Home energy ratings are used to evaluate the energy efficiency of both new and existing homes. For a new homes, an energy rating can verify energy efficiency for code compliance, an ENERGY STAR rating, or an energy efficient mortgage. Home energy professionals can also model a new home's energy and utility use, and help to select energy-efficient features. For an existing home, an energy rating evaluates the home's current energy performance and identifies the most effective and cost-saving energy improvements to increase the home's efficiency. Home energy ratings of existing homes are also used as a tool by homebuyers compare the energy performance of homes they are considering. During a home energy rating, the energy rater inspects a home and measures its energy characteristics, and performance testing (such as a blower door test, duct leakage or thermal imaging) may be used.

A HERS (Home Energy Rater) is a certified, independent, third-party home energy professional. HERS raters are certified by RESNET, the Residential Energy Services Network, a national nonprofit. HERS ratings are the recognized standard for certifying ENERGY STAR new homes, and are required for an energy-efficient mortgage, including those provided by HUD.

Interested in a home energy rating for your home? To find a certified rater in your area, click here.

For more information about home energy ratings, or on becoming a certified home energy rater, visit the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) website.

To learn more about ENERGY STAR for new homes, including local providers, and the benefits of an ENERGY STAR new home, visit the Energy Star website.

Energy Efficient Mortgages (EEMs) make energy efficient homes more affordable, and help homeowners to improve the energy efficiency of existing homes. They also offer the assurance of a rating report by a third party energy rater. For more information, including providers, visit the Energy Efficient Mortgage page on the Energy Star website.

The Ohio Department of Development Office of Energy Efficiency offers grants and loans for energy efficiency and renewable energy. To learn what programs are currently being offered, qualifications, and application forms, visit the ODOD/OEE website.

Federal tax credits are available for energy efficient new homes and for qualified home energy efficiency improvements. For more information on tax credits available and qualifications, visit the US Department of Energy website or the IRS website.