BLOG Top Tips for Preparing Your Home for a H.E.R.S. Rating Apr 22, 2025

If you're preparing your home for a H.E.R.S. Rating, you're already on the right path toward energy efficiency and sustainability. The H.E.R.S. (Home Energy Rating System) is an important step in assessing the energy performance of your home. By understanding this rating, you can make informed decisions about energy improvements and potentially lower your utility bills. Before the assessor arrives, it's crucial to ensure your home is ready. In this blog post, we provide essential tips to help you prepare effectively for a H.E.R.S. Rating.

Firstly, it's important to understand the significance of a H.E.R.S. Rating. It gives you a clear picture of your home's energy efficiency, highlighting areas that need improvement. This can increase the home's value and attractiveness to future buyers. Knowing the benefits, you'll want to present your home in the best light possible.

Start by conducting a basic energy audit of your home. Check for drafts around windows and doors, as these are common places where energy escapes. Sealing these areas with weatherstripping or caulking can significantly improve your home's energy efficiency. Also, inspect insulation in the attic, walls, and basement. Proper insulation is crucial for a comfortable indoor environment and can greatly contribute to a better rating.

Next, focus on your home's heating and cooling systems. Ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. Consider having it serviced by a professional, as a well-maintained system can impact the overall H.E.R.S. Rating positively. Clean or replace filters to enhance performance. If your system is outdated, explore upgrading to a more energy-efficient model, which can reduce energy use and costs over time.

Lighting is another important factor. Transition to energy-efficient light bulbs such as LEDs. They consume less electricity and last longer, which can be a quick win in improving your home's energy efficiency. Remember that the energy rater will take note of lighting efficiency during the assessment.

Do not overlook your appliances. Assess your home's major appliances like the refrigerator, dishwasher, and washing machine. Energy Star-rated appliances are ideal as they use less energy without sacrificing performance. If your appliances are older, it might be time to consider replacements, but even maximizing efficiency with your current models can help.

Before the day of the H.E.R.S. inspection, ensure your utility bills and home documentation are readily accessible. Providing these documents to the inspector can help them understand your home's energy usage patterns better.

On the day of the inspection, clear any obstructive items around key areas like the attic hatch, utility room, and any other locations where essential inspections may occur. This ensures the inspector has easy access and can conduct a thorough assessment.

In conclusion, preparing for a H.E.R.S. Rating involves thoughtful innovations and some simple home improvements. By following these tips, not only will you likely achieve a better energy rating, but you'll also contribute to a more sustainable future and potentially lower your living costs. Take these proactive steps to enhance your home's energy performance and watch how it pays dividends in many ways.

Reach out to professionals at A H.E.R.S. Rater for more guidance and expert advice on improving your home's energy efficiency. Our team is here to help ensure that your home meets its maximum potential in energy performance.