2024 RBES (1)
Homes breaking ground before July 1st, 2024 could have exhaust-only ventilation. Now, they must have this.
What is balanced ventilation?
Unlike previous editions, 2024 RBES only has one of these (in addition to one for Log Homes).
What is the number of packages in the 2024 Prescriptive Method?
"An ___ shall be deemed to comply with this code where the ___ alone complies, where the existing building and ___ comply with this code as a single building, or where the building with the ___ does not use more energy than the existing building."
What is an addition?
This free, web-based software allows builders to comply with RBES - without hiring a HERS rater or choosing a Prescriptive package.
What is REScheck?
This Efficiency Vermont program incentivizes EEN builders to go above and beyond RBES. It offers rebates and EVT Certification.
What is Residential New Construction?
With 2020 RBES, a home's efficiency could measure 3___. With 2024 RBES, it must measure 2___.
What is Air Exchanges per Hour at 50 Pascals (ACH50)?
In addition to less-restrictive R-value requirements, 2024 RBES allows Tiny House to not have this mechanical feature.
What is balanced ventilation?
If this part of the building assembly in an existing home is filled with insulation, then it does not need to comply with RBES.
What is a cavity exposed during construction (or "exposed cavity")?
This measurement is the inverse of U-value. The higher the number, the more effective the insulation.
What is R-value?
This Vermont resource has a hotline for sharing information about Energy Code. They do not have jurisdiction over Code.
What is the Energy Code Assistance Center (ECAC)?
According to 2024 RBES, new homes must have an electric panel with at least this much amperage.
What is 200?
With Base Code in 2024 RBES, a builder can make the home Solar Ready for additional points. Solar Ready is required for ___ Code.
What is Stretch?
A standalone/detached guesthouse on a property with an existing home should be considered this type of construction.
What is new construction?
The RBES Certificate is filed with the Public Service Department, the new home, and this office (to allow the Certificate of Occupancy to be issued).
What is the local Town Clerk?
This State entity has jurisdiction over Vermont Building Energy Standards, which applies to all homes built since July 1st, 1998,
What is the Public Service Department?
2024 RBES defines a tiny house as being below this many square feet.
What is 400?
As of July 1st, all ductwork and air handlers in new homes must be within this.
What is the thermal boundary or conditioned space?
This type of window replacement does have to comply with RBES.
What is the replacement of the sash and glazing (i.e. the frame and glass)?
Unconditioned buildings, seasonal hunting camps, and owner-built home are examples of this.
What are buildings that don't need to comply with RBES?
Vermont's Energy Code is based on this "model code," with alterations specific to our state's Climate Zone and energy policies.
What is the International Code Council (ICC)?
The Prescriptive Table in 2024 RBES introduces this new criteria, which combines the U-value of each component of the assembly.
What is U-factor? (Note: not U-value)
This new section of the Points Table asks builders to report the Global Warming Potential of their insulation materials.
What is Insulation Embodied Carbon Emissions (or "Embodied Carbon")?
This type of window replacement does not have to comply with RBES.
What is the replacement of glass only (in an existing sash)?
Homes that receive a ___ permit (Vermont’s land use and development law, enacted in 1970) must comply with Stretch Code.
What is Act 250?
"If a home required by law to meet the Energy Code does not comply, a home owner may seek damages in court within ___ years of occupancy or the filing of the required certification."
What is six?