Performance Testing Overview
Become a Performance Tester
Performance Testing Technical Specifications
Performance Testing Resources, Forms and Contacts
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Bring your expertise to ENERGY STAR builders and homeowners!

Every ENERGY STAR qualified home has the duct distribution and heat pump systems ‘performance tested’ to ensure that systems and equipment work as designed. ENERGY STAR builders need the services of trained heat pump commissioning and duct testing contractors to ensure they have met the Northwest ENERGY STAR Homes certification requirements. Only then will their home be ENERGY STAR qualified.

Becoming an approved performance tester is easy. Follow the two steps below and become a Northwest ENERGY STAR Homes program partner.

Step 1 - Complete Approved Training
ENERGY STAR requires performance testing on all ducted air delivery systems and commissioning on all heat pumps. These tests must be performed by contractors with certifications from trainers approved by the Regional Technical Forum (RTF). Trainings are provided by a number of RTF-approved entities on a regular basis. Training options include:

  • Full Duct Course (usually 2 days)
  • Heat Pump Commissioning (usually 1 day)

In addition, some homes may require blower door testing. Technicians conducting blower door tests must be trained through an eligible training program. If you are interested in providing this service or finding out if you are already qualified to perform these tests, contact your State Certification Organization to find out about eligible training programs.

Step 2 - Sign the Partnership Agreement
Once you have completed an approved training, complete the Performance Testing Contractor Partnership Agreement to officially enroll in the program. After enrolling, you will receive a welcome packet with important materials for your work.

Download:
Performance Testing Contractor Partnership Agreement

Building Your Business
The Northwest ENERGY STAR Homes program will help you market your performance testing services and build your business. 

Cooperative Marketing Fund
Your company is eligible for up to $1,500 in cooperative marketing support when you include the ENERGY STAR logo and messaging in your advertisements.

Download:
Performance Tester Cooperative Marketing Fund Application

NorthwestENERGYSTAR.com Website Listing
Your company’s name will be posted on the web at NorthwestENERGYSTAR.com as an approved performance testing contractor. Participating builders are required to hire approved contractors to performance test their homes.  Your company's listing on the web site helps builders easily find and work with you.

Mandatory Reporting
You will be responsible for providing the verifier with relevant testing documentation for each home. You will fill out and affix the Performance Testing Label to the air handler to document your duct inspection. In addition, a copy of the report for heat pump commissioning will need to be provided to the verifier directly or by way of the builder.

Quality Assurance
As part of a quality control protocol for the Northwest ENERGY STAR Homes program, any work completed and resulting data may be subject to independent verification or testing. In addition to this third-party quality control, SCO’s will conduct quality assurance (QA) of the entire certification process including independent performance testing of the systems. For more information on the SCO’s QA process, click here.
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