Hers Rating System

The new rating system evaluates the energy efficiency of a home compared to a computer-simulated reference house of identical size and shape as the rated home that meets minimum requirements of the 2004 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). The HERS rating results in a HERS Index score between 0 and 100, with the reference house assigned a score of 100 and a zero energy house assigned a score of 0. Each 1 percent reduction in energy usage (compared to the reference house) results in a one point decrease in the HERS score. Thus, an ENERGY STAR Qualified Home, required to be approximately 15 percent more energy efficient than 2004 IECC in the south requires a HERS Index of 85; and an ENERGY STAR Qualified Home, required to be approximately 20 percent more energy efficient than 2004 IECC in the north requires a HERS Index of 80.

Energy Star Label

                    Uniform Energy Rating System                   

(*Based on HERS Rating)