Question 1

What is a HERS® Rater?

Accepted Answer

The term 'HERS' stands for 'Home Energy Rating Systems' and a certified HERS® Rater determines the energy efficiency of a residence.  A HERS® rater understands how to measure and evaluate a residential building plus examines and documents  all the energy consuming items involved in the building.

Question 2

How much does it cost to enroll in this class?

Accepted Answer

Due to grant funding, the HERS® Rater course cost is subsidized for students. You will not pay anything to enroll and take this class pending you finish the entire course.

Question 3

When does the HERS® Rater Certification Class start?

Accepted Answer

Monday, March 17th is the official start to this class. You should receive the login information to the EnergySmart Institute platform during orientation.

Question 4

Will there be a class orientation?

Accepted Answer

Yes. There will be an orientation in March before the class starts. Program staff will follow up with a date/time and the Zoom OR Microsoft Teams link. At the orientation, students will receive   an overview of the program and have any questions answered. Students will also receive course materials.

Question 5

Will this class meet virtually or in-person?

Accepted Answer

The course is all online and on-demand.  However, the first module in the course provides information and a link to schedule face-to-face meetings over Zoom with the instructor, so it is a combo online and live over Zoom course.  The office hours are very flexible.

Question 6

Who is my instructor?

Accepted Answer

You will be taught by EnergySmart Institute instructor, Sharla Reid.

Question 7

What is the length of this class?

Accepted Answer

The length of time it takes is solely up to you, the student, and how much time you can devote to learning each day or each week. There is about 100 hours of training condensed into bite-sized pieces. Students have completed it in time-frames ranging from two weeks to eight weeks.

Question 8

Is there help available if I have questions about the course material?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Your instructor has a scheduling tool you can use to schedule a meeting where you can drop into a video conference to discuss any course topics.  You will also be provided you with your instructor's email address and phone number for immediate assistance.

Question 9

Will I be certified when I finish this class?

Accepted Answer

Almost.  Once you have successfully completed the course, you will receive a certificate as required by RESNET to prove you have taken and passed an Accredited HERS Rater Training course. You then need to take and pass the national exams and complete probationary ratings to complete certification.

Question 10

What is the pass rate for this course?

Accepted Answer

This course currently has a pass rate (including all required RESNET exams) of 98% on the first try.

Question 11

What materials do I need for class?

Accepted Answer

Students will need access to a computer w/ internet. You will need to have a calculator that can calculate square roots.  Access to a printer for study guides and assignment downloads. You will need a tape measure & pencil for the scale drawing assignments. You will need a phone camera for pictures.

Question 12

Who can I contact at Metropolitan Energy Center if I have questions?

Accepted Answer

Students, community partners, and employers should email "building-u@metroenergy.org", Metropolitan Energy Center staff monitor this email frequently.

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