HVAC Grading
Comfort complaints are common in the Southeast. Let us help you verify things were done correctly before closing.
Avoid Comfort
Callbacks
Qualify for More
45L Tax Credits
Lower Your
HERS Scores
HVAC Grading and Rating Services
Poorly designed & installed HVAC systems are common. In fact, studies show that 50% have improper airflow, and 60-80% have improper refrigerant charge.
Our HVAC grading services are designed to help homebuilders avoid comfort callbacks and ensure your systems are designed and installed properly.
Manual J & S Design Review
Total Duct Leakage Testing
Blower Fan
Air Flow Testing
Blower Fan
Watt Draw Testing
Refrigerant Charge Testing
ANSI RESNET / ACCA / ICC Standard 310
HVAC grading is typically performed in tandem with high performance building programs, such as HERS Ratings or ENERGY STAR Certification. This allows homebuilders to cost effectively improve HERS Index Scores & qualify homes for the 45L tax credits.
There are 3 HVAC installation grade levels (l, ll & lll). Grade I installation can improve the HERS Index score by up to 6 points.
ENERGY STAR home builders will enjoy a new streamlined certification option through HVAC Grading (Track A). This pathway does not require the use of a credentialed HVAC contractor or completion of the HVAC commissioning checklist. We take care of all that for you!
FAQs
HVAC Grading can be performed in lieu of using a credentialed HVAC Contractor. This opens your options for selecting the contractor of choice.
- SEER- Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating: Higher SEER means more efficient air conditioning on your heat pump. Our market code minimum is 14 SEER. Look for a 15 SEER or higher if you want an efficient heat pump!
- HSPF – Heating Seasonal Performance Factor: The higher the HSPF, the more efficient the heat pump. Our market code minimum is 8.2 HSPF. Look for a 9 HPSF or higher if you want an efficient heating system. Contrary to common sense in our hot humid climate, a better HSPF will yield more annual savings than a better SEER.
- AFUE – Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency: The higher the AFUE rating, the more efficient the furnace. Our market code minimum is 80 AFUE. Look for a 92 AFUE or better if you want an efficient furnace!
MERV is the industry standard for air filter performance. The higher the MERV rating, the more particulates the filter can pull out of the air, which leads to cleaner indoor air.
How It Works
- Step 1: Schedule a meeting to review your goals and challenges
- Step 2: We develop an HVAC Grading Package to fit your needs
- Step 3: Our team completes HVAC Grading services during inspections, and you receive instant feedback with recommendations on how to improve comfort
- Step 4: We provide reporting for you to monitor & track trends/improvement over time
About Us
North Carolina’s solar power and building performance expert. Founded in 2001, we’ve worked for 20+ years to improve the way people make and use energy.
© 2023 Southern Energy Management, Inc.