The required ECC/HERS measures depend on your project type. HVAC replacements require a different set of tests than new construction. Roo's Ratings performs all required measures — standalone or bundled with your core inspection.
When an HVAC system is replaced or ductwork is altered, California Title 24 requires specific ECC verification measures to confirm the installed equipment performs as designed and meets energy code. These are the four most common tests Roo's Ratings performs on altered systems.
Measures how much conditioned air is leaking from the duct system. Leaky ducts reduce efficiency and comfort while increasing energy bills. This test is required when ductwork is altered, extended, or replaced, and must meet the leakage threshold specified in the Title 24 compliance documents.
Required — ductwork alterations & replacementsMeasures the actual watt consumption of the air handler fan in operation. This verifies the fan motor is efficient — expressed in watts per CFM (W/CFM). An oversized or inefficient motor runs continuously and wastes significant energy. Required for HVAC replacements and new systems.
Required — HVAC replacements & new systemsConfirms the AC or heat pump system is charged to the manufacturer's specification per CF-2R requirements. An incorrectly charged system can lose up to 20% efficiency and fails Title 24. Required for all new HVAC installations and replacements in California.
Required — all HVAC installationsMeasures the actual airflow (CFM) delivered by the HVAC system to confirm it matches the design specifications. Proper airflow is critical for efficient heating and cooling, refrigerant performance, and occupant comfort. Often measured as part of the same visit as refrigerant charge and fan watt draw.
Required — HVAC replacements & new systemsMost HVAC contractors schedule duct leakage, fan watt draw, refrigerant charge, and airflow verification together on the same visit. Booking them together saves time and significantly reduces the cost compared to scheduling separately. Call us to confirm what your project requires and get a bundle quote.
Call for Bundle PricingNew construction projects require a broader set of ECC verification measures covering the building envelope, duct system, and HVAC equipment. Since 2019, California Title 24 has made blower door testing nearly universal on new builds. Here's what's typically required.
Measures whole-house air leakage (ACH50) to verify the building envelope is properly air-sealed. Nearly universal on new construction post-2019 Title 24 updates. California requires homes to meet a maximum leakage threshold — homes that fail need additional sealing before the permit can close.
Required — most new constructionTests how much conditioned air is leaking from the duct system to unconditioned spaces (attic, crawlspace, etc.). Required unless all ducts are located fully within conditioned space. Reducing duct leakage is one of the most impactful ways to improve a home's energy performance.
Required — unless ducts in conditioned spaceA field confirmation that ducts are installed where the approved plans indicate. Verifies that the duct layout matches what was submitted for permit — an important step in the overall energy compliance documentation process.
Required — new constructionConfirms the AC or heat pump system is charged to manufacturer specs. An improperly charged system reduces efficiency by up to 20% and fails Title 24 compliance. Required for all new HVAC equipment on new construction projects.
Required — all new HVACMeasures actual system airflow (CFM) to confirm it meets design specifications. Correct airflow ensures proper refrigerant performance, heating/cooling delivery, and occupant comfort. Typically measured in the same visit as refrigerant charge.
Required — all new HVACMeasures the actual watt consumption of the air handler fan to verify it meets California's fan efficiency requirements (W/CFM). Required for new construction — confirms the installed motor matches compliance documentation and operates efficiently over its lifetime.
Required — new constructionA visual inspection that verifies insulation was installed correctly — full coverage, no voids, and proper contact with all surfaces. QII is a new construction measure only. It is not required for altered or replacement systems. When specified in the Title 24 compliance documents, QII verification allows the builder to claim credit for better insulation performance in the energy model.
New construction onlyCall or send a message — we'll confirm what your project requires and get you scheduled fast.
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