Why HERS Verification Matters for Your HVAC System (80 to 90% Contractors Miss It)

Frank Gleason

Understanding HERS Testing: The Third-Party Checkup Your HVAC System Really Needs

If you’re installing a new HVAC system in Orange County—whether it’s a furnace, air conditioner, heat pump, or ductwork—there’s one critical step that often gets overlooked: HERS verification. At Air Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning, we see this missed constantly, and it can lead to comfort issues, higher utility bills, and even failed permits. Approximately 80-90% of contractors do not comply and miss having a permit.

 

So let’s break down what HERS testing is, why it's required, and why skipping it can cost you far more in the long run.

What Is HERS Verification?

HERS stands for Home Energy Rating System, and a HERS Rater is a certified third‑party inspector who verifies that your HVAC installation meets California’s stringent energy-efficiency and safety standards.

They’re not part of the HVAC company and not part of the city. Their entire job is to make sure the work was done correctly, safely, and according to California Title 24 requirements.

What Does a HERS Rater Check?

A HERS inspection typically includes:

  • Duct leakage testing – Ensures your ducts aren’t wasting energy or losing conditioned air into the attic.
  • Airflow verification – Confirms your system is moving the right amount of air to cool and heat effectively.
  • Refrigerant charge testing – Makes sure refrigerant levels are correct for efficiency and equipment life.
  • Fan watt draw – Ensures your blower motor is operating at the proper energy usage.
  • Thermostat compliance – Verifies installation of a Title 24–approved smart thermostat when required.

These aren’t “extras” or upgrades—they’re part of California’s energy code. And for new systems, your permit cannot close without passing HERS verification.

Why Is HERS Verification So Important?

Many homeowners assume a new HVAC system automatically works at peak performance. Unfortunately, even high‑end equipment like American Standard or Mitsubishi ductless systems can underperform if they’re not installed and charged properly.

HERS testing ensures:

  • Your system is safe – Poor airflow or incorrect refrigerant levels can damage equipment.
  • You get the efficiency you paid for – Without proper verification, your system may use more energy than it should.
  • You get full comfort – Airflow balance is one of the biggest factors in fixing hot/cold spots.
  • Your permit closes – Cities across Orange County require a passed HERS inspection before signing off the job.

Why Do So Many Homeowners Skip It?

Most people skip HERS verification simply because:

  • They don’t know it’s required
  • Their contractor didn’t mention it
  • They didn’t pull a permit (or didn’t know they needed to)
  • They assume it’s unnecessary if the system “seems to work”

The problem? Skipping HERS puts your comfort, your warranty, and your home’s energy certification at risk.

At Air Concepts, We Do It the Right Way

As a trusted HVAC contractor in Anaheim and across Orange County, we handle your installation the right way: with proper permitting, code‑compliant work, and third‑party HERS testing every time it’s required.

We want your system running exactly the way it was designed—efficiently, safely, and reliably. HERS verification is a key part of making sure that happens.

Need help understanding HERS testing or planning a code‑compliant HVAC upgrade?

We’re here to help homeowners make informed decisions without the pressure. Whether you're installing a new air conditioner, heat pump, furnace, or ductless mini split, our team will walk you through each step—including HERS—so there are no surprises.

Air Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning
Anaheim, CA
(714) 779-1000
airconcepts.com