Energy Usage Simulations Analysis

Steps to becoming an Energy Star builder:

• Have the plans for your home reviewed by Cornerstone.
  • Send a set of drawings that includes: foundation, elevations, window and door schedule, floor plans for each story, wall sections, a list of any options that change the dimensions of the exterior walls or window/door areas. Or you may e-mail a .pdf version to
• Cornerstone Energy will complete a “Rating Based on Plans” to determine if the building meets ENERGY STAR criteria. If the building falls short of the criteria, we will prepare a list of recommendations that will bring the design into compliance.
• When the home is near completion (after paint) we will inspect and blower door test the home.
• Cornerstone Energy will complete the certification and mail the ENERGY STAR label and certificate to your office or directly to the home owner, whichever you choose.
• Cornerstone Energy will report the number of ENERGY STAR homes completed by you to the EPA every quarter. The EPA will then include this number on their web-site along with your company name.

What is a Home Energy Rating?

A Home Energy Rating is a system that helps a consumer compare different improvements to energy features in a home to determine which is the most cost-effective.

What action steps are taken to determine possible energy defects?

• The HERS rater will examine the attic, wall, floor and foundation insulation.
• The HERS rater will perform a blower door test to look for air leaks. This test not only shows how and where air leaks occur, but can determine what level of air tightness is best to keep the indoor environment healthy.
• The HERS rater will perform duct leakage testing. This is the most common energy defect.
• The HERS Rater will test the furnace to determine its efficiency.
• A report will be generated that will show what improvements will save the most energy for the least amount of money. Below is a sample report of the final analysis from the data collected.

Residential Energy Analysis