Verified HVAC Installation For Energy Rating Companies
Energy Rating Companies (ERCs) currently participating in the ENERGY STAR Single-Family New Homes Program can expand their reach and diversify their service offerings by providing third-party verification services to the large HVAC replacement market.
The ENERGY STAR Verified HVAC Installation Program (ESVI) relies on 3rd party verifiers to perform file and field verification on the quality installation of HVAC equipment. ERCs with experience or understanding of the quality installation of HVAC equipment are good candidates to serve as verifiers in the ESVI Program.
ERCs currently participating in the ENERGY STAR Single-Family New Homes program are especially well positioned to provide verification services in the ESVI program. The ESVI program’s Verifier Checklist is based on the same concepts as the ENERGY STAR Single-Family New Homes’ Rater Checklist.
This table compares the documentation for both programs:
| Program Name | HVAC Installation Type | Required Contractor Documentation | Required Verifier Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| ENERGY STAR Verified HVAC Installation Program (ESVI) | Existing Homes | Verified HVAC Installation Contractor Checklist (ESVI–C) | Verified HVAC Installation Verifier Checklist (ESVI–V) |
| ENERGY STAR Single-Family New Homes | New Homes | HVAC System Quality Installation Contractor Checklist (HVAC–C) | HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist (HVAC–R) |
Role of Verifiers in ESVI
Verifiers play a key role by ensuring that HVAC systems are installed to meet the ESVI Program Requirements. Their roles and responsibilities include:
- Completing Section 1 of the ESVI Verifier Checklist to perform a file review on all installations.
- Completing Section 2 of the ESVI Verifier Checklist to perform a field review on a sample of installations.
- Verifying details of the installation, including parameters related to system design and selection of equipment, duct system performance, and verifying the ENERGY STAR certification of equipment. Field reviews also include verifying house characteristics, equipment installed, duct leakage, static pressure, airflow, and combustion safety testing.
EPA Support for Verifiers
EPA supports verifiers by promoting the value of the ENERGY STAR program to consumers, including the peace of mind that results from on-site verification and third-party review of HVAC installations.
Benefits for Verifiers
Energy Rating Companies (ERCs) that verify HVAC installation can provide services in the existing home marketplace while gaining national recognition as industry and environmental leaders. ENERGY STAR and its partners work together to promote the benefits of energy-efficient features of homes.
Verifiers are overseen by an EPA recognized HVAC Quality Installation Oversight Organization (H-QUITO). An H-QUITO is an independent, national organization that credentials HVAC companies and qualifies home energy professionals (such as raters) to provide verification services. The H-QUITO provides administrative processes for verifying the quality installation of HVAC replacement systems and in issuing the ENERGY STAR Verified HVAC Installation certificate.
To get involved, Energy Rating Companies can identify and contact the ESVI program sponsor operating in their area.