CRES study plan

Define and correctly distinguish conduction, convection, and radiation, then compute steady-state heat flow through a simple wall assembly using U-value and delta-T.

Calculate R-value and U-value conversions for a layered assembly, including series and parallel (framing) paths, and explain thermal bridging effects numerically.

Explain the three modes of moisture transport (bulk, capillary, vapor diffusion) and identify which drives problems in walls, roofs, and foundations.

Describe how air leakage interacts with insulation performance and stack/pressure effects in a house, using pressure, temperature, and neutral pressure plane concepts.

Interpret psychrometric chart points for indoor and outdoor design conditions and state dew point implications for a given surface temperature.

Sequence a full home energy assessment walkthrough from intake to report, listing what is measured, recorded, and photographed at each stage.

Perform and interpret a blower door test: set up equipment, apply the 50 Pa convention, calculate CFM50 to CFMnatural conversions, and estimate leakage area.

Explain and apply pressure diagnostics including zonal pressure testing, duct leakage to outside, and interpreting gauges during a walkthrough.

Compute a simple annual energy use estimate from utility bill data and normalize for weather using heating and cooling degree days.

Diagnose at least three common test anomalies (windy-day baseline error, open interior door, unsealed duct) and state the corrective action for each.

Compare insulation materials by R-value per inch, air permeability, moisture behavior, and appropriate application location.

Evaluate wall and roof assemblies for vapor control strategy, including where to place vapor retarders and why interior vs exterior placement changes.

Identify and design corrective details for thermal bridging at rim joists, cantilevers, window headers, and slab edges.

Specify air sealing and insulation sequencing for attics (venting, baffles, hatch, knee walls) and crawlspaces (encapsulation vs vented).

Assess foundation insulation options (interior, exterior, slab) for moisture and termite considerations and select an appropriate approach.

Trace the refrigeration cycle and explain how each component (compressor, condenser, metering device, evaporator) affects capacity and efficiency.

Interpret efficiency metrics: SEER2, HSPF2, AFUE, COP, and EER, and calculate operating cost comparisons from them.

Evaluate duct system design factors including static pressure, friction rate, return sizing, and leakage, and propose a correction for an undersized or leaky duct run.

Compare equipment options (single-stage vs variable-speed, heat pump vs furnace, mini-split vs central) for a given house and climate, stating tradeoffs.

Explain combustion appliance venting categories, draft, and the role of make-up air in a tightened house.

Map the air barrier and thermal boundary through a whole house on a single diagram, marking penetrations and discontinuities.

Prioritize air sealing work by cost-effectiveness and durability, listing attic, rim joist, and penetration strategies with specific materials.

Diagnose a moisture failure case (condensation on a cold surface, bulk water intrusion, or trapped vapor) and prescribe a corrective sequence.

Explain vapor retarder classes and select an appropriate class for three different assemblies and climates.

Describe drainage plane, flashing, and rain screen principles for walls and roofs and identify where a given detail fails.

Perform combustion safety testing steps: draft measurement, spillage check, CO measurement, and gas leak detection, and state pass/fail criteria.

Explain the causes and health effects of CO, and describe the role of ambient CO monitors versus personal monitors during assessments.

Identify indoor air quality risks including mold, radon, VOCs, and asbestos/lead in older homes, and state the required response and referral.

Apply worker safety practices for attics, crawlspaces, confined spaces, electrical, and PPE selection.

Apply the ASHRAE 62.2 ventilation framework conceptually to size a mechanical ventilation strategy for a tightened house.

Explain how a residential energy model works: inputs, assumptions, calibration to utility bills, and sources of error.

Compare prescriptive versus performance compliance paths and identify where each is appropriate.

Identify the purpose and major requirements of energy codes and voluntary programs (IECC, ENERGY STAR, HERS index, weatherization program rules) without confusing their scopes.

Interpret a sample energy model output and translate predicted savings into a customer-facing savings range with stated uncertainty.

Locate and use code and program requirement language to answer a compliance question for a specified measure.

Build a scope-of-work document that separates recommended measures by cost, savings, and priority, and states assumptions explicitly.

Draft and role-play a customer conversation explaining blower door results and a recommended measure without jargon or overselling.

Handle three common objections (cost, skepticism about savings, concern about disruption) with factual, non-pressuring responses.

Complete a timed 60-question mixed-domain practice set and review every missed item to its underlying concept.

Create a one-page personal reference sheet of formulas, thresholds, and definitions you will review before exam day.