ENERGY STAR Qualified Homes

ENERGY STAR Qualified Homes
HVAC SYSTEM QUALITY INSTALLATION RATER CHECKLIST 1 Footnotes: 1. The HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist is designed to align with the requirements of ASHRAE and published addenda and ANSI / ACCA’s 5 QI-2010 protocol, thereby improving the performance of HVAC equipment in new homes when compared to homes built to minimum code. However, these features alone cannot prevent all ventilation, indoor air quality, and HVAC problems, for instance those caused by a lack of occupant maintenance. Therefore, this checklist is not a guarantee of proper ventilation, indoor air quality, or HVAC performance. This checklist with supporting documents may also be used to demonstrate compliance with Indoor airPLUS specifications 4.1, 4.2, 4.5, 4.6, and 7.1.

TABLE OF CONTENTS Section 1. Review of HVAC System Quality Installation Contractor Checklist 2 Section 2. Duct Quality Installation - Applies to All Heating, Cooling, Ventilation, Exhaust, and Pressure Balancing Ducts Section 3. Duct Insulation - Applies to All Heating, Cooling, Supply Ventilation, and Pressure Balancing Ducts 12 HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

TABLE OF CONTENTS Section 4. Duct Leakage - Applies to All Heating, Cooling, and Balanced Ventilation Ducts Section 5. Whole-building Delivered Ventilation Section 6. Controls Section 7. Ventilation Air Inlets & Ventilation Source HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

TABLE OF CONTENTS Section 8. Local Mechanical Exhaust Section 9. Ventilation & Exhaust Fan Ratings (Exemptions for HVAC and Remote- Mounted Fans) 30 Section 10. Combustion Appliances Section 11. Filtration HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

SECTION 1. REVIEW OF HVAC SYSTEM QUALITY INSTALLATION CONTRACTOR CHECKLIST 2
1.1. HVAC System Quality Installation Contractor checklist completed in its entirety and collected for records, along with documentation on ventilation system (1.3), full load calculations (2.18), AHRI certificate (3.15), and balancing report (10.2). HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

Critical Point: Briefly discuss the HVAC CONTRACTOR checklist as compared to the HVAC RATER checklist. Rater is not verifying accuracy of load calc, but verifying that certain inputs were used correctly. Summary: We want to discuss 3 key items from the HVAC Contractor checklist that would be useful for a Rater to be involved with and hopefully verify success in the building. Those items are on the preceding 3 slides. These items are not required to be checked by ENERGY STAR. Only the items mentioned under the rater checklist 1.2 requirements need to be checked. From Sam: Important to emphasize HVAC contractor is required to provide this completed checklist to the rater along with the sizing calculations. Some key checklist items do require the rater to verify the HVAC contractor followed EPA verification requirements for that measure. Important to note that the corresponding HVAC Quality Installation Contractor Checklist measures are shown in parentheses for each of these items. Footnotes: 2. The Rater is only responsible for ensuring that the Contractor has completed the Contractor checklist in its entirety and verifying the discrete objective parameters referenced in Section 1 of this checklist, not for assessing the accuracy of the load calculations or field verifications included or to verify the accuracy of every input on the Contractor checklist.

Critical Point: Summary: Construction Phase: Inspection: Footnotes: 2. The Rater is only responsible for ensuring that the Contractor has completed the Contractor checklist in its entirety and verifying the discrete objective parameters referenced in Section 1 of this checklist, not for assessing the accuracy of the load calculations or field verifications included or to verify the accuracy of every input on the Contractor checklist.

SECTION 1. REVIEW OF HVAC SYSTEM QUALITY INSTALLATION CONTRACTOR CHECKLIST
1.2 Review the following parameters related to system cooling design, selection, and installation from the HVAC Contractor checklist (Contractor checklist item # indicated in parenthesis): HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

(Contractor checklist item # indicated in parenthesis):
SECTION 1. REVIEW OF HVAC SYSTEM QUALITY INSTALLATION CONTRACTOR CHECKLIST 2 1.2 Review the following parameters related to system cooling design, selection, and installation from the HVAC Contractor checklist (Contractor checklist item # indicated in parenthesis): Outdoor design temperatures (2.4) are equal to the 1% and 99% ACCA Manual J design temperatures for contractor-designated design location 4 HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

1.2.2 Home orientation (2.5) matches orientation of rated home
SECTION 1. REVIEW OF HVAC SYSTEM QUALITY INSTALLATION CONTRACTOR CHECKLIST 2 Home orientation (2.5) matches orientation of rated home Number of Occupants (2.6) equals number of occupants in rated home 5 Conditioned floor area (2.7) is within ±10% of conditioned floor area of rated home Window area (2.8) is within ±10% of calculated window area of rated home Predominant window SHGC (2.9) is within 0.1 of predominant value in rated home 6 HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

Listed latent cooling capacity (3.10) exceeds design latent heat gain (2.12) Listed sensible cooling capacity (3.11) exceeds design sensible heat gain (2.13) Listed total cooling capacity (3.12) is % (or % for Heat Pumps in Climate Zones 4-8) of design total heat gain (2.14), or next nominal size 7 HVAC manufacturer and model numbers on installed equipment, contractor checklist (3.1, 3.3, 5.1), and AHRI certificate or OEM catalog data all match 8 HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

Using reported liquid line (6.3) or suction line (6.5) pressure, corresponding temp. (as determined using pressure/temperature chart for refrigerant type) matches reported condenser (7.1) or evaporator (7.5) saturation temperature (+/- 3 degrees) 9 Calculated subcooling (7.1 minus 6.4) or superheat (6.6 minus 7.5) value equals reported target subcooling (7.3) or superheat (7.7) temperature 9 HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

Critical Point: Summary: Construction Phase: Inspection: From Sam: Important to emphasize rater is not liable for the HVAC contractor work, sizing, and equipment selection. They just will be verifying the checklist was completed as required by EPA. The items in this group are asking the rater to objectively verify the HVAC contractor used appropriate inputs in their sizing calculations and equipment installed has nameplate specifications consistent with those specified from the calculations. Footnotes: 4. The number of occupants among all HVAC systems in the home shall be equal to the number of RESNET-defined bedrooms plus one. Occupants listed for systems for which the header of the contractor checklist indicates that it is designed to handle temporary occupant loads, as defined in footnote 3 of the HVAC System Quality Installation Contractor Checklist, shall be permitted to exceed this limit. 5. “Predominant” is defined as the SHGC value used in the greatest amount of window area in the home. 6. For cooling systems, the next largest nominal piece of equipment may be used that is available to satisfy the latent and sensible requirements. Single-speed systems generally have OEM nominal size increments of ½ ton. Multi-speed or multi-stage equipment may have OEM nominal size increments of one ton. Therefore, the use of these advanced system types can provide extra flexibility to meet the equipment sizing requirements. 7. In cases where the condenser unit is installed after the time of inspection by the Rater, the HVAC manufacturer and model numbers on installed equipment can be documented through the use of photographs provided by the HVAC Contractor after installation is complete. 8. If contractor has indicated that an OEM test procedure has been used in place of a sub-cooling or super-heat process and documentation has been attached that defines this procedure, then the box for “n/a” shall be checked for this item.

1.3 Rater-verified supply & return duct static pressure<110% of contractor values (9.3, 9.4) HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

Critical Point: Air Flow, Heat Flow Summary: Follow directions based on how your pressure gauge manual specifies Construction Phase: Final Inspection:

SECTION 2. DUCT QUALITY INSTALLATION
SECTION 2. DUCT QUALITY INSTALLATION - Applies to All Heating, Cooling, Ventilation, Exhaust, and Pressure Balancing Ducts 2.1 Connections and routing of ductwork completed without kinks or sharp bends No excessive coiled or looped flexible ductwork Flexible ducts in unconditioned space not installed in cavities smaller than outer duct diameter; in conditioned space not installed in cavities smaller than inner duct diameter 2.4 Flexible ducts supported at intervals as recommended by mfr. but at a distance < 5 ft. Critical Point: Flexible ducts should be supported by some method (nylon straps, wire, bottom chord of open web truss, etc.) at least every 48”. The ducts should not bend or turn sharper than 90 degrees at any section in the “run.” DROP WIRE AS A SUPPORT SYSTEM> Summary: Every bend and curve in a flex duct restricts air movement and decreases air flow velocity. Regular support and gentle bends allow ducts to achieve manufacturer specified performance.

SECTION 2. DUCT QUALITY INSTALLATION - Applies to All Heating, Cooling, Ventilation, Exhaust, and Pressure Balancing Ducts 2.5 Building cavities not used as supply or return ducts unless they meet items 3.2, 3.3, 4.1, and 4.2 of this checklist. 2.6 HVAC ducts, cavities used as ducts, and combustion inlets and outlets may pass perpendicularly through exterior walls but shall not be run within exterior walls unless at least R-6 continuous insulation is provided on exterior side of the cavity, along with an interior and exterior air barrier where required by the Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist. Critical Point: Using building cavities as ducts can be very tough to meet the leakage and insulation requirements. It can also be very expensive to fix if fail final inspection. Summary: Its easier and faster to use real ducts HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

2.7 Quantity & location of supply and return duct terminals match contractor balancing report. 2.8 Bedrooms pressure-balanced using any combination of transfer grills, jump ducts, dedicated return ducts, and/or undercut doors to either: a) provide 1 sq. in. of free area opening per 1 CFM of supply air, as reported on the contractor-provided balancing report; or Critical Point: Homes with central return systems need pressure relief in rooms to allow conditioned air back to system. Summary: HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

b) achieve a Rater-measured pressure differential < 3 Pa (0.012 in. w.c.) with respect to the main body of the house when bedroom doors are closed and the air handler is operating.12,13 Critical Point: Homes with central return systems need pressure relief in rooms to allow conditioned air back to system. Summary: HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

2.1 Connections and routing of ductwork completed without kinks or sharp bends.10 Critical Point: Summary: HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

Critical Point: Air Flow — Picture Description: Construction Phase: Inspection: Footnotes: 9. Kinks are to be avoided and are caused when ducts are bent across sharp corners such as framing members. Sharp bends are to be avoided and occur when the radius of the turn in the duct is less than one duct diameter.

2.1 Connections and routing of ductwork completed without kinks or sharp bends.9 A Critical Point: Air flow can be limited to individual rooms by kinked or crushed ducts. Overall ESP is increased too limiting overall fan flow Picture Description: Duct partially crushed by framing. The good duct is not crushed by framing and allows for all air to pass through duct unimpeded. Construction Phase: Rough in Inspection: Rough in or insulation Duct is kinked in cavity. Duct is run straight and supported properly. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

2.1 Connections and routing of ductwork completed without kinks or sharp bends.9 B Critical Point: Air Flow — Air flow can be limited to individual rooms by kinked or crushed ducts. Overall ESP is increased too limiting overall fan flow Picture Description: Kinked and folded ducts caused by poor planning The good picture shows ducts that have proper planning and are not kinked or have sharp bends meaning air can flow through freely. Construction Phase: Rough in or insulation Inspection: Rough in or insulation Ducks crammed into cavity, kinked and sharply bent. Ducts are run straight and supported properly. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

2.1 Connections and routing of ductwork completed without kinks or sharp bends.9 C Critical Point: Air Flow — Fan performance limited by kinked, folded or otherwise mutilated ducts Picture Description: Folded bath fan vent – when the duct was installed it was probably not pulled taut which caused the bunching up. This will lower the CFM output of the fan. The good picture shows a duct properly installed. The duct is straight to the exterior and will provide minimal resistance to the bath fan. Construction Phase: Rough in Inspection: Rough in or insulation Excessive length of duct installed causing sharp bends. Fan housing was oriented in the correct direction to allow proper exhaust duct installation. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

2.2 No excessive coiled or looped flexible ductwork.11 Critical Point: Summary:

Critical Point: Air Flow — Picture Description: Construction Phase: Inspection: Footnotes: 10. Ducts shall not include coiled or looped ductwork except to the extent needed for acoustical control. Balancing dampers or proper duct sizing shall be used instead of loops to limit flow to diffusers. When balancing dampers are used, they shall be located at the trunk to limit noise unless the trunk will not be accessible when the balancing process is conducted. In such cases, Opposable Blade Dampers (OBD) or dampers that are located in the duct boot are permitted.

2.2 No excessive coiled or looped flexible ductwork.11 A
Critical Point: Air Flow — Air flow can be limited to individual rooms by kinked or crushed ducts. Overall ESP is increased too limiting overall fan flow Picture Description: This is not a good picture Construction Phase: Rough in Inspection: Rough in Insulation Excessive length of duct installed. Duct is run straight and supported properly. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

2.2 No excessive coiled or looped flexible ductwork.11 B
Critical Point: Air Flow — Dampers allow for individual room airflow adjustment Picture Description: Construction Phase: Rough in Inspection: Rough in or Insulation No mechanical damper installed. Mechanical damper installed. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

2.2 No excessive coiled or looped flexible ductwork.11 C
Critical Point: Air Flow — Picture Description: Construction Phase: Inspection: Excessive length of duct installed causing sharp bends. Fan housing was oriented in the correct direction to allow proper exhaust duct installation. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

2.3 Flexible ducts in unconditioned space not installed in cavities smaller than outer duct diameter; in conditioned space not installed in cavities smaller than inner duct diameter Critical Point: The duct insulation is not compressed at all. Summary: No compression and no hard bends allow for maximum air flow. This takes planning to verify ducts are not forced to go into areas that will not fully accommodate ducting.

Critical Point: Air Flow — Picture Description: Construction Phase: Inspection:

2.3 Flexible ducts in unconditioned space not installed in cavities smaller than outer duct diameter; in conditioned space not installed in cavities smaller than inner duct diameter A Critical Point: Air Flow — The effective size of flex duct is limited when the chase is smaller than the duct Picture Description: Flex duct squashed by small chase – when installing ducts or cutting holes in chases, make sure the size is approximately the diameter of the duct. Otherwise the duct will not deliver the amount of the air the system was designed for. The good picture shows a chase where the ducts have been properly installed in a chase. The holes were cut to the right size and were sealed in place. Construction Phase: Rough in Inspection: Rough in or Insulation Duct is compressed. Framing allowed ductwork to be properly installed without compression. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

2.3 A Recessed can light is compressing ductwork.
Flexible ducts in unconditioned space not installed in cavities smaller than outer duct diameter; in conditioned space not installed in cavities smaller than inner duct diameter A Critical Point: Air Flow — Crushed and folded duct will limit airflow. This resulted from poor pre installation planning Picture Description: Recessed light in cavity is causing the duct to be crushed. Folded over also will limit any remaining airflow. The good picture shows ducts installed between floors, but with proper planning so ducts are not compromised by other trades. Construction Phase: Rough in Inspection: Rough in or Insulation Recessed can light is compressing ductwork. Ducts properly installed without compression and appropriately supported. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

2.3 Flexible ducts in unconditioned space not installed in cavities smaller than outer duct diameter; in conditioned space not installed in cavities smaller than inner duct diameter A Critical Point: Air Flow — Air flow can be limited to individual rooms by kinked or crushed ducts. Overall ESP is increased too limiting overall fan flow. Trade coordination is a must Picture Description: Duct partially crushed by PVC pipe. It is important for all of the sub contractors to coordinate where everything is going to prevent problems like this. The good picture shows ducts installed in the attic without anything compromising the ducts. Construction Phase: Rough In Inspection: Rough In or insulation Duct is compressed. Ducts properly installed without compression and appropriately supported. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

2.4 Flexible ducts supported at intervals as recommended by mfr. but at a distance ≤ 5 ft. Critical Point: Flexible ducts should be supported by some method (nylon straps, wire, bottom chord of open web truss, etc.) at least every 48”. The ducts should not bend or turn sharper than 90 degrees at any section in the “run.” Summary: Every bend and curve in a flex duct restricts air movement and decreases air flow velocity. Regular support and gentle bends allow ducts to achieve manufacturer specified performance.

2.4 Flexible ducts supported at intervals as recommended by mfr. but at a distance ≤ 5 ft. A Critical Point: Air Flow — These ducts are held in place with nylon straps that do not constrict the ducts. Picture Description: The bad picture shows the duct is not well supported because there is a dip in the duct. The good picture shows properly installed supports for ducts. These ducts will remain exactly where they are for a long time. Also this run is as straight as possible, maximizing air flow and velocity. In addition, the duct insulation is not compressed. Construction Phase: Rough in Inspection: Rough in or insulation . Duct sagging because supports not installed at regular intervals. Ducts well supported. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

2.4 Flexible ducts supported at intervals as recommended by mfr. but at a distance ≤ 5 ft. C Critical Point: Air Flow — Air flow can be limited to individual rooms by kinked or crushed ducts. Overall ESP is increased too limiting overall fan flow Picture Description: Overly tight metal strap crimping flex duct. The metal may cut the external liner. The good picture shows the duct straps installed at the proper spacing and without compressing the insulation too much. Construction Phase: Rough in Inspection: Rough in or insulation Metal strap is too small and is compressing duct. Ducts well supported. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

2.4 Flexible ducts supported at intervals as recommended by mfr. but at a distance ≤ 5 ft. C Critical Point: Air Flow — The duct is supported at each truss and has no bends greater than 90 degrees. Picture Description: Air flow is minimally restricted to allow for maximum efficiency. Construction Phase: Rough in Inspection: Rough in or insulation Straps are spaced too far apart causing the straps to compress the duct under its own weight. Ducts well supported by framing and straps as needed. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

2.4 Flexible ducts supported at intervals as recommended by mfr. but at a distance ≤ 5 ft. C Critical Point: Air Flow — Air flow can be limited to individual rooms by kinked or crushed ducts. Overall ESP is increased too limiting overall fan flow Picture Description: Duct is partially crushed by support, Insulation Is compressed. Perfect install on right. Construction Phase: Rough in Inspection: Rough in or insulation Metal strap is too small and is compressing duct. Ducts well supported. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

2.5 Building cavities not used as supply or return ducts unless they meet items 3.2, 3.3, 4.1, and 4.2 of this checklist. Critical Point: Summary: From Sam:Raters need an upfront discussion with builders so they are clear that building cavities cannot be used as ducts without substantial verification of insulation and air-tightness. Where builders still want to use pan ducts, they need to understand this is a significant quality assurance challenge.

2.5 Building cavities not used as supply or return ducts unless they meet items 3.2, 3.3, 4.1, and 4.2 of this checklist. B Critical Point: Air Flow, Air Quality, Heat Flow — Building Cavities are very hard to seal tight Picture Description: Building cavities used to transport air are very hard to make tight. Its best to use real ducting. The picture on the left shows a return in an existing home where the building cavity is used for the duct and it is not sealed. This return will pull air from wherever there is the least resistance which might not necessarily be from in the house. It could be from the attic. In addition, there is no insulation so there will be a lot of heat loss from the duct system. The good picture shows the cavity with duct insulation installed. This duct insulation must meet the standards (at least R-6) Construction Phase: Rough in or final Inspection: Rough in or final Cavity used for return is not insulated and is not air sealed, which will pull in air from outside. Cavity used for duct has been lined with rigid insulation and is ready to be air sealed. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

2.5 Building cavities not used as supply or return ducts unless they meet items 3.2, 3.3, 4.1, and 4.2 of this checklist. C Critical Point: Air Flow — Picture Description: Construction Phase: Inspection: BAD PIC OF INSULATION INSTALLED WITHOUT AIR BARRIER IN BUILDING CAVITY USED AS A DUCT GOOD PIC OF RIGID AIR BARRIER INSTALLED IN BUILDING CAVITY USED AS A DUCT HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

2.5 Building cavities not used as supply or return ducts unless they meet items 3.2, 3.3, 4.1, and 4.2 of this checklist. D Critical Point: Air Flow, Heat Flow, Air Quality — Under cabinet toe kick supply problem. Picture Description: Cavity used to transport air. Poor air sealing. Duct would be easier and tigther The duct on the right shows air sealing. This is important to prevent heat loss and infiltration of outside air. Construction Phase: Rough in or final Inspection: Final Cavity was not air sealed. Cavity has been air sealed with mastic. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

2.6 HVAC ducts, cavities used as ducts, and combustion inlets and outlets may pass perpendicularly through exterior walls but shall not be run within exterior walls unless at least R-6 continuous insulation is provided on exterior side of the cavity, along with an interior and exterior air barrier where required by the Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist. Critical Point: Summary: From Sam: Raters need an upfront discussion with builders locating ducts in exterior walls that R-6 insulation must be provided between the duct and exterior sheathing.

2.6 HVAC ducts, cavities used as ducts, and combustion inlets and outlets may pass perpendicularly through exterior walls but shall not be run within exterior walls unless at least R-6 continuous insulation is provided on exterior side of the cavity, along with an interior and exterior air barrier where required by the Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist. A Critical Point: Ducts in exterior walls must insulation on exterior side to minimize heat loss Picture Description: I cant figure out this picture Construction Phase: Rough in Inspection: Rough in or insulation Inadequate amount of insulation installed with compression, misalignment, and voids. GOOD PIC OF PROPERLY INSTALLED INSULATION IN BUILDING CAVITY USED AS A DUCT HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

2.6 HVAC ducts, cavities used as ducts, and combustion inlets and outlets may pass perpendicularly through exterior walls but shall not be run within exterior walls unless at least R-6 continuous insulation is provided on exterior side of the cavity, along with an interior and exterior air barrier where required by the Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist. B Critical Point: Air Flow — Picture Description: Construction Phase: Inspection: BAD PIC OF INSULATION INSTALLED WITHOUT AIR BARRIER IN BUILDING CAVITY USED AS A DUCT GOOD PIC OF RIGID AIR BARRIER INSTALLED IN BUILDING CAVITY USED AS A DUCT HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

2.6 C No insulation installed in cavity and not air sealed. .
HVAC ducts, cavities used as ducts, and combustion inlets and outlets may pass perpendicularly through exterior walls but shall not be run within exterior walls unless at least R-6 continuous insulation is provided on exterior side of the cavity, along with an interior and exterior air barrier where required by the Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist. C Critical Point: Air Flow, Heat Flow, Air Quality Picture Description: Duct tight to exterior wall sheathing and won’t allow for r-6 insulation behind it. In addition, there is no duct sealing to prevent leakage in the cavity. Ducts in exterior walls must have insulation on exterior side to minimize heat loss Construction Phase: Rough in Inspection: Rough in or Insulation No insulation installed in cavity and not air sealed. . GOOD PIC OF PROPERLY SEALED BUILDING CAVITY USED AS A DUCT HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

2.7 Quantity & location of supply and return duct terminals match contractor balancing report. Critical Point: If a living space without a dedicated return can be closed off from the main body of the house (as by a door, etc.), an alternate return pathway must be provided. Summary: Without an adequate return path, rooms can become pressurized which will depressurize the rest of the house and cause the HVAC system to draw make-up air from other less desirable sources.

2.8 Bedrooms pressure-balanced using any combination of transfer grills, jump ducts, dedicated return ducts, and/or undercut doors to either: a) provide 1 sq. in. of free area opening per 1 CFM of supply air, as reported on the contractor-provided balancing report; or Critical Point: If a living space without a dedicated return can be closed off from the main body of the house (as by a door, etc.), an alternate return pathway must be provided. Summary: Without an adequate return path, rooms can become pressurized which will depressurize the rest of the house and cause the HVAC system to draw make-up air from other less desirable sources.

Critical Point: Air Flow — Picture Description: Construction Phase: Inspection: Footnotes: 11. For HVAC system with multi-speed fans, the highest design fan speed shall be used when verifying this requirement.

2.8a Bedroom pressure-balanced by providing 1 sq. in. of free area opening per 1CFM of supply air, as reported on the contractor-provided balancing report A Critical Point: Air Flow Picture Description: When the door is closed, the room will become pressurized. The good picture shows a jumper duct in between a bedroom and the living space. The duct needs to be sized based on the amount of supply air entering the room. Construction Phase: Rough in Inspection: Rough in or insulation GOOD PIC OF NO/UNDERSIZED GRILL OR DUCTS INSTALLED TO PRESSURE BALANCE ROOM Grill and duct size based on calculated requirements for net free area. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

2.8a B Transfer grill not sealed. Transfer grill sealed with mastic.
Bedroom pressure-balanced by providing 1 sq. in. of free area opening per 1CFM of supply air, as reported on the contractor-provided balancing report B Critical Point: Air Flow Summary: The bad picture shows a transfer grille that might be sized right, but it isn’t sealed to the framing, so air can leak into the framing. The good picture shows a transfer grille installed and sealed. This will keep the bedrooms from getting to pressurized. A transfer grill is installed at the top of this door. When using pass through grills, it is best to install the hall side one low on the wall, and the room side one high on the walls to avoid possible blockage by furniture. Construction Phase: Rough in Inspection: Final Transfer grill not sealed. Transfer grill sealed with mastic.

2.8a C Duct to boot connection of jump duct not fastened and sealed.
Bedroom pressure-balanced by providing 1 sq. in. of free area opening per 1CFM of supply air, as reported on the contractor-provided balancing report C Critical Point: Air Flow, Heat Flow Summary: When the door is closed, the jumper duct will provide a free flowing return air pathway. The bad picture shows the duct not sealed. This could provide a path for air and heat loss. The good picture shows a duct that is properly sealed. Jumper ducts are like any other duct in the system – they need to be properly sealed. Construction Phase: Rough in Inspection: rough in through final Duct to boot connection of jump duct not fastened and sealed. Duct to boot connection of jump duct is properly sealed with mastic. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

2.8a Bedroom pressure-balanced by providing 1 sq. in. of free area opening per 1CFM of supply air, as reported on the contractor-provided balancing report D Critical Point: Air Flow — This might be an option, but the door can only be cut so much. Picture Description: This is not a requirement, but is a good recommendation to make pressure balancing easier. The bad picture shows a door that isn’t undercut. If the bedroom is too highly pressurized, the air will filter through the carpet when the door is closed. A dirt line will appear where the door is. The good picture shows a properly undercut door. The ¾” should be from the top of the finished floor. Construction Phase: Final Inspection: Final Door is not undercut therefore not contributing to pressure balancing. Door has been undercut to allow for specified amount of air flow therefore contributing to pressure balancing. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

2.8 Bedrooms pressure-balanced using any combination of transfer grills, jump ducts, dedicated return ducts, and/or undercut doors to either: b) achieve a Rater-measured pressure differential ≤ 3 Pa (0.012 in. w.c.) with respect to the main body of the house when bedroom doors are closed and the air handler is operating.12,13 Critical Point: Summary:

Critical Point: Air Flow — Picture Description: Construction Phase: Inspection: Footnotes: 11. For HVAC system with multi-speed fans, the highest design fan speed shall be used when verifying this requirement.

2.8b A Return has not been sealed.
Bedrooms achieve a Rater-measured pressure differential ≤ 3 Pa (0.012 in. w.c.) with respect to the main body of the house when bedroom doors are closed and the air handler is operating.12,13 A Critical Point: Air Flow — Picture Description: Construction Phase: Inspection: Return has not been sealed. Return duct has been properly sealed with mastic. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

2.8b B Return box has not been sealed.
Bedrooms achieve a Rater-measured pressure differential ≤ 3 Pa (0.012 in. w.c.) with respect to the main body of the house when bedroom doors are closed and the air handler is operating.12,13 B Critical Point: Heat Flow, Moisture flow — Return air is drawn from conditioned space, not unconditioned space. Picture Description: The bad picture shows a return installed in a bedroom, but there is no insulation around the duct. This could lead to heat loss in this area and possibly create condensation issues. The good picture shows a properly insulated return box. Construction Phase: Rough in Inspection: Rough in or insulation Return box has not been sealed. Return box has been properly sealed with mastic. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

SECTION 3. DUCT INSULATION
SECTION 3. DUCT INSULATION : Applies to All Heating, Cooling, Supply Ventilation, and Pressure Balancing Ducts 14 3.1 All connections to trunk ducts in unconditioned space are insulated. 3.2 Prescriptive Path: Supply ducts in unconditioned attic have insulation > R-8. Performance Path: Supply ducts in unconditioned attic have insulation > R All other supply ducts and all return ducts in unconditioned space have insulation > R-6. Critical Point: Summary:

3.1 All connections to trunk ducts in unconditioned space are insulated. Critical Point: Summary:

3.1 All connections to trunk ducts in unconditioned space are insulated. A Critical Point: Air Flow, Heat Flow Picture Description: The bad picture shows a duct that is not sealed to the take off. Eventually the duct could fall off because it is only held in place by a metal strap. This sealing should be done before insulation is installed around the duct. The good picture shows sealing around the inner liner complete. Construction Phase: Rough in Inspection: Rough in Trunk to duct connections are only mechanically fastened and not sealed. Trunk to duct connections are properly insulated and have been sealed with mastic. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

3.1 All connections to trunk ducts in unconditioned space are insulated. A Critical Point: Air Flow, Heat Flow Picture Description: The bad picture shows older metal duct that has only been taped. The tape is now starting to separate from the ducts, causing them to leak conditioned air – creating higher energy bills and possible comfort complaints. The good picture shows fiberglass tape and mastic used to seal the ducts. This sealing method will last much longer than tape alone and will provide a better seal. Construction Phase: Rough in Inspection: Rough in Ductwork is uninsulated and not sealed at seams. Seams are being properly sealed with mastic and mesh tape. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

3.1 All connections to trunk ducts in unconditioned space are insulated. B Critical Point: Heat Flow, Moisture flow Picture Description: The bad picture shows a supply installed in a bedroom, but there is no insulation around the duct. This could lead to heat loss in this area and possibly create condensation issues. The good picture shows a properly insulated supply boot. Construction Phase: Rough in Inspection: Rough in or insulation Boot is uninsulated. Duct insulation is installed over boot. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

3.1 All connections to trunk ducts in unconditioned space are insulated. C Critical Point: Air Flow, Heat Flow Picture Description: The good picture shows ducts sealed with mastic. There will be minimal leakage and potential for the insulation to separate from the connection. Construction Phase: Rough-in Inspection: Insulation does not cover boot and is not sealed. Boot has been covered with insulation and sealed with mastic. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

3.2 Prescriptive Path: Supply ducts in unconditioned attic have insulation ≥ R-8. Performance Path: Supply ducts in unconditioned attic have insulation ≥ R-6. Critical Point: Any HVAC component located outside of the conditioned space or in an exterior wall cavity must be insulated and the insulation must have an installed value of R-6 or more. Components included all ducts, plenums, supply/return boots, etc. For flex ducts, the insulation shall be fastened to the collar/boot with nylon straps (like the inner liner). Summary: Insulating HVAC components protects the air flowing inside them from the temperature extremes of unconditioned areas. Fastening the insulation to the boot/collar prevents the insulation from pulling away from the boot/collar.

3.2-3 A Duct is located in unconditioned space and is not insulated.
Prescriptive Path: Supply ducts in unconditioned attic have insulation ≥ R-8. Performance Path: Supply ducts in unconditioned attic have insulation ≥ R-6. A Critical Point: Air Flow, Heat Flow Picture Description: Construction Phase: Inspection: Duct is located in unconditioned space and is not insulated. Duct is located in unconditioned space and is properly insulated. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

3.2-3 Prescriptive Path: Supply ducts in unconditioned attic have insulation ≥ R-8. Performance Path: Supply ducts in unconditioned attic have insulation ≥ R-6. B Critical Point: Air Flow, Heat Flow. Picture Description: In the bad picture, the insulation is compressed and will provide some heat loss. The good picture shows supports installed at the proper distance. Air flow is minimally restricted to allow for maximum efficiency. Construction Phase: Rough in Inspection: Rough in or insulation Duct is insulated but strapping is compressing the insulation therefore reducing the R-value. Ducts are properly insulated and supported without compressing the insulation. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

SECTION 4. DUCT LEAKAGE 4.1 Total Rater-measured duct leakage < 6 CFM25 per 100 sq. ft. of conditioned floor area15, Rater -measured duct leakage to outdoors < 4 CFM25 per 100 sq. ft. of conditioned floor area.15, 16, Duct boots sealed to floor, wall, or ceiling using caulk, foam, mastic tape, or mastic paste. Critical Point: Summary:

SECTION 4. DUCT LEAKAGE 4.1 Total Rater-measured duct leakage ≤ 6 CFM25 per 100 sq. ft. of conditioned floor area15, Rater -measured duct leakage to outdoors ≤ 4 CFM25 per 100 sq. ft. of conditioned floor area.15, 16, 17 Critical Point: Summary:

Critical Point: Summary: Footnotes: 13. Duct leakage shall be determined and documented by a Rater using a RESNET-approved testing protocol only after all components of the system have been installed (e.g., air handler and register grilles). Leakage limits shall be assessed on a per-system, rather than per-home, basis. Testing of duct leakage to the outside can be waived if all ducts & air handling equipment are located within the home’s air and thermal barriers AND envelope leakage has been tested to be less than or equal to half of the prescriptive path infiltration limit for the Climate Zone where the home is to be built. 14. For all homes that have less than 1,200 sq. ft. of conditioned floor area (CFA), total measured duct leakage shall be ≤ 8 CFM25 per 100 sq. ft. of CFA and measured duct leakage to outdoors shall be ≤ 5 CFM25 per 100 sq. ft. of CFA. 15. If total duct leakage is ≤ 4 CFM25 per 100 sq. ft. of conditioned floor area, or ≤ 5 CFM25 per 100 sq. ft. of conditioned floor area for homes that have less than 1,200 sq. ft. of conditioned floor area, then leakage to outdoors need not be tested.

4.1-2 A Connection in place but not sealed.
Total Rater-measured duct leakage ≤ 6 CFM25 per 100 sq. ft. of conditioned floor area15,16 Rater -measured duct leakage to outdoors ≤ 4 CFM25 per 100 sq. ft. of conditioned floor area.15, 16, 17 A Critical Point: Air Flow, Heat Flow Picture Description: These recommendations will aid the HVAC contractor in meeting the targets for duct leakage. It will be difficult to meet the requirements if these steps aren’t followed. The bad picture shows a duct that is not sealed to the take off. Eventually the duct could fall off because it is only held in place by a metal strap. This sealing should be done before insulation is installed around the duct. The good picture shows sealing around the inner liner complete. Construction Phase: Rough in Inspection: Rough in Connection in place but not sealed. Mechanically fastened and sealed. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

4.1-2 B Insulation does not cover boot and is not sealed.
Total Rater-measured duct leakage ≤ 6 CFM25 per 100 sq. ft. of conditioned floor area15,16 Rater -measured duct leakage to outdoors ≤ 4 CFM25 per 100 sq. ft. of conditioned floor area.15, 16, 17 B Critical Point: Heat Flow, Moisture flow Picture Description: The bad picture shows a supply installed in a bedroom, but there is no insulation around the duct. This could lead to heat loss in this area and possibly create condensation issues. The good picture shows a properly insulated supply boot. Construction Phase: Rough in Inspection: Rough in or insulation Insulation does not cover boot and is not sealed. Duct insulation is installed over boot. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

4.1-2 C Insulation does not cover boot and is not sealed.
Total Rater-measured duct leakage ≤ 6 CFM25 per 100 sq. ft. of conditioned floor area15,16 Rater -measured duct leakage to outdoors ≤ 4 CFM25 per 100 sq. ft. of conditioned floor area.15, 16, 17 C Critical Point: Air Flow, Heat Flow Picture Description: The good picture shows ducts sealed with mastic. There will be minimal leakage and potential for the insulation to separate from the connection. Construction Phase: Rough-in Inspection: Insulation does not cover boot and is not sealed. Boot has been covered with insulation and sealed with mastic. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

SECTION 4. DUCT LEAKAGE 4.3 Duct boots sealed to floor, wall, or ceiling using caulk, foam, mastic tape, or mastic paste. Critical Point: Summary:

4.3 Duct boots sealed to floor, wall, or ceiling using caulk, foam, mastic tape, or mastic paste. A Critical Point: Air Flow, Heat Flow Picture Description: The bad picture shows a boot not sealed to the floor. Conditioned air could leak into the unconditioned space creating energy loss and comfort complaints. The good picture shows a duct sealed to the floor with mastic. Caulk, foam or mastic shall be used to seal penetrations to exterior or to unconditioned space (i.e. chases/shafts that terminate in the attic). Penetrations include any ducts, pipes, wires, refrigerant or condensate lines, etc. It is the responsibility of whoever created the hole to verify it is sealable. You make the hole, you own the hole. Caulk, foam or mastic should be used because other materials commonly used, such as fiberglass insulation, are not effective at stopping air flow. Construction Phase: Insulation Inspection: Insulation Boot to floor connection not sealed. Boot to floor connection sealed. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

4.3 Duct boots sealed to floor, wall, or ceiling using caulk, foam, mastic tape, or mastic paste. A Critical Point: Air Flow, Heat Flow Picture Description: The bad picture shows a boot installed in the ceiling and it is not sealed to the drywall. This gap can provide a lot of leakage. Construction Phase: Final for attics Inspection: Final for attics Boot to drywall connection not sealed. Boot to drywall connection sealed.

SECTION 5. WHOLE-BUILDING DELIVERED VENTILATION
5.1 Rater-measured ventilation rate is within % of HVAC contractor design value (2.11).18 Critical Point: Summary:

Critical Point: Summary: Footnotes: 16. The whole-house ventilation air flow and local exhaust air flows shall be measured by the Rater using a flow hood, flow grid, anemometer (in accordance with AABC, NEBB or ASHRAE procedures), or substantially equivalent method.

5.1 Rater-measured ventilation rate is within % of HVAC contractor design value (2.11).18 A Critical Point: Air Flow — Picture Description: Construction Phase: Inspection: Ventilation tied into the return without a mechanical damper. Ventilation tied into the return with a mechanical damper.

5.1 Rater-measured ventilation rate is within % of HVAC contractor design value (2.11).18 B Critical Point: Air Flow — Picture Description: Construction Phase: Inspection: Exhaust fan installed but in wrong direction causing excessive bend and duct is uninsulated. In line exhaust ventilation installed. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

5.1 Rater-measured ventilation rate is within % of HVAC contractor design value (2.11).18 C Critical Point: Air Flow, Heat Flow, Air Quality Picture Description: The good picture shows an ERV installed. Not only will it provide the necessary ventilation, but it will reduce energy loss by recovering energy from the air exiting the system. Construction Phase: Rough-in Inspection: Properly installed ERV/HRV. . Properly installed ERV/HRV. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

SECTION 6. CONTROLS 6.1 Air flow is produced when central HVAC fan is energized (set thermostat to “fan”). 6.2 Cool air flow is produced when the cooling cycle is energized (set thermostat to “cool”).19, Heated air flow is produced when the heating cycle is energized (set thermostat to “heat”) Continuously-operating ventilation & exhaust fans include readily accessible override controls. Critical Point: Summary:

SECTION 6. VENTILATION CONTROLS
6.5 Function of ventilation controls is obvious (e.g., bathroom exhaust fan) or, if not, controls have been labeled. Critical Point: Summary:

6.1 Air flow is produced when central HVAC fan is energized (set thermostat to “fan”). 6.2 Cool air flow is produced when the cooling cycle is energized (set thermostat to “cool”).19, Heated air flow is produced when the heating cycle is energized (set thermostat to “heat”).19 Critical Point: Summary:

Critical Point: Air Flow — Picture Description: Construction Phase: Inspection: Footnotes: 17. In cases where the condenser unit is installed after the time of inspection by the Rater, the Rater is exempt from verifying item 6.2 when the condenser is for an AC unit and also item 6.3 when the condenser is for a heat pump unit.

6.4 Continuously-operating ventilation & exhaust fans include readily accessible override controls. Critical Point: Summary:

6.4 Continuously-operating ventilation & exhaust fans include readily accessible override controls. A Critical Point: Air Flow — Picture Description: Construction Phase: Inspection: BAD PIC OF EQUIPMENT INSTALLED WITHOUT OVERRIDE CONTROL OPTIONS? OR PIC OF EQUIPMENT INSTALLED WITHOUT IT GOOD PIC OF EQUIPMENT INSTALLED WITH OVERRIDE CONTROL OPTIONS

6.4 Continuously-operating ventilation & exhaust fans include readily accessible override controls. B Critical Point: Air Quality Picture Description: The good picture shows all of the controls located in one accessible location. The homeowner will be able to operate the system from one location. Construction Phase: Final Inspection: Final BAD PIC OF BAD LOCATION FOR OVERRIDE EQUIP. Override control switches centrally located near thermostat for ease of access.

6.5 Function of ventilation controls is obvious (e.g., bathroom exhaust fan) or, if not, controls have been labeled. Critical Point: Summary:

6.5 A Ventilation is not labeled.
Function of ventilation controls is obvious (e.g., bathroom exhaust fan) or, if not, controls have been labeled. A Critical Point: Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows switches, but no understanding about which switch is for what. It’s confusing to the homeowner. The good picture distinguishes between the exhaust fan and the light switch, making it easier for the homeowner to operate. Clear control communication is critical to homeowner understanding of the ventilation system. Construction Phase: Final Inspection: Final Ventilation is not labeled. Manufacturer labeled ventilation switch.

6.5 A Controls are not labeled. Manufacturer labeled controls.
Function of ventilation controls is obvious (e.g., bathroom exhaust fan) or, if not, controls have been labeled. A Critical Point: Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows switches, but no understanding about which switch is for what. It’s confusing to the homeowner. The good picture distinguishes between the exhaust fan and the light switch, making it easier for the homeowner to operate. Clear control communication is critical to homeowner understanding of the ventilation system. Construction Phase: Final Inspection: Final Controls are not labeled. Manufacturer labeled controls.

6.5 B Ventilation is not labeled.
Function of ventilation controls is obvious (e.g., bathroom exhaust fan) or, if not, controls have been labeled. B Critical Point: Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows switches, but no understanding about which switch is for what. It’s confusing to the homeowner. The good picture shows another way to label a switch if the manufacturer doesn’t do it automatically, making it easier for the homeowner to operate. Clear control communication is critical to homeowner understanding of the ventilation system. Construction Phase: Final Inspection: Final Ventilation is not labeled. Installer permanently labeled ventilation switch.

SECTION 7. AIR INLETS & VENTILATION SOURCE
7.1 All ventilation air inlets located ≥ 10 ft. of stretched-string distance from known contamination sources such as stack, vent, exhaust hood, or vehicle exhaust. Exception: ventilation air inlets in the wall ≥ 3 ft. from dryer exhausts and contamination sources exiting through the roof Ventilation air inlets ≥ 2 ft. above grade or roof deck in Climate Zones 1-3 or ≥ 4 ft. above grade or roof deck in Climate Zones 4-8 and not obstructed by snow, plantings, condensing units or other material at time of inspection.22 Critical Point: Summary:

7.3 Ventilation air inlets provided with rodent / insect screen with ≤ 0.5 inch mesh Ventilation air comes directly from outdoors and not from adjacent dwelling units, garages, crawlspaces, or attics. Critical Point: Summary:

All ventilation air inlets located ≥10 ft. of stretched-string distance from known contamination sources such as stack, vent, exhaust hood, or vehicle exhaust. Exception: ventilation air inlets in the wall ≥ 3 ft. from dryer exhausts and contamination sources exiting through the roof. 21 Critical Point: Summary:

Critical Point: Summary: Footnotes: 18. The outlet and inlet of balanced ventilation systems shall meet these spacing requirements unless manufacturer instructions indicate that a smaller distance may be used. However, if this occurs the manufacturer's instructions shall be collected for documentation purposes.

7.1 B Ventilation air inlet is too close to exhaust outlet.
All ventilation air inlets located ≥10 ft. of stretched-string distance from known contamination sources such as stack, vent, exhaust hood, or vehicle exhaust. Exception: ventilation air inlets in the wall ≥ 3 ft. from dryer exhausts and contamination sources exiting through the roof. 21 B Critical Point: Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows an air inlet located too close to an exhaust outlet. The air that will be added to the system is not the best quality. There needs to be coordination with the HVAC contractor and any other trades installing exhaust equipment such as electricians and bath fans. Construction Phase: Rough-in Inspection: Ventilation air inlet is too close to exhaust outlet. Ventilation inlet is greater than 10 ft. from known contamination source. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

7.1 B Ventilation air inlet is too close to exhaust outlet.
All ventilation air inlets located ≥10 ft. of stretched-string distance from known contamination sources such as stack, vent, exhaust hood, or vehicle exhaust. Exception: ventilation air inlets in the wall ≥ 3 ft. from dryer exhausts and contamination sources exiting through the roof. 21 B Critical Point: Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows an air inlet located too close to an exhaust outlet. The air that will be added to the system is not the best quality. There needs to be coordination with the HVAC contractor and any other trades installing exhaust equipment such as electricians and bath fans. The good picture shows a ventilation intake that is located far away from anything else. There won’t be any exhaust located close by to contaminate the ventilation air. Construction Phase: Rough-in Inspection: Ventilation air inlet is too close to exhaust outlet. Ventilation inlet is greater than 10 ft. from known contamination source. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

7.1 All ventilation air inlets located ≥10 ft. of stretched-string distance from known contamination sources such as stack, vent, exhaust hood, or vehicle exhaust. Exception: ventilation air inlets in the wall ≥ 3 ft. from dryer exhausts and contamination sources exiting through the roof. 21 B Critical Point: Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows an air inlet located too close to an exhaust outlet. The air that will be added to the system is not the best quality. There needs to be coordination with the HVAC contractor and any other trades installing exhaust equipment such as electricians and bath fans. The good picture shows a ventilation intake that is located far away from anything else. There won’t be any exhaust located close by to contaminate the ventilation air. Construction Phase: Rough-in Inspection: Ventilation inlet is too close to exhaust outlets and does not extend at least 2 ft. above the roof deck. Ventilation inlet is not near any exhaust outlets/contamination sources and is at least 2 ft. above the roof deck. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

7.2 Ventilation air inlets ≥ 2 ft. above grade or roof deck in Climate Zones 1-3 or ≥ 4 ft. above grade or roof deck in Climate Zones 4-8 and not obstructed by snow, plantings, condensing units or other material at time of inspection.22 Critical Point: Fresh air intakes must be kept safely away from potential pollution sources. Summary: This helps verify that the fresh air is indeed fresh and not contaminated by outdoor pollutants such as pollen and undesirable odors.

Critical Point: Summary:

7.2 Ventilation air inlets ≥ 2 ft. above grade or roof deck in Climate Zones 1-3 or ≥ 4 ft. above grade or roof deck in Climate Zones 4-8 and not obstructed by snow, plantings, condensing units or other material at time of inspection.22 B Critical Point: Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows an air inlet that is not raised the correct height off the roof. The air that will be added to the system is not the best quality and will be very hot air during the summer and possibly blocked by snow in the winter. Construction Phase: Rough-in Inspection: Ventilation inlet does not terminate high enough above the roof deck. Ventilation inlet is not near any exhaust outlets/contamination sources and is at least 2 ft. above the roof deck. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

7.2 Ventilation air inlets ≥ 2 ft. above grade or roof deck in Climate Zones 1-3 or ≥ 4 ft. above grade or roof deck in Climate Zones 4-8 and not obstructed by snow, plantings, condensing units or other material at time of inspection. 22 C Critical Point: Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows an air inlet that is not raised the correct height off of the ground. The air that will be added to the system is not the best quality could possibly be blocked by snow in the winter. The good picture shows an inlet far enough above the ground that there won’t be problems from plants or snow. Construction Phase: Rough-in Inspection: Ventilation inlet is too close to the ground and is being blocked by the grass. Ventilation inlet is appropriately located above grade. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

7.3 Ventilation air inlets provided with rodent / insect screen with ≤ 0.5 inch mesh.23 Critical Point: Summary:

Critical Point: Summary: Footnotes: 19. Without proper maintenance, ventilation air inlet screens often become filled with debris. Therefore, EPA recommends, but does not require, that these ventilation air inlets be located so as to facilitate access and regular service by the owner.

7.3 Ventilation air inlets provided with rodent / insect screen with ≤ 0.5 inch mesh.23 A Critical Point: Air Quality Picture Description: The good picture shows a screen on the outside air intake. This will prevent insects and large particles from entering the HVAC system. Construction Phase: Final Inspection: Mesh screen is spaced wider than 0.5" allowing insects to enter. Mesh screen is correctly installed and gaps are less than 0.5". HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

7.3 Ventilation air inlets provided with rodent / insect screen with ≤ 0.5 inch mesh.23 A Critical Point: Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows the screen with holes larger than ½” which means larger particles might get pulled into the HVAC system. The good picture shows a screen on the outside air intake. This will prevent insects and large particles from entering the HVAC system. Construction Phase: Final Inspection: Mesh screen is spaced wider than 0.5" allowing insects to enter. Mesh screen is correctly installed and gaps are smaller less than 0.5". HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

7.3 Ventilation air inlets provided with rodent / insect screen with ≤ 0.5 inch mesh.23 B Critical Point: Air Quality Picture Description: Construction Phase: Final Inspection: Air inlet is not convenient for cleaning and located next to exhaust outlets. Air inlet is located in a convenient place for homeowner to clean. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

7.4 Ventilation air comes directly from outdoors and not from adjacent dwelling units, garages, crawlspaces, or attics. Critical Point: Summary:

7.4 Ventilation air comes directly from outdoors and not from adjacent dwelling units, garages, crawlspaces, or attics. A Critical Point: Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows two ducts trying to go to the exterior, but the they are not properly installed. This could lead to the exhaust air not being able exit the system. In addition, if the air has any moisture, it could get trapped in this area and potentially cause moisture problems in the roof assembly. The good picture shows an exhaust outlet that has a termination that will allow for air to exit properly. Construction Phase: Rough-in Inspection: Exhaust terminates inside of soffit and was just covered. Exhaust terminates to the outside away from air inlets. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

7.4 Ventilation air comes directly from outdoors and not from adjacent dwelling units, garages, crawlspaces, or attics. B Critical Point: Air Flow, Heat Flow, Air Quality Picture Description: These recommendations will aid the HVAC contractor in meeting the targets for duct leakage. It will be difficult to meet the requirements if these steps aren’t followed. In addition exhaust air could leak into the attic or back into the house. The bad picture shows a duct that is not sealed to the take off. Eventually the duct could fall off because it is only held in place by a metal strap. This sealing should be done before insulation is installed around the duct. The good picture shows sealing around the inner liner complete. Construction Phase: Rough in Inspection: Rough in Exhaust duct only mechanically fastened and not sealed. Kitchen exhaust properly installed and sealed with mastic. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

7.4 Ventilation air comes directly from outdoors and not from adjacent dwelling units, garages, crawlspaces, or attics. C / D Critical Point: Air Flow, Heat Flow. Picture Description: In the bad picture, the insulation is compressed and will provide some heat loss. The good picture shows supports installed at the proper distance. Air flow is minimally restricted to allow for maximum efficiency. Construction Phase: Rough in Inspection: Rough in or insulation Ventilation duct is compressed because supporting strap is too small. Ventilation air comes directly from outdoors and not from adjacent dwelling units, garages, crawlspaces, or attics. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

≥ 5 ACH, based on kitchen volume 27
SECTION 8. LOCAL MECHANICAL EXHAUST In each kitchen and bathroom, a system shall be installed that exhausts directly to the outdoors and meets one of the following Rater measured airflow standards: 18,24,25 Location Continuous Rate Intermittent Rate 26 8.1 Kitchen ≥ 5 ACH, based on kitchen volume 27 ≥ 100 CFM 28 8.2 Bathroom ≥ 20 CFM ≥ 50 CFM Critical Point: Testing kitchen fans is difficult. Summary:

SECTION 8. LOCAL MECHANICAL EXHAUST
8.3 If fans share common exhaust duct, back-draft dampers installed. 8.4 Common exhaust duct not shared by fans in separate dwellings Clothes dryers vented directly to outdoors, except for ventless dryers equipped with a condensate drain. Critical Point: Summary:

In each kitchen and bathroom, a system shall be installed that exhausts directly to the outdoors and meets one of the following Rater measured airflow standards: 18,24, Kitchen Continuous: ≥ 5 ACH, based on kitchen volume 27 Intermittent Rate 26 : ≥ 100 CFM 28 Critical Point: Summary:

Critical Point: Summary: Footnotes: 16. The whole-house ventilation air flow and local exhaust air flows shall be measured by the Rater using a flow hood, flow grid, anemometer (in accordance with AABC, NEBB or ASHRAE procedures), or substantially equivalent method. 20. Per ASHRAE , an exhaust system is one or more fans that remove air from the building, causing outdoor air to enter by ventilation inlets or normal leakage paths through the building envelope. Examples include bath exhaust fans, range hoods, and clothes dryers. 21. Per ASHRAE , a bathroom is any room containing a bathtub, shower, spa, or similar source of moisture. 22. An intermittent mechanical exhaust system, where provided, shall be designed to operate as needed by the occupant. Control devices shall not impede occupant control in intermittent systems. 23. Kitchen volume shall be determined by drawing the smallest possible rectangle on the floor plan that encompasses all cabinets, pantries, islands, and peninsulas and multiplying by the average ceiling height for this area. Cabinet volume shall be included in the kitchen volume calculation. 24. If the flow rate of the selected exhaust fan is less than 5 ACH, based on kitchen volume, then a vented range hood or appliance-range hood combination is required rather than a remote fan that is not integral to the range. Also, for intermittent kitchen exhaust fans that are integrated with microwaves, a rated air flow rate that is ≥ 200 CFM may be used in lieu of measuring the actual air flow rate.

8.1 In each kitchen and bathroom, a system shall be installed that exhausts directly to the outdoors and meets one of the following Rater measured airflow standards: 18,24,25 ≥ 5 ACH, based on kitchen volume 27 OR ≥ 100 CFM 28 A / B Critical Point: Air Flow, Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows a kitchen fan installed that doesn’t have a high enough rating to pull the required amount of air. Construction Phase: Final Inspection: CFM rating may not meet the performance specification once installed. Fan CFM rating is higher than the requirement increasing the likelihood that it will meet the performance level once installed. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

8.1 C Recirculating fan installed that does not exhaust to outside.
In each kitchen and bathroom, a system shall be installed that exhausts directly to the outdoors and meets one of the following Rater measured airflow standards: 18,24,25 ≥ 5 ACH, based on kitchen volume 27 OR ≥ 100 CFM 28 C Critical Point: Air Flow, Air Quality Picture Description: The good picture shows a termination that won’t have any problems exiting all of the air out of the fan. The fan is located directly on the other side of the wall. While not always possible, it is a good idea to put the oven on the exterior wall to make the exhaust duct as short as possible. Construction Phase: Planning, Rough-in Inspection: Rough-in Recirculating fan installed that does not exhaust to outside. Exhaust fan has terminates to the outside. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

8.1 In each kitchen and bathroom, a system shall be installed that exhausts directly to the outdoors and meets one of the following Rater measured airflow standards: 18,24,25 ≥ 5 ACH, based on kitchen volume 27 OR ≥ 100 CFM 28 D Critical Point: Air Flow, Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows a kitchen fan installed to exit to the exterior, but the duct is not sealed. Air could leak back into the house, creating unwanted odors. The good picture shows the duct installed and sealed during construction. Construction Phase: Rough-in, Final Inspection: Exhaust ductwork and penetration to the exterior have not been sealed. Exhaust ductwork and penetration to the exterior have been sealed with mastic.

In each kitchen and bathroom, a system shall be installed that exhausts directly to the outdoors and meets one of the following Rater measured airflow standards: 18,24, Bathroom Continuous: ≥ 20 CFM Intermittent Rate 26 : ≥ 50 CFM Critical Point: Summary:

Critical Point: Summary: Footnotes: 16. The whole-house ventilation air flow and local exhaust air flows shall be measured by the Rater using a flow hood, flow grid, anemometer (in accordance with AABC, NEBB or ASHRAE procedures), or substantially equivalent method. 20. Per ASHRAE , an exhaust system is one or more fans that remove air from the building, causing outdoor air to enter by ventilation inlets or normal leakage paths through the building envelope. Examples include bath exhaust fans, range hoods, and clothes dryers. 21. Per ASHRAE , a bathroom is any room containing a bathtub, shower, spa, or similar source of moisture. 22. An intermittent mechanical exhaust system, where provided, shall be designed to operate as needed by the occupant. Control devices shall not impede occupant control in intermittent systems.

8.2 In each kitchen and bathroom, a system shall be installed that exhausts directly to the outdoors and meets one of the following Rater measured airflow standards: 18,24,25 ≥ 20 CFM OR ≥ 50 CFM A / B Critical Point: Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows a fan that doesn’t meet the sone rating, meaning it might be too noisy, discouraging the homeowner from using it. The good picture shows a fan with the right sone rating. Construction Phase: Final Inspection: CFM rating may not meet the performance specification once installed. Fan CFM rating is higher than the requirement increasing the likelihood that it will meet the performance level once installed. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

8.2 In each kitchen and bathroom, a system shall be installed that exhausts directly to the outdoors and meets one of the following Rater measured airflow standards: 18,24,25 ≥ 20 CFM OR ≥ 50 CFM C Critical Point: Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows two ducts trying to go to the exterior, but the they are not properly installed. This could lead to the exhaust air not being able exit the system. In addition, if the air has any moisture, it could get trapped in this area and potentially cause moisture problems in the roof assembly. The good picture shows an exhaust outlet that has a termination that will allow for air to exit properly. Construction Phase: Rough-in Inspection: Two exhaust terminations, joined in a roughly cut hole restrictive hole and not air sealed. Exhaust has been properly installed, sealed, and terminates to outdoors. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

8.2 D Exhaust duct only mechanically fastened and not sealed.
In each kitchen and bathroom, a system shall be installed that exhausts directly to the outdoors and meets one of the following Rater measured airflow standards: 18,24,25 ≥ 20 CFM OR ≥ 50 CFM D Critical Point: Air Flow, Heat Flow, Air Quality Picture Description: These recommendations will aid the HVAC contractor in meeting the targets for duct leakage. It will be difficult to meet the requirements if these steps aren’t followed. In addition exhaust air could leak into the attic or back into the house. The bad picture shows a duct that is not sealed to the take off. Eventually the duct could fall off because it is only held in place by a metal strap. This sealing should be done before insulation is installed around the duct. The good picture shows sealing around the inner liner complete. Construction Phase: Rough in Inspection: Rough in Exhaust duct only mechanically fastened and not sealed. Exhaust duct has been mechanically fastened and sealed with mastic. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

8.3 If fans share common exhaust duct, back-draft dampers installed. 8.4 Common exhaust duct not shared by fans in separate dwellings.29 Critical Point: Summary:

Critical Point: Summary: Footnotes: 25. Exhaust outlets from more than one dwelling unit may be served by a single exhaust fan if the fan runs continuously or if each outlet has a back-draft damper to prevent cross-contamination when the fan is not running.

8.3-4 If fans share common exhaust duct, back-draft dampers installed AND Common exhaust duct not shared by fans in separate dwellings.29 A Critical Point: Air Flow, Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows a fan housing unit installed, but there is no back draft damper on it – allowing air to be pulled from it when another fan is running. Construction Phase: Final Inspection: Fan shares exhaust and does not have a back-draft damper installed. Fan shares exhaust and has a back-draft damper installed. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

8.3-4 If fans share common exhaust duct, back-draft dampers installed AND Common exhaust duct not shared by fans in separate dwellings.29 B Critical Point: Air Flow — Picture Description: Construction Phase: Inspection: Back-draft damper still has a piece of tape that prevented it from rattling during shipping. Packing tape has been removed and damper will be able to function properly once fan is installed. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

8.3-4 If fans share common exhaust duct, back-draft dampers installed AND Common exhaust duct not shared by fans in separate dwellings.29 C Critical Point: Air Flow, Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows two ducts trying to go to the exterior, but the they are not properly installed. This could lead to the exhaust air not being able exit the system. In addition, if the air has any moisture, it could get trapped in this area and potentially cause moisture problems in the roof assembly. Construction Phase: Rough-in Inspection: Fans from separate dwellings exhausted together without back-draft dampers and not sealed. Separate dwellings with their own separate exhaust terminations.

8.5 Clothes dryers vented directly to outdoors, except for ventless dryers equipped with a condensate drain. Critical Point: Summary:

8.5 Clothes dryers vented directly to outdoors, except for ventless dryers equipped with a condensate drain. A Critical Point: Moisture Flow, Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows a dryer exhaust that doesn’t terminate to the exterior. All of the hot, moist air will go directly into the band causing moisture problems and puts contaminated air into the house. The good picture shows a laundry room installed on the exterior of the house. This means the dryer vent will go directly to the outside. Construction Phase: Rough-in Inspection: Dryer vent is run vertical with a 90 degree bend and does not vent to the outside. Dryer vents directly to the outdoors. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

8.5 Clothes dryers vented directly to outdoors, except for ventless dryers equipped with a condensate drain. A Critical Point: Moisture Flow, Air Quality Picture Description: The good picture shows a dryer vent that goes directly to the outside. Construction Phase: Rough-in Inspection: Dryer exhaust line terminates in the crawlspace. Dryer vents directly to the outdoors. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

SECTION 9. VENTILATION & EXHAUST FAN RATINGS (EXEMPTIONS FOR HVAC AND REMOTE-MOUNTED FANS) 30
9.1 Intermittent supply & exhaust fans rated at ≤ 3 sones by mfr., unless rated flow ≥ 400 CFM 9.2 Continuous supply & exhaust fans rated at ≤ 1 sone by manufacturer. 9.3 Bathroom fans used as part of a whole-house mechanical ventilation system shall be ENERGY STAR qualified; unless rated flow rate ≥ 500 CFM. Critical Point: Summary:

Critical Point: Summary: Footnotes: 26. Fans exempted from this requirement include HVAC air handlers and remote-mounted fans (i.e., fans outside habitable spaces, bathrooms, toilets, and hallways and with ≥ 4 ft. ductwork between fan and intake grills). Per ASHRAE , habitable spaces are intended for continual human occupancy; such space generally includes areas used for living, sleeping, dining, and cooking but does not generally include bathrooms, toilets, hallways, storage areas, closets, or utility rooms.

9.1-3 Intermittent supply & exhaust fans rated at ≤ 3 sones by mfr., unless rated flow ≥ 400 CFM Critical Point: Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows a fan that doesn’t meet the sone rating, meaning it might be too noisy, discouraging the homeowner from using it. The good picture shows a fan with the right sone rating. Construction Phase: Final Inspection: INTERMITTENT FAN SONE RATING — Verify fans are installed with less than 3 sones by manufacturer. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

9.1-3 Continuous supply & exhaust fans rated at ≤ 1 sone by manufacturer. C Critical Point: Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows a fan that doesn’t meet the sone rating, meaning it might be too noisy, discouraging the homeowner from using it. The good picture shows a fan with the right sone rating. Construction Phase: Final Inspection: Sone rating is greater than 1 on a continuous exhaust fan. Sone rating is less than or equal to 1 on a continuous exhaust fan. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

9.1-3 D / E The fan does not have an ENERGY STAR label.
Bathroom fans used as part of a whole-house mechanical ventilation system shall be ENERGY STAR qualified; unless rated flow rate ≥ 500 CFM. D / E Critical Point: Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows a fan that doesn’t have an ENERGY STAR sticker. The good picture shows a fan with the ENERGY STAR sticker. Construction Phase: Final Inspection: The fan does not have an ENERGY STAR label. The fan has an ENERGY STAR label. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

SECTION 10. COMBUSTION APPLIANCES
10.1 Furnaces, boilers, and water heaters located within the home’s pressure boundary are mechanically drafted or direct-vented. As an exception, naturally drafted equipment is allowed in Climate Zone For naturally drafted furnaces, boilers, and water heaters, the Rater has followed RESNET or BPI combustion safety test procedures and met the selected standard’s limits for depressurization, spillage, draft pressure, and CO concentration in ambient air, as well as a CO concentration in the flue of ≤ 25 ppm. 31,32,33 Critical Point: Summary:

10.2 For fireplaces that are not mechanically drafted or direct-vented to outdoors, total net rated exhaust flow of the two largest exhaust fans (excluding summer cooling fans) is < 15 CFM per 100 sq. ft. of occupiable space when at full capacity or the Rater has verified that the pressure differential is ≤ -5 Pa using BPI’s or RESNET’s worst-case depressurization test procedure. 24,32,33,34,35 Critical Point: Summary:

10.3 If unvented combustion appliances other than cooking ranges are located inside the home’s pressure boundary, the Rater has operated the appliance for at least 10 minutes and verified that the ambient CO level does not exceed 35 ppm. 36 Critical Point: Summary:

Furnaces, boilers, and water heaters located within the home’s pressure boundary are mechanically drafted or direct-vented. As an exception, naturally drafted equipment is allowed in Climate Zone For naturally drafted furnaces, boilers, and water heaters, the Rater has followed RESNET or BPI combustion safety test procedures and met the selected standard’s limits for depressurization, spillage, draft pressure, and CO concentration in ambient air, as well as a CO concentration in the flue of ≤ 25 ppm. 31,32,33 Critical Point: Summary:

Critical Point: Summary: Footnotes: 27. Per the 2009 International Mechanical Code, a direct-vent appliance is one that is constructed and installed so that all air for combustion is derived from the outdoor atmosphere and all flue gases are discharged to the outside atmosphere. Furthermore, a mechanical draft system is a venting system designed to remove flue or vent gases by mechanical means consisting of an induced draft portion under non-positive static pressure or a forced draft portion under positive static pressure. 28. The pressure boundary is the primary air enclosure boundary separating indoor and outdoor air. For example, a volume that has more leakage to outside than to conditioned space would be outside the pressure boundary. 29. Raters shall use either the Building Performance Institute’s (BPI’s) Combustion Safety Test Procedure for Vented Appliances or RESNET’s Interim Guidelines for Combustion Appliance Testing and Writing Work Scope and be BPI-certified or RESNET-accredited to follow the protocol.

10.1 Furnaces, boilers, and water heaters located within the home’s pressure boundary are mechanically drafted or direct-vented to outdoors. If naturally drafted then combustion safety testing is required. 31, 32, 33 A Critical Point: Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows an old furnace where combustion gases can leak back into the conditioned space. The good picture shows a furnace where it is direct vented to the exterior. This leaves no chance for the combustion gases to leak back into the space. Construction Phase: Rough-in/Final Inspection: Final Atmospherically vented heater installed. Requires combustion safety testing. Direct vent appliance installed. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

10.1 Furnaces, boilers, and water heaters located within the home’s pressure boundary are mechanically drafted or direct-vented to outdoors. If naturally drafted then combustion safety testing is required. 31, 32, 33 A Critical Point: Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows a atmospherically vented gas water heater. The combustion gases can leak back into the conditioned space. The good picture shows a water heater with a power vented exhaust to prevent combustion gases from infiltrating the conditioned space. Construction Phase: Rough-in, Final Inspection: Final Atmospherically vented water heater installed. Requires combustion safety testing. Power vented water heater installed. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

10.2 For fireplaces that are not mechanically drafted or direct-vented to outdoors, total net rated exhaust flow of the two largest exhaust fans (excluding summer cooling fans) is < 15 CFM per 100 sq. ft. of occupiable space when at full capacity or the Rater has verified that the pressure differential is ≤ -5 Pa using BPI’s or RESNET’s worst-case depressurization test procedure. 24,32,33,34,35 Critical Point: Summary:

Critical Point: Summary: Footnotes: 20. Per ASHRAE , an exhaust system is one or more fans that remove air from the building, causing outdoor air to enter by ventilation inlets or normal leakage paths through the building envelope. Examples include bath exhaust fans, range hoods, and clothes dryers. 28. The pressure boundary is the primary air enclosure boundary separating indoor and outdoor air. For example, a volume that has more leakage to outside than to conditioned space would be outside the pressure boundary. 29. Raters shall use either the Building Performance Institute’s (BPI’s) Combustion Safety Test Procedure for Vented Appliances or RESNET’s Interim Guidelines for Combustion Appliance Testing and Writing Work Scope and be BPI-certified or RESNET-accredited to follow the protocol. 30. Per ASHRAE and pub. addenda, the term “net-exhaust flow” is defined as flow through an exhaust system minus the compensating outdoor airflow through any supply system that is interlocked to the exhaust system. “Net supply flow” is intended to represent the inverse. If net exhaust flow exceeds allowable limit, it shall be reduced or compensating outdoor airflow provided. 31. Per ASHRAE , occupiable space is any enclosed space inside the pressure boundary and intended for human activities, including, but not limited to, all habitable spaces, toilets, closets, halls, storage and utility areas, and laundry areas. See footnote 26 for definition of “habitable spaces”.

10.3 If unvented combustion appliances other than cooking ranges are located inside the home’s pressure boundary, the Rater has operated the appliance for at least 10 minutes and verified that the ambient CO level does not exceed 35 ppm. 36 Critical Point: Summary:

Critical Point: Summary: Footnotes: 32. The minimum volume of combustion air required for safe operation by the manufacturer and/or code shall be met or exceeded. Also, in accordance with the National Fuel Gas Code, ANSI Z223.l/NFPA54, unvented room heaters shall not be installed in bathrooms or bedrooms.

SECTION 11. FILTRATION 11.1 At least one MERV 6 or higher filter installed in each ducted mechanical system All return air and mechanically supplied outdoor air pass through filter prior to conditioning Filter located and installed so as to facilitate access and regular service by the owner Filter access panel includes gasket or comparable sealing mechanism and fits snugly against the exposed edge of filter when closed to prevent bypass.39 Critical Point: Summary:

Critical Point: Summary: Footnotes: 33. Per ASHRAE , ducted mechanical systems are those that supply air to an occupiable space through ductwork exceeding 10 ft in length and through a thermal conditioning component, except for evaporative coolers. Systems that do not meet this definition are exempt from this requirement. Also, mini-split systems typically do not have MERV-rated filters available for use and are, therefore, also exempted under this version of the guidelines. 34. HVAC filters located in the attic shall be considered accessible to the owner if drop-down stairs provide access to attic and a permanently installed walkway has been provided between the attic access location and the filter. 35. The filter media box (i.e., the component in the HVAC system that houses the filter) may be either site-fabricated by the installer or pre-fabricated by the manufacturer to meet this requirement. These requirements only apply when the filter is installed in a filter media box located in the HVAC system, not when the filter is installed flush with the return grill.

11.1-4 At least one MERV 6 or higher filter installed in each ducted mechanical system.37 A Critical Point: Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows a filter that does not meet the MERV rating. Most filters don’t have the MERV rating on the filter, so finding a product that meets the specification before purchasing is important. The good picture shows a media filter which will meet the MERV requirement. Construction Phase: Final Inspection: The installed filter is not a MERV 6 filter. The installed filter is at least a MERV 6 filter. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

11.1-4 At least one MERV 6 or higher filter installed in each ducted mechanical system.37 B Critical Point: Air Quality — Picture Description: Construction Phase: Inspection: BAD PIC OF INCORRECT FILTER FOR SYSTEM INSTALLED HVAC HOMEOWNER MANUAL SHOWING WHICH FILTER SHOULD BE INSTALLED OR PROPER FILTER INSTALLED HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

11.1-4 All return air and mechanically supplied outdoor air pass through filter prior to conditioning. C Critical Point: Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows a return without a filter. There should always be a filter installed in the return. Verify that the homeowner understands this. The good picture shows a filter properly installed. Construction Phase: Final Inspection: There is no filter installed in the HVAC system. GOOD PIC OF MERV 6 OR HIGHER FILTER INSTALLED. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

11.1-4 All return air and mechanically supplied outdoor air pass through filter prior to conditioning. D Critical Point: Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows an outside air intake without a filter. There should always be a filter installed in the outside air intake. Verify that the homeowner understands this. The good picture shows a filter properly installed. Construction Phase: Final Inspection: There is no filter installed to filter the outdoor air. There is a filter installed to filter outdoor air. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

11.1-4 Filter located and installed so as to facilitate access and regular service by the owner.38 E Critical Point: Air Quality — Picture Description: The good picture shows a unit that this accessible to the homeowner. This also means that the picture shows an acceptable location for the filter. It’s important to talk with the HVAC contractor prior to the final installation to know if the filter will be in an acceptable location. Construction Phase: Rough-in, Final Inspection: Final BAD PIC OF FILTER LOCATION GOOD PIC OF ACCESSIBLE FILTER LOCATION WITH MERV 6 INSTALLED HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

11.1-4 Filter located and installed so as to facilitate access and regular service by the owner.38 F Critical Point: Air Quality — Picture Description: The bad picture shows a proper filter installed, but because it is located in the crawlspace, it could be difficult for the homeowner to access or even for the homeowner to remember it’s there. The good picture shows a filter that this accessible to the homeowner. It’s important to talk with the HVAC contractor prior to the final installation to know if the filter will be in an acceptable location. Construction Phase: Rough-in, Final Inspection: Final The filter is installed in the crawlspace and is not easily accessible. GOOD PIC OF ACCESSIBLE FILTER LOCATION HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

11.1-4 G No gasket at filter location.
Filter access panel includes gasket or comparable sealing mechanism and fits snugly against the exposed edge of filter when closed to prevent bypass.39 G Critical Point: Air Quality Picture Description: The bad picture shows a filter without a gasket. It will be very easy for air to infiltrate around the filter. Construction Phase: Final Inspection: No gasket at filter location. GOOD PIC OF GASKET AT FILTER LOCATION HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

EPA Disclaimer Any mention of trade names, commercial products and organizations in this document does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") or the U.S. Government. The EPA and its collaborators make no warranties, whether expressed or implied, nor assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness or usefulness of the contents of this publication, or any portion thereof, nor represent that its use would not infringe privately owned rights. Further, the EPA cannot be held liable for construction defects or deficiencies resulting from the proper or improper application of the content of this guidebook.

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