How to Become an Energy Star HVAC Contractor

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is looking for contractors who want to learn all about best practices in HVAC design and installation. ¹

As an Energy Star contractor, you can connect to leaders in the building industry. Becoming credentialed with an Energy Star program can also help you stand out among your competitors. ²

What Does Energy Star Certified Mean?

HVAC students know energy efficiency ratings like SEER. Energy Star certified homes are designed according to HVAC best practices to achieve efficiency, comfort, and durability. If a homeowner wants their home to become Energy Star certified, certain key design elements must be completed by an Energy Star certified HVAC contractor. These elements include:

• Designing a whole-house ventilation system
• Calculating room-by-room heating and cooling loads
• Choosing heating and cooling equipment using calculated loads
• Developing a duct system for chosen equipment

HVAC Energy Star Requirements

Several skilled trades contractors are eligible for the Energy Star credential program, such as window contractors, remodelers, energy raters, and of course HVAC contractors. If you have completed HVAC training and want to participate in an Energy Star program, you must meet the EPA’s requirements:

• Leverage the Energy Star brand
• Connect with a local program sponsor
• Follow sponsor protocols
• Receive project reviews
• Track and report activity ³

Steps to Becoming an Energy Star HVAC Contractor

If you have determined that you are eligible and wish to enroll in an Energy Star program, follow these simple steps:

1. Contact a local program sponsor
2. Meet the requirements of your local sponsor
3. Sign Contractor Participation Agreement
4. Email Energy Star at [email protected] if there is no local program near you

New Energy Star Program for Duct Sealing

The EPA introduced a new Energy Star program focusing on duct-sealing in late 2016. This new program is called Energy Star Verified HVAC Installation (ESVI) and emphasizes the importance of duct sealing for maximum home energy efficiency. HVAC contractors can partner up with a local utility company, Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA), or an EPA-recognized third party to install or upgrade an HVAC system following ESVI guidelines. Once completed, the contactor will submit the work for testing and verification. If approved, the homeowner will receive the ESVI certificate. ⁴

Working with Energy Star is a great way to increase your job opportunities. Moreover, it allows you to stay up to date with the latest developments in energy efficient technology in HVAC. If you are interested in participating in an Energy Star program, look for a local program sponsor or contact the EPA.

Please check back for updates regarding the EnergyStar programs.

Additional Sources
1 – https://energystar.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/211438408-Can-an-HVAC-contractor-partner-with-ENERGY-STAR-
2 – https://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=bldrs_lenders_raters.nh_hvac_contractors_become
3 – https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/improvements/professionals/become_participating_contractor
4 – http://www.achrnews.com/articles/133741-new-us-epa-energy-star-program-focuses-on-hvac-installations