Written and Compiled by Rex Britton, John Conley, Ted Haskell, Rod Street

In cooperation with PGE

Manual Contact: 1-866-365-3526

May 1, 2009

HOME ENERGY SOLUTIONS

Weatherization Specification Manual

INTRODUCTION

 

IN 1.0—Program Goals and Eligibility

The intent of Energy Trust of Oregon's weatherization program is to assist homeowners and renters save energy and increase home comfort through the installation of cost-effective weatherization improvements. Only Oregon dwellings whose primary heat energy is provided by Portland General Electric, Pacific Power, NW Natural and Cascade Natural Gas shall be eligible for Energy Trust services and incentives. In order to be considered a "complete measure" and qualify for an incentive, the installed measure must meet the installation specifications defined in this manual and the requirements detailed in the current program incentive brochure. The introduction of each section of this manual defines the requirements for achieving a complete measure. These specifications will not cover every situation. If you have questions, call the Trade Ally Coordinator at 1-866-365-3526 ext. 9, and a program field technician will provide support.

IN 1.1—Code Compliance

In cases where a federal, state or local code or regulation exceeds the requirements herein, that code or regulation shall apply. If the federal, state or local code or regulation does not exceed the requirements herein, then the requirements contained in this specification manual shall apply.

IN 1.2—Documenting Installed Measures

Contractors are encouraged to post the "Completed Measures Certificate" at the electrical box or other permanent location approved by homeowner as a record of work performed. Contractors are also encouraged to add their logo and phone number to the certificate. Contact the Trade Ally Coordinator at or 1-866-365-3526 ext. 9 to order certificates.

IN 1.3—Materials

Materials used in the Home Energy Solutions (HES) weatherization program shall meet or exceed applicable local, state and federal codes and regulations. Materials, including manufacturer's installation instructions, which do not conform to HES guidelines, shall not be eligible for HES incentives. HES does not keep a list of approved products. Adherence to applicable codes and regulations is the responsibility of the contractor or building owner. HES reserves the right to refuse the use of materials and supplies it deems unacceptable.

IN 1.4—Inspections and Inspection Process

After weatherization measures are installed, an inspection may be required to verify compliance with HES specifications. If the installed weatherization measures do not meet these specifications, HES will notify the customer and contractor of the deficiencies, and follow-up with the contractor to perform corrections. However, HES does not guarantee either energy savings or performance of the installations under this program. Nor does HES assume responsibility for enforcing or determining compliance with codes and regulations, or their interpretation. The inspection is limited to measures or sections of measures that are reasonably visible from normal access locations. A reasonable effort will be made to see a representative section of the measure.

Although HES will work with both the customer and contractor, it is the responsibility of the customer to see that any deficiencies are brought up to these specifications in order to qualify for incentives or financing.

IN 1.5—Waivers for Unusual Conditions

When unusual conditions exist, HES may waive certain provisions of the weatherization specifications, or may substitute a different standard or method. The purpose of the waiver is to identify unusual conditions before work begins. Such waivers require pre-approval by HES.

The contractor must either fill out and submit a program waiver form in advance, and fax it to 1-866-516-7592, or call one of the numbers listed below to get in touch with a program representative. While on the phone, the representative can approve the waiver, then complete necessary waiver information and fax a copy to the contractor's company.

Waiver contact numbers:

Trade Ally/Quality Control Manager, 503-715-2301
Trade Ally Coordinator, 1-866-365-3526 ext. 9

IN 1.6—Illustrations

Illustrations in this specification are part of the HES specifications.

IN 1.7—Human Contact Areas

Insulation installed and receiving an incentive from the HES program in attics, basements, garages, storage areas, or other areas where occupants go for routine maintenance or storage (Human Contact Areas), shall be covered with a vapor permeable air barrier to limit occupant exposure to insulation fibers. Unless a barrier exists (such as a ½" gypsum board), fiberglass insulation shall be covered with a vapor permeable air barrier. Vertical and overhead surfaces containing fiberglass insulation, in areas that are routinely accessed by building occupants, shall also be covered. All covering shall meet applicable codes.