental benefits of the property.

Through LEED you can also aquire points and credits for your project. We will help you choose which credits to pursue for the most payback. The amount of points obtained will determine which level of certification you are rewarded: Certified, Silver, Gold or Platinum.

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Energy Star Certification

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Energy Star is another certification program, run by the EPA (US Environmental Protection Agency). Buildings that score a 75 or higher on this scale, can qualify for this additional designation. All that you need is a licensed professional to sign off on your energy rating.

Buildings with the Energy Star stamp have higher market value while saving time and resources in the long run. It’s a great return on investment.

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Energy Efficiency Audit

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We are licensed by ASHRAE to perform energy efficiency audits. A licensed technician will analyze all features of the building for efficiency. An energy audit provides an opportunity to assess what improvements could be made to make the building more efficient.

Not only will money and resources be saved, but creature comfort will improve. We recommend this test be performed every year. This will identify and prevent major expenses, such as overworked HVAC systems that cause system collapse.

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Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM)

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The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) offers an Energy Efficient Mortgage program to help make green energy upgrades affordable. You can save up to half a percent on your mortgage with certain providers if you pass California State Energy Efficient Mortgage guidelines. An opportunity to save tens of thousands of dollars when purchasing, selling, or refinancing your property is huge! In order to qualify, an energy assessment will need to be performed in order to verify basic mandatory upgrades. This option is cost effective and easy.

Energy Efficient Mortgages can also be used for upgrading new homes. In this instance, HERS Raters would be conducting a home energy assessment to help determine the cost effectiveness of upgrades. The expected savings from installing efficiency upgrades will offset the cost of the improvements. Based on these findings, the FHA approves an allocated amount towards energy efficient upgrades. Therefore, the FHA can guarantee an energy package loan to cover initial installation fees by lumping it in with the mortgage. Reach out to our experts for more information about this service.

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PACE Loan / Special Programs

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PACE is one of the many programs that exist in California to help their residence afford energy-efficienct improvements. PACE loans are offered through government approved third parties. First, an Energy assessment must be completed by a licensed inspector. That’s where we come in!

We know which programs will work best for you. Reach out to our experts today.

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Warranty Sign-Off

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If an appliance in your home has a current warranty, and it breaks, you would need a certified inspector to sign-off approval for replacing it. The reason is because warranties are not applicable in certain situations. The inspector would make sure that the appliance was installed properly according to California state law as well as according to the manufactures intructions. That way they can prove that the fault is due to the manufacturer.

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Miscellaneous Compliance Testing

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State codes enforce basic minimum requirements for efficiency. However, local codes can vary from area to area. There are federal and local special addendums and programs.

Our technicians will work with the owner and builders to make sure every step of the construction process is done properly, given codes in certain municipalities.

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Basic Health and Safety

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The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set a maximum level for every toxin that could be found in a home.

If you are experiencing symptoms of sickness for no apparent reason, it may be a good idea to get some general tests done. We can ensure proper airflow, temperature control, and exterior seal. Reach out to an expert at BarrierEnergy; we are here to protect your health.

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Thermostat Programming

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We offer indoor and outdoor climate control systems integration and programming. All thermostats must be programmed and the program must be known. This system dictates temperature conditions, security alarms, and time settings.

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Energy Efficient Tax Credits

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To incentivise energy efficinecy, the government offers many tax credit oppurtunities and programs.

For example, 45L is a tax credit that encourages the construction of energy efficient residential properties. Contractors may be eligible for a $2,000 tax credit per energy efficient unit. In order to qualify, a certified field technician must verify the efficiency of the dwelling unit(s) meets the programs standards.

To learn more about the special programs and savings you could qualify for, reach out to our expert team today.

(888) 383-HERS (4377)

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