The Home Energy Rating System Index, which was developed by Residential Energy Services Network or RESNET, is the industry standard by which a home’s energy efficiency is measured. It’s frequently referenced as the new miles-per-gallon sticker for homes, and for good reason. It’s a comprehensive measure of a home’s energy efficiency that is easy for both the tradesman and the average Joe to understand.
A home receives a HERS Index score when a RESNET-certified home energy rater analyzes its energy consumption habits. The HERS measure is a handy reference for builders interested in improving their construction practices, as well as a great marketing tool when they want to sell homes that have achieved desirable scores. The tool is not just for builders, though. Homeowners also use the tool to identify ways to improve the energy efficiency of their own homes as they work to reduce utility bills. Homebuyers can use it to comparison shop as HERS Index scores can be included on real estate MLS listings. Further, the Department of Energy, Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Environmental Protection Agency have also adopted the measurement standard as their own. In fact, several jurisdictions throughout the country have incorporated the HERS Index Score into their building energy codes.