You’ve invested in a new HVAC system and the installation is finally complete. But before you can wrap up the job and close your permit, one crucial step remains—your HERS inspection. Required by California law, this inspection ensures your system meets energy efficiency and performance standards under Title 24.
But what exactly happens during a HERS inspection? And how can you ensure your system passes the first time without delays or rework? In this post, we’ll break down everything homeowners need to know about the process and how the right HVAC partner can make it seamless.
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TLDR – Quick Guide
A HERS inspection includes:
- Duct leakage testing
- Airflow verification
- Refrigerant charge check (for applicable systems)
- Verification of proper installation and equipment documentation
Why it matters:
- Required for permit closure in California
- Ensures your system is safe, energy-efficient, and compliant
- Must be conducted by a third-party certified rater
Detailed Breakdown: What Happens During a HERS Inspection?
1. Why a HERS Inspection Is Required After HVAC Work
In California, a Home Energy Rating System (HERS) inspection is mandatory after any major HVAC installation, replacement, or ductwork modification. This isn’t just red tape—it’s part of the state’s effort to enforce energy efficiency and safe operation through building codes (Title 24).
The HERS inspection acts as a quality check on the work performed by your contractor. It ensures your HVAC system runs as efficiently as promised and helps prevent long-term performance issues that could cost you more down the line.
2. What the HERS Rater Actually Checks
A HERS inspection isn’t a quick glance at your new unit. Certified raters run performance tests and verify installation quality. Here are the core elements:
- Duct Leakage Testing: Measures how much air escapes from your duct system. Too much leakage fails the inspection.
- Airflow Testing: Verifies that your system pushes enough air through the ductwork to maintain comfort and efficiency.
- Refrigerant Charge Test: Ensures the correct level of refrigerant is in your system, critical for heat pumps and AC units.
- Equipment Verification: Confirms that your equipment matches what was permitted and recorded in compliance forms.
These tests often require full system operation, access to registers and equipment, and a clean work area. If your system doesn’t pass, corrections must be made and a retest may be required.
Brewer Heating & Air Conditioning helps customers pass HERS inspections the first time by managing every step—from documentation to pre-inspection readiness.
3. Who Performs the HERS Inspection?
HERS testing must be conducted by a third-party certified rater—not your contractor or HVAC technician. This ensures unbiased results and protects homeowners from non-compliant installations.
Your HVAC contractor is responsible for coordinating the rater, submitting the required CF1R and CF2R documents, and ensuring your system is ready to pass. Brewer Heating & Air Conditioning handles these requirements in-house so you don’t have to track down multiple contacts or miss key deadlines.
4. What You Need to Prepare as a Homeowner
You don’t have to be hands-on during the HERS inspection, but there are a few things you can do to support a smooth process:
- Make sure the technician has clear access to the equipment and registers
- Ensure your home’s power and system controls are working properly
- Have your HVAC paperwork or permit info handy if requested
Most importantly, work with a contractor who knows the ins and outs of California compliance. That way, you’re not left guessing about what needs to happen next.
Contact us to make sure your system passes inspection without delays.
5. What Happens After the HERS Inspection?
Once your system passes, the rater submits the results to California’s HERS registry. This is then tied to your building permit file, allowing the final city or county inspection to proceed and your project to officially close.
If corrections are needed, your HVAC contractor must fix the issue before a retest is scheduled. Having a contractor who gets it right the first time can save you time, stress, and extra costs.
Key Takeaways
- HERS inspections are mandatory in California for most HVAC installations and replacements.
- The inspection includes duct leakage, airflow, refrigerant, and equipment verification.
- Only a third-party certified HERS rater can perform the inspection—not your contractor.
- Proper paperwork and system prep are essential to avoid delays or failed tests.
- Working with Brewer Heating & Air Conditioning means your system is prepped to pass the first time.
FAQs
How long does a HERS inspection take?
Most HERS inspections take between 1 to 2 hours, depending on the system and how easy it is to access. Duct testing and airflow checks take the most time. A well-prepared home and system can help speed up the process.
Is a HERS inspection required for every HVAC replacement?
In California, most HVAC change-outs, new installations, and duct modifications require HERS testing under Title 24. There are very few exceptions. Always check with your contractor or local permitting office to confirm.
What happens if my system fails the HERS test?
If your system doesn’t meet the required performance levels, it must be corrected before the rater can issue a passing certificate. This could involve sealing duct leaks, adjusting refrigerant levels, or fixing airflow issues. Your contractor should handle the corrections at no extra charge if they were part of the original install.
Can I choose my own HERS rater?
Technically yes, but most homeowners let their HVAC contractor coordinate the rater as part of the installation process. This reduces scheduling issues and paperwork confusion. It also ensures your contractor is accountable for passing the test.
Does passing a HERS inspection affect my energy bills?
Yes—passing the HERS inspection means your system is running at peak efficiency, which lowers your energy use and monthly bills. Systems that fail often cost more to operate due to air leakage or poor refrigerant charge. HERS ensures you’re getting the efficiency you paid for.