Weatherization Energy Auditor Single Family
Course Description
Energy Auditor course is from the WAPTAC Standardized curricula and is based on a National Renewable Energy Laboratory/U.S. Department of Energy Job Task Analysis (JTA) of the same name. This two-week course provides the student with an in-depth understanding of the weatherization auditing process. Topics include diagnosing basic energy-related issues, simple moisture problems, combustion safety testing and developing a scope of work. Students will study how the house works as a system, and learn how to apply building science principles to identify, prioritize, and correct energy-related issues within the building envelope, as well as health and safety concerns associated with these issues. This course is a great stepping-stone to becoming a certified BPI energy auditor or RESNET rater.
This is a lecture-lab course. Topics will be presented in a classroom setting and then followed up with student involvement in the lab. The class will be geared toward little or no previous training in the field. Student participation is very important. The classroom / lab facility has 7 training modules where students can work with a partner to obtain some of the basic building science skills needed to be an auditor. These modules and various props will allow the students hands on use of the diagnostic tools and equipment that they will be using in the field. For a final exam, the students will take one written and three hands-on tests of energy assessment skills. Upon successful completion of these tests, each student receives a certificate of completion.
Course Objectives
- Inspect and evaluate the building envelope
- Perform basic math calculations
- Recognize the different HVAC systems and fuel types being used
- House as a system
- Calculate combustion/dilution air requirements
- Properly perform combustion appliance testing (worst-case, steady-state, & draft)
- Perform ASHRAE 62.2 calculations and airflow measurements
- Perform duct diagnostic testing (pressure pan & duct tester)
- Perform building airtightness testing (blower door)
- Use lab experience to give students a practical understanding of the lessons being taught
Course Prerequisites
To enroll in this course, students must be 18 or older and have basic literacy skills, an understanding of basic math, and understanding of basic building science.
Class Schedule and Sequence of Instruction
|
Day |
Session |
Hours |
|
1 |
Introduction to Weatherization |
2 |
|
Auditors Toolbox |
2 | |
|
Utility Bill Analysis |
1 | |
|
Building Assessments |
3 | |
|
2 |
Building Assessments (continued) |
3 |
|
Field Trip Building Assessments |
3 | |
|
Attic Ventilation |
1 | |
|
Moisture Assessment |
1 | |
|
3 |
Combustion Appliances |
8 |
|
4 |
Cooling Measures |
2 |
|
Base Load Measurements |
2 | |
|
Indoor Air Quality |
1 | |
|
Mechanical Ventilation |
2 | |
|
Deferral of Services |
1 | |
|
5 |
HVAC Distribution (& Duct Diagnostics) |
8 |
|
6 |
Blower Door |
4 |
|
Interpreting Infrared |
2 | |
|
Zone Pressure Diagnostics |
2 | |
|
7 |
Field Trip Bringing it all Together |
4 |
|
Mobile Home Assessment |
2 | |
|
Measure Selection Guidelines |
1 | |
|
Generating a Work Order |
1 | |
|
8 |
Energy Audit Software (NEAT / MHEA) |
8 |
|
9 |
Energy Audit Software (continued) |
8 |
|
10 |
Calculating Envelope Energy Loss |
2 |
|
Building Shell Retrofit Strategies |
2 | |
|
Written & Performance Final Exams |
4 |
Student Registration Form
Students are required to complete and sign the class registration form. The signed form must be handed in to the instructor on the first day of class. Click here for the form.Florida Solar Energy Center
Room 111
1679 Clearlake Road
Cocoa
FL
32922
United States Of America
