Title 24 · California Energy Code
What field verification is required when performance compliance relies on equipment above prescriptive minimums?
If your performance compliance relies on installing equipment or achieving enclosure performance above the prescriptive baseline, California’s Energy Code requires on‑site testing per the Reference Residential Appendix procedures (for HVAC, blower door, whole‑house fans, etc.) and the results must be recorded on the required Certificates of Installation/Verification; this is set out in **§ 150.1(b)2** (single‑family) and **§ 170.1(b)2** (multifamily).
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
When a building uses features, materials, components, manufactured devices or systems above the prescriptive minimums to demonstrate compliance with a performance energy budget, the installation must be field verified using the specified test and diagnostic procedures and the results must be recorded on the required certificates. The single‑family rule is in § 150.1(b)2 and the multifamily rule is in § 170.1(b)2 — both direct the builder/installer to perform the applicable Reference Residential Appendix procedures and to document results on the Certificates of Installation and Certificates of Verification.
If your chosen performance trade-offs depend on equipment or enclosure performance that is better than the prescriptive baseline, you must verify in the field (by the tests named in the Code’s Reference Appendices) that the installed items actually perform as modeled — and record those results on the required certificates.
Key defined terms (first mention bolded)
- Field verification — on‑site testing and diagnostic checks required when performance compliance depends on higher‑than‑minimum equipment or performance.
- Performance compliance — demonstrating the proposed building’s calculated energy use is no greater than the standard design’s energy budget (performance approach).
Requirements in detail
Trigger (when field verification is required)
Field verification is required when performance compliance for a building depends on installed items being better than the prescriptive minimums in the Code (for example a higher rated HVAC unit, lower enclosure leakage than the standard design, whole‑house fan performance, etc.). This requirement appears explicitly at § 150.1(b)2 for single‑family and § 170.1(b)2 for multifamily.
What must be documented
The results of the required field verification(s) must be documented on the applicable Certificates of Installation (Section 10‑103(a)3) and Certificates of Verification (Section 10‑103(a)5), as directed by the performance compliance sections.
Decision‑relevant table (what to test, when, and where to find the procedure)
| Equipment / performance item (decision dimension) | When it’s required (trigger) | Field verification procedure (what to do) | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Higher‑rated space‑conditioning system (EER2/SEER2/CEER/HSPF2) | If the modeled system rating exceeds the prescriptive Table rating and compliance depends on that higher rating | Field verification per the procedures in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.4 | § 150.1(b)2; § 170.1(b)2 |
| Variable capacity heat pump (VCHP) | If VCHP option is used for performance compliance | RA3.4.4.3 procedures in ACM/Reference Appendices | § 150.1(b)2; § 170.1(b)2 |
| Low leakage air handler | If required by the performance model | RA3.1.4.3.9 verification procedures | § 150.1(b)2; § 170.1(b)2 |
| Heat pump — rated heating capacity (47°F & 17°F) | If modeled heating capacity is relied upon for compliance | RA3.4 field tests for rated heating capacity | § 150.1(b)2; § 170.1(b)2 |
| Whole‑house fan (airflow & efficacy) | If whole‑house fan performance is used in the energy model | RA3.9 airflow & efficacy procedures | § 150.1(b)2 |
| Central‑fan ventilation cooling system | If used to meet modeled cooling savings | RA3.3.4 verification procedures | § 150.1(b)2 |
| Building enclosure air leakage (blower door) | If model assumes tighter enclosure than the standard design | RA3.8 blower‑door procedures | § 150.1(b)2; § 170.1(b)2 |
| Quality Insulation Installation (QII) | If credit for QII is part of the performance compliance | RA3.5 QII verification procedures | § 150.1(b)2; § 170.1(b)2 |
| Certificates of Installation / Verification | Always when field verification is performed per the triggers above | Complete the forms specified in Section 10‑103(a)3 and 10‑103(a)5 | § 150.1(b)2; § 170.1(b)2 |
(Each line above points to the Code text that directs which Reference Appendix method to use; the Appendices contain the step‑by‑step test procedures.)
Who performs the verification
The Code references the Reference Residential Appendices for which parties (installer, ECC‑Rater, or other certified test technicians) perform or witness tests; see the specific RA procedure for the required tester (for example refrigerant charge verification often requires an ECC‑Rater to verify).
Exceptions & special cases
- Packaged systems that were factory pre‑charged and certified by the manufacturer are excepted from field refrigerant‑charge confirmation; the installer must certify on the Certificate of Installation that the packaged system was factory pre‑charged and not altered.
- For multifamily dwelling units in buildings four habitable stories or greater, some field verification and ECC‑Provider data registry requirements in the Reference Appendices are not required; the installer may certify that diagnostic testing was performed instead (specific exceptions are noted in the multifamily sections and in the RA).
- Some systems that cannot physically accommodate required measurement access holes, probes, or specific test set‑ups have explicitly allowed exceptions — but those exceptions will substitute alternate RA procedures or documentation requirements. Check the applicable RA subsection for the permitted alternative.
If you plan to rely on a nonstandard device or an ACM option (e.g., VCHP), always read the referenced RA procedure for any special access, instrumentation, or personnel qualifications required.
Common mistakes
- Assuming manufacturer certification alone removes the need for field verification when the energy model depends on equipment performance above the prescriptive baseline — the Code still requires the field verification called out in § 150.1(b)2 / § 170.1(b)2.
- Forgetting to record verification results on the Certificates of Installation and Certificates of Verification (Section 10‑103). Documentation is mandatory where field verification is triggered.
- Not using the correct RA procedure (each equipment type points to a specific RA section — e.g., RA3.4 for higher‑rated HVAC vs RA3.8 for blower‑door). Using a different or incomplete test protocol can render the certificate invalid.
- Overlooking multifamily exceptions (4+ stories) and incorrectly requiring the ECC‑Rater protocol where the installer certification would be allowed. Check the multifamily text carefully.
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: New single‑family home uses a higher‑efficiency split heat pump (rated SEER2 = 19) and the compliance model credits a tighter building enclosure (modeled leakage 2.5 ACH50 versus the standard design 5.5 ACH50). The permit applicant used the performance approach to meet the energy budget.
What must be done on site:
Because the modeled HVAC rating (SEER2 = 19) is above the prescriptive Table minimum and is relied on for compliance, the installed space‑conditioning system must be field verified per Reference Residential Appendix RA3.4 (verify rated performance, refrigerant charge per the RA procedure, and any required airflow or instrumentation). Document the verification on the Certificates. Controlling text: § 150.1(b)2.
Because the modeled enclosure leakage is tighter than the standard design, perform a blower‑door test and enclosure leakage verification per RA3.8 and record the measured ACH50 (or other RA metric) on the Certificate of Verification. Controlling text: § 150.1(b)2.
If refrigerant charge verification is required by the RA procedure, ensure the ECC‑Rater verifies charge per RA3.2.2 (or use the allowed weigh‑in method with the ECC‑Rater verification where applicable). If your unit was factory pre‑charged and qualifies under the packaged‑system exception, the installer must certify that it was not altered. file
Result: After completion of the RA‑prescribed tests, the Certificates of Installation / Verification are completed and included with the final compliance submittal, satisfying the field verification obligations required because performance compliance depended on higher‑than‑minimum equipment and tighter enclosure.
What I could not find in the retrieved files
You asked for controlling sections § 150.1(b)2, § 140.1(b)2, and § 170.1(b)2. The retrieved material contains the full text and requirements for § 150.1(b)2 (single‑family) and § 170.1(b)2 (multifamily) including the specific list of items that require RA field verification and the documentation requirement. I did not find the text of § 140.1(b)2 in the provided file excerpts, so I cannot quote or summarize that section from your uploaded files. If you want the nonresidential (Section 140.1) text included, please upload or point me to that section and I will incorporate it and map the corresponding field‑verification triggers and RA procedures.
Related provisions
- § 150.1(b)2 — Single‑family performance approach: field verification triggers and documentation.
- § 170.1(b)2 — Multifamily performance approach: field verification triggers and documentation.
- § 150.1(c) — Prescriptive minimums (the baseline that “above minimums” are measured against).
- § 10‑103(a)3 and § 10‑103(a)5 — Certificates of Installation and Certificates of Verification (where results must be recorded).
- § 110.1 / § 110.2 — Appliance and space‑conditioning equipment certification and when field verification or alternate demonstration is needed.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Energy Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
§ 10-103 High relevance — show source text
- Compliance demonstration requirements for performance standards. A. Certificate of compliance and application for a building permit. The application for a building permit shall include documentation pursuant to Sections 10-103(a)1 and 10-103(a)2 which demonstrates, using an approved calculation method, that the building has been designed so that its energy consumption does not exceed the standard design energy budgets for the applicable climate zone. Exception to Section 150.1(b)2A Multiple orientation: A permit applicant may demonstrate compliance with the energy budget requirements of Section 150.1(a) and (b) for any orientation of the same building model if the documentation demonstrates that the building model with its proposed designs and features would comply in each of the four cardinal orientations.
B. Field verification. When performance of installed features, materials, components, manufactured devices or systems above the minimum specified in Section 150.1(c) is necessary for the building to comply with Section 150.1(b), or is necessary to achieve a more stringent local ordinance, field verification shall be performed in accordance with the applicable requirements in the following subsections, and the results of the verification(s) shall be documented on applicable certificates of installation pursuant to Section 10-103(a)3 and applicable certificates of verification pursuant to Section 10-103(a)5. i. EER2/SEER2/CEER/HSPF2 Rating. When performance compliance requires installation of a space-conditioning system with a rating that is greater than the minimum rating required by Table 150.1-A or specified for the standard design, the installed system shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures specified in the applicable sections of Reference Residential Appendix RA3.4. ii. Variable capacity heat pump (VCHP) compliance option. When performance compliance requires installation of a heat pump system that meets all the requirements of the VCHP compliance option specified in the ACM
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Reference Manual, the system shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.4.4.3. iii. Low leakage air handler. When performance compliance requires installation of a low leakage air-handling unit, the installed air-handling unit shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.1.4.3.9.
iv. Reserved.
v. Heat pump — rated heating capacity. When performance compliance requires installation of a heat pump system, the heating capacity values at 47°F and 17°F shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.4. vi. Whole-house fan. When performance compliance requires installation of a whole-house fan, the whole-house fan ventilation airflow rate and fan efficacy shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.9. vii. Central fan ventilation cooling system. When performance compliance requires installation of a central fan ventilation cooling system, the installed system shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.3.4. viii. Building enclosure air leakage. When performance compliance requires a building enclosure leakage rate that is lower than the standard design, the building enclosure shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.8. ix. **Quality Insulation Installation (QII).
§ 170.1 High relevance — show source text
A. The Efficiency LSC energy is the sum of the LSC energy for space-conditioning, water heating, mechanical ventilation, lighting and the self-utilization credit. B. The Total LSC energy is the sum of the Efficiency LSC energy and LSC energy from the photovoltaic system, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and demand flexibility. 2. Source energy. The source energy budget is determined by applying the mandatory and prescriptive requirements of the standard design, except with a consumer gas or propane water heater, to the proposed design building.
Exception to Section 170.1(a): A community shared solar electric generation system, or other renewable electric generation system, and/or community shared BESS, that provides dedicated power, utility energy reduction credits or payments for energy bill reductions to the permitted building and is approved by the Energy Commission as specified in Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-115, may offset part or all of the solar electric generation system or BESS LSC energy required to comply with the standards, as calculated according to methods established by the Commission in the Nonresidential ACM Reference Manual.
(b) Compliance demonstration requirements for performance standards.
- Certificate of Compliance and Application for a Building Permit. The application for a building permit shall include documentation pursuant to Sections 10-103(a)1 and 10-103(a)2 that demonstrates, using an approved calculation method, that the building has been designed so that its source energy and LSC energy consumption do not exceed the standard design energy budgets for the applicable climate zone.
- Field verification of individual dwelling unit systems. When performance of installed features, materials, components, manufactured devices or systems above the minimum specified in Section 170.2 is necessary for the building to comply with Section 170.1, or is necessary to achieve a more stringent local ordinance, field verification shall be performed in accordance with the applicable requirements in the following subsections, and the results of the verification(s) shall be documented on applicable Certificates of Installation pursuant to Section 10-103(a)3 and applicable Certificates of Verification pursuant to Section 10-103(a)5. A. EER2/SEER2/CEER/HSPF2 Rating. When performance compliance requires installation of a space-conditioning system with a rating that is greater than the minimum rating required by Table 170.2-K or specified for the standard
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design, the installed system shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures specified in the applicable sections of Reference Residential Appendix RA3. B. Variable capacity heat pump (VCHP) compliance option. When performance compliance requires installation of a heat pump system that meets all the requirements of the VCHP compliance option specified in the ACM Reference Manual, the system shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.4.4.3.
C. Low leakage air handler. When performance compliance requires installation of a low leakage air-handling unit, the installed air handling unit shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.1.4.3.9. D. Thermal balancing valve. When performance compliance requires installation of thermal balancing valves with variable speed circulation pump(s), the installation shall meet the procedures specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA4.4.3. E. Heat pump—rated heating capacity.
§ 10-109 High relevance — show source text
(b) Performance approach. A building complies with the performance approach if the energy consumption calculated for the proposed design building is no greater than the energy budget calculated for the standard design building using Commission-certified compliance software as specified by Sections 10-109(c) and 10-116.
- Energy budget. The energy budget is expressed in terms of source energy and long-term system cost (LSC). A. Long-term system cost (LSC). The LSC energy budget is determined by applying the mandatory and prescriptive requirements of the standard design to the proposed design building and has two components, the Efficiency LSC and the Total LSC.
i. The Efficiency LSC energy is the sum of the LSC energy for space-conditioning, water heating, mechanical ventilation, and the self-utilization credit.
ii. The Total LSC energy is the sum of the Efficiency LSC energy and LSC energy from the photovoltaic system, battery energy storage systems (BESS), lighting, demand flexibility, and other plug loads. B. Source energy. The source energy budget is determined by applying the mandatory and prescriptive requirements of the standard design to the proposed design building. The source energy is the total annual source energy. Exception to Section 150.1(b)1. A community shared solar electric generation system, or other renewable electric generation system, or community shared BESS, which provides dedicated power, utility energy reduction credits, or payments for energy bill reductions to the permitted building and is approved by the Energy Commission as specified in Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-115, may offset part or all of the solar electric generation system and demand flexibility Energy Design Rating required to comply with the Standards, as calculated according to methods established by the Commission in the Residential ACM Reference Manual.
- Compliance demonstration requirements for performance standards. A. Certificate of compliance and application for a building permit. The application for a building permit shall include documentation pursuant to Sections 10-103(a)1 and 10-103(a)2 which demonstrates, using an approved calculation method, that the building has been designed so that its energy consumption does not exceed the standard design energy budgets for the applicable climate zone. Exception to Section 150.1(b)2A Multiple orientation: A permit applicant may demonstrate compliance with the energy budget requirements of Section 150.1(a) and (b) for any orientation of the same building model if the documentation demonstrates that the building model with its proposed designs and features would comply in each of the four cardinal orientations.
B. Field verification. When performance of installed features, materials, components, manufactured devices or systems above the minimum specified in Section 150.1(c) is necessary for the building to comply with Section 150.1(b), or is necessary to achieve a more stringent local ordinance, field verification shall be performed in accordance with the applicable requirements in the following subsections, and the results of the verification(s) shall be documented on applicable certificates of installation pursuant to Section 10-103(a)3 and applicable certificates of verification pursuant to Section 10-103(a)5. i. EER2/SEER2/CEER/HSPF2 Rating. When performance compliance requires installation of a space-conditioning system with a rating that is greater than the minimum rating required by Table 150.1-A or specified for the standard design, the installed system shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures specified in the applicable sections of Reference Residential Appendix RA3.4. ii. **Variable capacity heat pump (VCHP) compliance option.
§ 4.4.2. High relevance — show source text
When performance compliance requires installation of a heat pump system, the heating capacity values at 47°F and 17°F shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.4.4.2. F. Dwelling unit enclosure air leakage. When performance compliance requires a building enclosure leakage rate that is lower than the standard design, the building enclosure shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.8. G. Quality insulation installation (QII). When performance compliance requires field verification of QII, the building insulation system shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.5.
NOTE: Authority: Sections 25213, 25218, 25218.5, 25402 and 25402.1, Public Resources Code . Reference: Sections 25007, 25008, 25218.5, 25310, 25402, 25402.1, 25402.4, 25402.5, 25402.8 and 25943, Public Resources Code .
SECTION 170.2—PRESCRIPTIVE APPROACH
Multifamily buildings, including both dwelling units and common use areas, that comply with the prescriptive standards shall be designed, constructed and equipped to meet all of the requirements for the appropriate climate zone shown in Table 170.2-A. In Table 170.2-A, NA (not allowed) means that feature is not permitted in a particular climate zone and NR (no requirement) means that there is no prescriptive requirement for that feature in a particular climate zone. Installed components shall meet the following requirements:
(a) Envelope component requirements .
- Exterior roofs and ceilings . Exterior roofs and ceilings shall comply with each of the applicable requirements in this subsection:
A. Roofing products. All roofing products shall meet the requirements of Section 110.8 and the applicable minimum aged solar reflectance and thermal emittance requirements of Table 170.2-A. Exception 1 to Section 170.2(a)1A: Roof area covered with building integrated photovoltaic panels and building integrated solar thermal panels are not required to comply with the minimum requirements for solar reflectance and thermal emittance or SRI.
Exception 2 to Section 170.2(a)1A: Roof constructions with a weight of at least 25 lb/ft2 are not required to comply with the minimum requirements for solar reflectance and thermal emittance or SRI. B. Roof insulation. roofs shall have an overall assembly U -factor no greater than the applicable value in Table 170.2-A, meeting i, ii, iii or iv below. Where required by Sections 110.8 and 160.1(a), insulation shall be placed in direct contact with a continuous roof or drywall ceiling. i. Option A: Reserved. ii. Option B: A minimum R -value of insulation installed between the roof rafters in contact with the roof deck and an additional layer of ceiling insulation located between the attic and the conditioned space when meeting Section 170.2(c)3Biia; or iii. Option C: A minimum R -value of ceiling insulation located between the attic and the conditioned space when meeting Section 170.2(c)3Biib. iv. Option D: A minimum U -factor for roof assemblies above conditioned space without attic space. C. Radiant barrier. A radiant barrier required in Table 170.2-A shall meet the requirements specified in Section 110.8(j), and shall meet the installation criteria specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA4 .
- Wall insulation.
§ 4.4.3. High relevance — show source text
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Reference Manual, the system shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.4.4.3. iii. Low leakage air handler. When performance compliance requires installation of a low leakage air-handling unit, the installed air-handling unit shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.1.4.3.9.
iv. Reserved.
v. Heat pump — rated heating capacity. When performance compliance requires installation of a heat pump system, the heating capacity values at 47°F and 17°F shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.4. vi. Whole-house fan. When performance compliance requires installation of a whole-house fan, the whole-house fan ventilation airflow rate and fan efficacy shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.9. vii. Central fan ventilation cooling system. When performance compliance requires installation of a central fan ventilation cooling system, the installed system shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.3.4. viii. Building enclosure air leakage. When performance compliance requires a building enclosure leakage rate that is lower than the standard design, the building enclosure shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.8. ix. Quality Insulation Installation (QII). When performance compliance requires field verification of QII, the building insulation system shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.5.
(c) Prescriptive standards/component packages. Buildings that comply with the prescriptive standards shall be designed, constructed and equipped to meet all of the requirements for the appropriate climate zone shown in Table 150.1-A. In Table 150.1-A, an NA (not allowed) means that feature is not permitted in a particular climate zone and an NR (no requirement) means that there is no prescriptive requirement for that feature in a particular climate zone. Installed components shall meet the following requirements:
- Insulation.
A. Roof and ceiling insulation shall be installed with an R -value equal to or greater than that shown in Table 150.1-A meeting Option i, ii or iii below. i. Option A: Reserved. ii. Option B: A minimum R -value of insulation in a ventilated attic installed between the roof rafters in contact with the roof deck and an additional layer of ceiling insulation located between the attic and the conditioned space when meeting Section 150.1(c)9A; or iii. Option C: A minimum R -value of ceiling insulation located between a ventilated attic and the conditioned space or within a cathedral ceiling assembly shall comply with Section 150.1(c)9B.
B. Walls.
§ 170.2 High relevance — show source text
A. EER2/SEER2/CEER/HSPF2 Rating. When performance compliance requires installation of a space-conditioning system with a rating that is greater than the minimum rating required by Table 170.2-K or specified for the standard
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design, the installed system shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures specified in the applicable sections of Reference Residential Appendix RA3. B. Variable capacity heat pump (VCHP) compliance option. When performance compliance requires installation of a heat pump system that meets all the requirements of the VCHP compliance option specified in the ACM Reference Manual, the system shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.4.4.3.
C. Low leakage air handler. When performance compliance requires installation of a low leakage air-handling unit, the installed air handling unit shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.1.4.3.9. D. Thermal balancing valve. When performance compliance requires installation of thermal balancing valves with variable speed circulation pump(s), the installation shall meet the procedures specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA4.4.3. E. Heat pump—rated heating capacity. When performance compliance requires installation of a heat pump system, the heating capacity values at 47°F and 17°F shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.4.4.2. F. Dwelling unit enclosure air leakage. When performance compliance requires a building enclosure leakage rate that is lower than the standard design, the building enclosure shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.8. G. Quality insulation installation (QII). When performance compliance requires field verification of QII, the building insulation system shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.5.
NOTE: Authority: Sections 25213, 25218, 25218.5, 25402 and 25402.1, Public Resources Code . Reference: Sections 25007, 25008, 25218.5, 25310, 25402, 25402.1, 25402.4, 25402.5, 25402.8 and 25943, Public Resources Code .
SECTION 170.2—PRESCRIPTIVE APPROACH
Multifamily buildings, including both dwelling units and common use areas, that comply with the prescriptive standards shall be designed, constructed and equipped to meet all of the requirements for the appropriate climate zone shown in Table 170.2-A. In Table 170.2-A, NA (not allowed) means that feature is not permitted in a particular climate zone and NR (no requirement) means that there is no prescriptive requirement for that feature in a particular climate zone. Installed components shall meet the following requirements:
(a) Envelope component requirements .
- Exterior roofs and ceilings . Exterior roofs and ceilings shall comply with each of the applicable requirements in this subsection:
§ 0.45 High relevance — show source text
a. 0.45 W/cfm for gas furnace air-handling units; or b. 0.58 W/cfm for air-handling units that are not gas furnaces. iv. Balanced ventilation systems with heat/energy recovery in Climate Zones 1, 2, 4, 11–14, and 16. A balanced ventilation system with heat or energy recovery shall be used to meet Section 160.2(b)2Aivb1, and shall meet the applicable requirements of Item a or b below: a. In Climate Zones 1, 2, 4, 11–14, and 16, balanced ventilation systems serving individual dwelling units shall:
- Be an energy recovery ventilator (ERV) or heat recovery ventilator (HRV),
- Have a minimum sensible recovery efficiency of 67 percent, rated at 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius), and
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- Have a fan efficacy less than or equal to 0.6 W per cfm. These measures shall be confirmed through field verification in accordance with the procedures in RA3.7.4.4 for buildings with three habitable stories or fewer, or the procedures in NA2.2.4.1.5 for buildings with four or more habitable stories.
b. In Climate Zones 1, 2, 4, 11–14, and 16, balanced ventilation systems serving multiple dwelling units in buildings with four or more habitable stories shall:
Be an ERV or HRV,
Have a minimum sensible recovery efficiency or effectiveness of 67 percent, rated at 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius),
Meet the fan power requirements of Section 170.2(c)4A, and
Have recovery bypass or control to directly economize with ventilation air based on outdoor air temperature limits specified in Table 170.2-G.
These measures shall be field verified in accordance with NA7.18.4.
v. In buildings with three habitable stories or fewer in Climate Zones 5–10 and Climate Zone 15, when a heat pump space-conditioning system is installed to meet the requirements of Section 170.2(c)3Ai, balanced ventilation systems without an ERV or HRV shall have a fan efficacy less than or equal to 0.4 W/cfm. vi. Dwelling unit ventilation system requirements. All HRV/ERV systems serving individual dwelling units shall have a fault indicator display (FID) that is manufacturer certified in compliance with the requirements in Joint Appendix JA17.4. The FID certification shall be verified by an ECC-Rater. Exception to Section 170.2(c)3B: The field verification and ECC-Provider data registry requirements of Reference Residential Appendix RA2 and RA3 are not required for multifamily dwelling units in buildings four habitable stories and greater. The installer shall certify that diagnostic testing was performed in accordance with the applicable procedures. C. HVAC system bypass ducts. Bypass ducts that deliver conditioned supply air directly to the space-conditioning system return duct airflow shall not be used. 4. Common use area space-conditioning systems. A building complies with this section by being designed with and having constructed and installed a space-conditioning system that meets the applicable requirements of Subsections A through O. A. Fan systems.
§ 25218.5 High relevance — show source text
(b) Certification Requirements for Manufactured Systems, Equipment, Appliances and Building Components.
- Appliances that are within the scope of Section 1601 of the Appliance Efficiency Regulations shall only be installed if they have been certified to the Energy Commission by the manufacturer, pursuant to the provisions of Title 20 California Code of Regulations, Section 1606; or
- Systems, equipment, appliances and building components that are required by Part 6 or the Reference Appendices to be certified to the Energy Commission, which are not appliances that are within the scope of Section 1601 of the Appliance Efficiency Regulations, shall only be installed if they are certified by the manufacturer in a declaration, executed under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California, that: A. All the information provided pursuant to the certification is true, complete, accurate and in compliance with all applicable requirements of Part 6; and B. The equipment, product, or device was tested using the test procedure specified in Part 6 if applicable
- The certification status of any system, equipment, appliance or building component shall be confirmed only by reference to: A. A directory published or approved by the Commission; or B. A copy of the application for certification from the manufacturer and the letter of acceptance from the Commission staff; or C. Written confirmation from the publisher of a Commission-approved directory that a device has been certified; or D. A Commission-approved label on the device.
Note: Part 6 does not require a builder, designer, owner, operator, or enforcing agency to test any certified device to determine its compliance with minimum specifications or efficiencies adopted by the Commission.
Note: Authority: Sections 25213, 25218, 25218.5, 25402 and 25402.1, Public Resources Code . Reference: Sections 25007, 25008, 25218.5, 25310, 25402, 25402.1, 25402.4, 25402.5
, 25402.8, and 25943, Public Resources Code.SECTION 110.1—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR APPLIANCES
(a) Any appliance regulated by the Appliance Efficiency Regulations, Title 20 California Code of Regulations, Section 1601 et seq., may be installed only if the appliance fully complies with Section 1608(a) of those regulations.
(b) Except for those circumstances described in Section 110.1(c), conformance with efficiency levels required to comply with Part 6 mandatory, prescriptive and performance standards shall be verified utilizing data from either:
- The Energy Commission’s database of certified appliances maintained pursuant to Title 20 California Code of Regulations Section 1606, and which is available at: www.energy.ca.gov/appliances/database/ ; or
- An equivalent directory published by a federal agency; or
- An approved trade association directory as defined in Title 20 California Code of Regulations Section 1606(h).
(c) Conformance with efficiency levels required to comply with Part 6 mandatory, prescriptive and performance standards shall be demonstrated either by default to the mandatory efficiency levels specified in Part 6 or by following procedures approved by the Commission pursuant to Section 10-109 of Title 24, Part 1, when:
- Data to verify conformance with efficiency levels required to comply with Part 6 mandatory, prescriptive and performance standards is not available pursuant to subdivision (b); or
- Field verification and diagnostic testing is required for compliance with Part 6 and the Energy Commission has not approved a field verification and diagnostic test protocol that is applicable to the appliance; or
§ 150.1 High relevance — show source text
viii. Building enclosure air leakage. When performance compliance requires a building enclosure leakage rate that is lower than the standard design, the building enclosure shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.8. ix. Quality Insulation Installation (QII). When performance compliance requires field verification of QII, the building insulation system shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.5.
(c) Prescriptive standards/component packages. Buildings that comply with the prescriptive standards shall be designed, constructed and equipped to meet all of the requirements for the appropriate climate zone shown in Table 150.1-A. In Table 150.1-A, an NA (not allowed) means that feature is not permitted in a particular climate zone and an NR (no requirement) means that there is no prescriptive requirement for that feature in a particular climate zone. Installed components shall meet the following requirements:
- Insulation.
A. Roof and ceiling insulation shall be installed with an R -value equal to or greater than that shown in Table 150.1-A meeting Option i, ii or iii below. i. Option A: Reserved. ii. Option B: A minimum R -value of insulation in a ventilated attic installed between the roof rafters in contact with the roof deck and an additional layer of ceiling insulation located between the attic and the conditioned space when meeting Section 150.1(c)9A; or iii. Option C: A minimum R -value of ceiling insulation located between a ventilated attic and the conditioned space or within a cathedral ceiling assembly shall comply with Section 150.1(c)9B.
B. Walls.
i. Framed exterior walls shall be insulated such that the exterior wall has an assembly U -factor equal to or less than that shown in Table 150.1-A. The U -factors shown are maximum U -factors for the exterior wall assembly. ii. Mass walls above grade and below grade shall be insulated such that the wall has an assembly U -factor equal to or less than that shown in Table 150.1-A, or walls shall be insulated with continuous insulation that has an R value equal to or greater than that shown in Table 150.1-A. “Interior” denotes continuous insulation installed on the inside surface of the wall, and “exterior” denotes continuous insulation installed on the outside surface of the wall.
iii. Other unframed exterior walls, excluding mass walls, shall meet the requirements for framed walls shown in Table 150.1-A.
C. Raised floors shall be insulated such that the floor assembly has an assembly U -factor equal to or less than shown in Table 150.1-A, or shall be insulated between wood framing with insulation having an R- value equal to or greater than that shown in Table 150.1-A.
Exception to Section 150.1(c)1C: Raised-floor insulation may be omitted if the foundation walls are insulated to meet the wall insulation minimums shown in Table 150.1-A, and a vapor retarder is placed over the entire floor of the crawl space, and the vents are fitted with automatically operated louvers, and the requirements of Reference Residential Appendix RA4.5.1 are met. D. Slab floor perimeter insulation shall be installed with a U -factor equal to or less than, or R -value equal to or greater than, shown in Table 150.1-A.
§ 110.1 High relevance — show source text
SECTION 110.1—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR APPLIANCES
(a) Any appliance regulated by the Appliance Efficiency Regulations, Title 20 California Code of Regulations, Section 1601 et seq., may be installed only if the appliance fully complies with Section 1608(a) of those regulations.
(b) Except for those circumstances described in Section 110.1(c), conformance with efficiency levels required to comply with Part 6 mandatory, prescriptive and performance standards shall be verified utilizing data from either:
- The Energy Commission’s database of certified appliances maintained pursuant to Title 20 California Code of Regulations Section 1606, and which is available at: www.energy.ca.gov/appliances/database/ ; or
- An equivalent directory published by a federal agency; or
- An approved trade association directory as defined in Title 20 California Code of Regulations Section 1606(h).
(c) Conformance with efficiency levels required to comply with Part 6 mandatory, prescriptive and performance standards shall be demonstrated either by default to the mandatory efficiency levels specified in Part 6 or by following procedures approved by the Commission pursuant to Section 10-109 of Title 24, Part 1, when:
- Data to verify conformance with efficiency levels required to comply with Part 6 mandatory, prescriptive and performance standards is not available pursuant to subdivision (b); or
- Field verification and diagnostic testing is required for compliance with Part 6 and the Energy Commission has not approved a field verification and diagnostic test protocol that is applicable to the appliance; or
- The appliance meets the requirements of Section 110.1(a) but has been site-modified in a way that affects its performance; or
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ALL OCCUPANCIES—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MANUFACTURE, CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION OF SYSTEMS, EQUIPMENT AND BUILDING COMPONENTS
- The U.S. Department of Energy has approved a waiver from federal test procedures, pursuant to 10 CFR Section 430.27 or Section 431.401 and that waiver fails to specify how the efficiency of the system shall be determined.
Note: Authority: Sections 25213, 25218, 25218.5, 25402 and 25402.1, Public Resources Code . Reference: Sections 25007, 25008, 25218.5, 25310, 25402, 25402.1, 25402.4, 25402.5
, 25402.8, and 25943, Public Resources Code.SECTION 110.2—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR SPACE-CONDITIONING EQUIPMENT
Certification by manufacturers. Any space-conditioning equipment listed in this section may be installed only if the manufacturer has certified to the Commission that the equipment complies with all the applicable requirements of this section.
(a) Efficiency. Equipment shall meet the applicable efficiency requirements in Tables 110.2-A through 110.2-L, subject to the following:
- If more than one efficiency standard is listed for any equipment in Tables 110.2-A through 110.2-L, the equipment shall meet all the applicable standards that are listed; and
- If more than one test method is listed in Tables 110.2-A through 110.2-L, the equipment shall comply with the applicable efficiency standard when tested with each listed test method; and
§ 2.2 High relevance — show source text
The ECC-Rater shall verify the charge using Sections RA3.2.2 and RA3.3 or approved alternatives in Section RA1. Exception 1 to Section 150.1(c)7Aic: When the outdoor temperature is less than 55°F and the installer utilizes the weigh-in charging procedure in Reference Residential Appendix Section RA3.2.3.1 to verify the refrigerant charge, the installer may elect to utilize the verification procedure in Reference Residential Appendix Section RA3.2.3.2. If the verification procedure in Section RA3.2.3.2 is used for compliance, the system's thermostat shall conform to the specifications in Section 110.12. Ducted systems shall comply with minimum system airflow rate requirement in Section 150.1(c)7Aib. ii. Air-cooled air conditioners and air-source heat pumps, including but not limited to ducted split systems, ducted packaged systems, small duct high-velocity systems and mini-split systems, which are of a type that cannot be verified using the specified procedures, with the requirements of Section 150.1(c)7Ai shall comply with Subsections a and b, as applicable. a. The installer shall confirm the refrigerant charge using the weigh-in charging procedure specified in Reference Residential Appendix Section RA3.2.3.1, as verified by an ECC-Rater according to the procedures specified in Reference Residential Appendix Section RA3.2.3.2.; and b. Systems that utilize forced air ducts shall comply with the minimum system airflow rate requirement in Section 150.1(c)7Aib provided the system is of a type that can be verified using the procedures in Section RA3.3 or an approved alternative procedure in Section RA1.
Exception 1 to Section 150.1(c)7A: Packaged systems for which the manufacturer has verified correct system refrigerant charge prior to shipment from the factory are not required to have refrigerant charge confirmed through field verification and diagnostic testing. The installer of these packaged systems shall certify on the Certificate of Installation that the packaged system was pre-charged at the factory and has not been altered in a way that would affect the charge. Ducted systems shall comply with minimum system airflow rate requirements in Section 150.1(c)7Aib, provided that the system is of a type that can be verified using the procedure specified in Section RA3.3 or an approved alternative in Section RA1.
- Domestic water-heating systems. Water-heating systems shall meet the requirements of A, B or C, or shall meet the performance compliance requirements of Section 150.1(b)1. For recirculation distribution systems, only demand recirculation systems with manual on/off control as specified in the Reference Appendix RA4.4.9 shall be used: A. A single 240 volt heat pump water heater (HPWH). The storage tank shall be located in the garage or conditioned space. In addition, meet the following: i. A compact hot water distribution system that is field verified as specified in the Reference Appendix RA4.4.6 in Climate Zones 1 and 16; and
ii. A drain water heat recovery system that is field verified as specified in the Reference Appendix RA3.6.9 in Climate Zone 16.
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§ 150.1 High relevance — show source text
Exception 1 to Section 150.1(c)7A: Packaged systems for which the manufacturer has verified correct system refrigerant charge prior to shipment from the factory are not required to have refrigerant charge confirmed through field verification and diagnostic testing. The installer of these packaged systems shall certify on the Certificate of Installation that the packaged system was pre-charged at the factory and has not been altered in a way that would affect the charge. Ducted systems shall comply with minimum system airflow rate requirements in Section 150.1(c)7Aib, provided that the system is of a type that can be verified using the procedure specified in Section RA3.3 or an approved alternative in Section RA1.
- Domestic water-heating systems. Water-heating systems shall meet the requirements of A, B or C, or shall meet the performance compliance requirements of Section 150.1(b)1. For recirculation distribution systems, only demand recirculation systems with manual on/off control as specified in the Reference Appendix RA4.4.9 shall be used: A. A single 240 volt heat pump water heater (HPWH). The storage tank shall be located in the garage or conditioned space. In addition, meet the following: i. A compact hot water distribution system that is field verified as specified in the Reference Appendix RA4.4.6 in Climate Zones 1 and 16; and
ii. A drain water heat recovery system that is field verified as specified in the Reference Appendix RA3.6.9 in Climate Zone 16.
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SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS—PERFORMANCE AND PRESCRIPTIVE COMPLIANCE APPROACHES
B. A single 240 volt HPWH that meets the requirements of NEEA Advanced Water Heater Specification Tier 3 or higher. In addition, for Climate Zone 16, a drain water heat recovery system that is field verified as specified in Reference Appendix RA3.6.9 and the storage tank shall be located in the garage or conditioned space. C. A solar water-heating system with electric backup meeting the installation criteria specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA4 and with a minimum annual solar savings fraction of 0.7. Exception 1 to Section 150.1(c)8: An electric water heater with point of use distribution as specified in RA4.4.5 may be installed for new dwelling units with a conditioned floor area of 500 square feet or less. Exception 2 to Section 150.1(c)8A and B: A 120V HPWH may be installed in place of a 240V HPWH for new dwelling unit with one bedroom or fewer.
- Space-conditioning distribution systems. All space-conditioning systems shall meet all applicable requirements of A or B below:
A. High performance attics. Air handlers or ducts are allowed to be in ventilated attic spaces when the roof and ceiling insulation level meet Option B in Table 150.1-A. Duct insulation levels shall meet the requirements in Table 150.1-A. B. Duct systems and air handlers of HVAC systems shall be located entirely in conditioned space and confirmed through field verification and diagnostic testing to meet the criterion of Reference Residential Appendix Section RA3.1.4.3.8. Duct insulation levels shall meet the requirements in Table 150.1-A. For dwelling units with attics, the duct system and air handlers of HVAC systems shall be located below the ceiling separating the occupiable space from the attic.
§ 150.2 High relevance — show source text
Exception to Section 150.2(b)1Diib: Duct sealing. Existing duct systems that are extended, which are constructed, insulated or sealed with asbestos.
c. Altered ducts and duct system components in garage spaces. When new or replacement space-conditioning ducts, air-handling units, cooling or heating coils, or plenums are located in a garage space, compliance with either I or II below is required. I. The measured system duct leakage shall be less than or equal to 6 percent of system air handler airflow as determined utilizing the procedures in Reference Residential Appendix Section RA3.1.4.3.1; or II. All accessible leaks located in the garage space shall be sealed and verified through a visual inspection and a smoke test by a certified ECC-Rater utilizing the methods specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.1.4.3.5. E. Altered space-conditioning system—duct sealing. In all climate zones, when a space-conditioning system serving a single-family dwelling is altered by the installation or replacement of space-conditioning system equipment, including replacement of the air handler, outdoor condensing unit of a split system air conditioner or heat pump, or cooling or heating coil, the duct system that is connected to the altered space-conditioning system equipment shall be sealed, as confirmed through field verification and diagnostic testing in accordance with the applicable procedures for duct sealing of altered existing duct systems as specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.1, and the leakage compliance criteria specified in Subsection i, ii, or iii below. Additionally, when altered ducts, air-handling units, cooling or heating coils, or plenums are located in garage spaces, the system shall comply with Section 150.2(b)1Diic regardless of the length of any new or replacement space-conditioning ducts installed in the garage space. i. The measured duct leakage shall be equal to or less than 10 percent of system air handler airflow as determined utilizing the procedures in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.1.4.3.1; or ii. The measured duct leakage to outside shall be equal to or less than 7 percent of system air handler airflow as determined utilizing the procedures in Reference Residential Appendix Section RA3.1.4.3.4; or iii. If it is not possible to meet the duct sealing requirements of either Section 150.2(b)1Ei or 150.2(b)1Eii, then all accessible leaks shall be sealed and verified through a visual inspection and a smoke test by a certified ECCRater utilizing the methods specified in Reference Residential Appendix Section RA3.1.4.3.5. Exception 1 to Section 150.2(b)1E: Duct sealing. Duct systems that are documented to have been previously sealed as confirmed through field verification and diagnostic testing in accordance with procedures in the Reference Residential Appendix RA3.1. Exception 2 to Section 150.2(b)1E: Duct sealing. Duct systems with less than 40 linear feet as determined by visual inspection. Exception 3 to Section 150.2(b)1E: Duct sealing. Existing duct systems constructed, insulated or sealed with asbestos.
§ 0.45 High relevance — show source text
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SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS— MANDATORY FEATURES AND DEVICES
B. Single zone central forced air systems. Demonstrate, in every control mode, airflow greater than or equal to 350 CFM per ton of nominal cooling capacity through the return grilles, and an air-handling unit fan efficacy less than or equal to the maximum W/CFM specified in Subsections i or ii below. The airflow rate and fan efficacy requirements in this section shall be confirmed by field verification and diagnostic testing in accordance with the procedures given in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.3. i. 0.45 W/CFM for gas furnace air-handling units. ii. 0.58 W/CFM for air-handling units that are not gas furnaces. C. Zonally controlled central forced air systems. Zonally controlled central forced air cooling systems shall be capable of simultaneously delivering, in every zonal control mode, an airflow from the dwelling, through the air handler fan and delivered to the dwelling, of greater than or equal to 350 cfm per ton of nominal cooling capacity, and operating at an air-handling unit fan efficacy of less than or equal to the maximum W/CFM specified in Subsections i or ii below. The airflow rate and fan efficacy requirements in this section shall be confirmed by field verification and diagnostic testing in accordance with the applicable procedures specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.3. i. 0.45 W/CFM for gas furnace air-handling units. ii. 0.58 W/CFM for air-handling units that are not gas furnaces. D. Small duct high velocity forced air systems. Demonstrate, in every control mode, airflow greater than or equal to 250 CFM per ton of nominal cooling capacity through the return grilles, and an air-handling unit fan efficacy less than or equal to 0.62 W/CFM as confirmed by field verification and diagnostic testing in accordance with the procedures given in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.3. Exception 1 to Section 150.0(m)13B and D: Standard ducted systems (without zoning dampers) may comply by meeting the applicable requirements in Table 150.0-B or 150.0-C as confirmed by field verification and diagnostic testing in accordance with the procedures in Reference Residential Appendix Sections RA3.1.4.4 and RA3.1.4.5. The design clean-filter pressure drop requirements specified by Section 150.0(m)12Div for the system air filter(s) shall conform to the requirements given in Tables 150.0-B and 150.0-C. Exception 2 to Section 150.0(m)13B and D: Multispeed compressor systems or variable speed compressor systems shall verify air flow (cfm/ton) and fan efficacy (Watt/cfm) for system operation at the maximum compressor speed and the maximum air handler fan speed. Exception 3 to Section 150.0(m)13B: Gas furnace air-handling units manufactured prior to July 3, 2019 shall comply with a fan efficacy value less than or equal to 0.58 w/cfm as confirmed by field verification and diagnostic testing in accordance with the procedures given in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.3.
Frequently asked questions
Who must sign or file the verification results?
The installer (and where required by the RA procedure, an ECC‑Rater or other certified verifier) must complete the applicable Certificates of Installation and Certificates of Verification specified in Section 10‑103; those certificates are the required record for the enforcement agency.
If I install equipment that exceeds prescriptive efficiency but don’t rely on it in the model, do I still have to field verify?
No. The Code triggers field verification when the performance compliance demonstration depends on installed performance above the minimum. If you choose not to take credit for the higher performance in the model, the specific RA field verification triggered by the performance approach would not be required — but the equipment must still meet any other mandatory or appliance certification requirements.
Can a manufacturer’s certified label replace on‑site testing?
Only in limited situations described in the Code (for example certain packaged systems that are factory pre‑charged). In cases where the performance approach relies on the device’s superior performance, the Code generally requires the specified RA field verification (unless a listed exception applies).
For multifamily buildings, when can the installer simply certify rather than using ECC‑Rater testing?
For multifamily dwelling units in buildings four habitable stories or greater some RA field verification and ECC‑Provider registry requirements are excepted; the installer may certify that the diagnostic testing was performed per the applicable procedures. Check the multifamily exceptions in the Code and the RA for the exact scope.
Where do I find the step‑by‑step test methods (test pressures, instrumentation, pass/fail limits)?
The Code points you to the Reference Residential Appendices (for example RA3.4, RA3.8, RA3.1.4.3.9, RA3.9, etc.). Use the specific RA subsection cited by the Code for each equipment or performance item — those appendices contain the required instrumentation, procedures, and acceptance criteria.
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- Envelope construction, insulation, fenestration and thermal performance
- HVAC systems, ventilation rates, ducting, controls and testing
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- Mandatory measures, appliance efficiency and certification requirements
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