PHIUS CPHC Certification - Exam #1 Quizzes
The ASHRAE/IECC climate zones in the U.S. are numbered from ____________ (warmest), to ____________ (coldest). 1. B, A, 8, 2, 1, or 7 2. 8, 1, A, 7, 3, or B
- 1 - 8
The ASHRAE/IECC climate zones are labeled with ____________ for moist zones, ____________ for dry zones, and ____________ for marine zones. 1. A, Water, or 1 2. 2, B, or Fish 3. Sand, 2, or C
- A - B - C
What are the three vapor retarder levels, what are their perm levels, and what is the level of their permeability?
- Class I = 0.1 perms or less (very low permeability) - Class II = Greater than 0.1 perms and less than or equal to 1 perms (low permeability) - Class III = Greater than 1 perms and less than or equal to 10 perms (medium permeability) - Class IV = does not exist
What are the vapor control layer classifications?
- Class I = Impermeable - Class II = Semi-Impermeable - Class III = Semi-Permeable - None = Permeable
What are some example types of vapor control layers per classification?
- Class I = sheet polyethylene, sheet metal, non-perforated aluminum foil, foil-faced insulation sheathing. - Class II = kraft-faced fiberglass batts, low-perm paint, unfaced expanded polystyrene, fiber-faced polyisocyanurate. - Class III = latex paint, enamel paint, building paper, plywood
Which 3 of the following are reasons to install structural sheathing vertically? Select one or more: a. Create an effective air barrier. b. Create an effective vapor retarder. c. Support every inch of sheathing joints by framing. d. Optimize the strength of the framed wall.
- Create an effective air barrier. - Support every inch of sheathing joints by framing. - Optimize the strength of the framed wall.
In the peak load calculation, ____________ characterizes climate. In the annual heat demand calculation, ____________ characterizes climate. 1. Cpp, Gt, Psi, Delta t, ft, or U 2. Psi, U, Cpp, Delta t, ft or Gt
- Delta t - Gt
Which of these items must be completed by the PHIUS+ Rater during the QA/QC site visit process? (Select all that apply) - Final ventilation flow and balance testing. - Complete project QA workbook and corresponding program checklists - Visual inspection of insulation and air barrier, AND/OR - Final enclosure air tightness testing.
- Final ventilation flow and balance testing. - Complete project QA workbook and corresponding program checklists - Visual inspection of insulation and air barrier. - Final enclosure air tightness testing.
An air space located on the outer side of foam insulation will protect the foam from ____________ and ____________. 1. High Temperature UV degradation, OR Vapor drive 2. Bulk Water Off-gassing, OR Air leakage
- High Temperature - Bulk Water
Which of the following are effective shading strategies for south-facing windows? (Select all that apply) Select one or more: a. Vertical fin shading b. Horizontal awnings above the window c. Solar screens d. Exterior louvered shutters
- Horizontal awnings above the window - Solar screens - Exterior louvered shutters
Select all that are common problems with passive solar buildings. - Overheating in summer - Excessive heat loss in winter - Overcooling of the thermal mass in winter, AND/OR - Glare and fabric bleaching
- Overheating in summer - Excessive heat loss in winter, AND - Glare and fabric bleaching
Which of the following factors are used to determine the overall thermal resistance of a window unit? Select one or more: a. Psi-value of the rough opening b. Psi-value of the spacer c. U-factor of the glass d. U-factor of the frame
- Psi-value of the spacer. - U-factor of the glass. - U-factor of the frame.
Of the PHIUS+ criteria, both the ____________ and ____________ are independent of building climate. 1. - Source Energy - Seasonal Cooling Demand - Building Orientation, OR - Annual Heating Demand 2. - Solar Gain - Air-Tightness Requirement, OR - Peak Heating Load
- Source Energy - Air-Tightness Requirement
What must the CPHC do before PHIUS will begin reviewing the project's design for pre-certification? (select two) Select one or more: a. Update the project's public listing in the PHIUS database. b. Add the project into the review queue. c. Request project feedback document from PHIUS. d. Update the project's energy model and documentation, OR e. Upload the project's initial WUFI Passive energy model and supporting documentation.
- Upload the project's initial WUFI Passive energy model and supporting documentation. - Add the project into the review queue.
Which of the following values are part of the NFRC Rating system? (select 3) Select one or more: a. Visible transmittance. b. Solar heat gain coefficient. c. Shading coefficient. d. Visible transmittance.
- Visible transmittance. - Solar heat gain coefficient. - Visible transmittance.
Fill in the correct labels on the psychometric chart. 1. Wet Bulb Temperature, Wet Point Temperature, or Relative Humidity 2. Ambient Temperature, Material Temperature, or Dry Bulb Temperature 3. Humidity Ratio, Wet Bulb Ratio, Enthalpy Ratio
- Wet Bulb Temperature - Dry Bulb Temperature - Humidity Ratio
Infrared must be taken of ____________ and ____________ during the field verification process. 1. - each unique insulated assembly - the blower door test, OR - the mechanical ventilation unit and, 2. - the blower door test - window installation details, OR - the exhaust ventilation ports
- each unique insulated assembly - window installation details
What is the absolute humidity shown in this bar chart? Select one: a. None of these answers. b. 0.003 c. 0.002 d. 0.016
0.003
A whole-window U-factor of ______________ (BTU/ft2.hr.F) would be both practical and sufficient for most cold North American climates. - 0.25 - 0.35 - 0.15 - 0.05
0.15
Selecting windows with a SHGC of ______________ would be near optimal and also practical for a project in a hot sunny climate. - 1.25 - 0.25 - 0.50 - 0.05
0.25
Which of the following SHGCs is appropriate and practical for a window in a wall that is designed to collect solar energy? Select one: a. 0.85 b. 0.75 c. 0.5 d. 0.25
0.5
Match the photo to the label. - Non-structural panels - Panelized commercial retrofit - Structural double wall - Structural Insulated Panel - Modular building segment - Larsen truss attached to interior structural wall
1. Panelized commercial retrofit 2. Modular building segment 3. Structural Insulated Panel 4. Larsen truss attached to interior structural wall
A typical WRB will be in the range of ______________ perms. - 0.01 - 0.1 - 0.1 - 1 - 1 - 10 - 10 - 100
10 - 100
PHIUS+ requires a separation distance of ______________ between the ventilation intake and any known contamination source. - 2 feet - 10 feet - 4 feet - 3 feet
10 feet
What is the approximate enthalpy change in Btu/lb between state points 1 and 2? Select one: a. 20 b. 0 c. 60 d. 14
14
An average energy factor for a high performance heat pump water heater would range from ______________. - 1.2 - 2.0 - 0.8 - 1.0 - 3.8 - 4.5 - 2.0 - 3.4
2.0 - 3.4
For a very efficient air-source heat pump, heating COP (coefficient of performance) of ______________ is a reasonable expectation. - 7-8 - 0-1 - 1-2 - 3-4
3-4
Roughly ______________ of annual site electricity use is typical for a large passive house. - 1000 kilowatt-hours - 5,000 kilowatt-hours - 20,000 kilowatt-hours - 100,000 kilowatt-hours
5,000 kilowatt-hours
Air and water typically constitute ____________ % of soil volume. - < 5 - 95 - 50, OR - 25
50%
The average US citizen uses ____________ energy than the amount that the 2000-Watt society considers sustainable. - 4 times as much - 6 times as much - 2 times as much, OR - 12 times as much
6 times as much
According to the PHIUS+ standards, what are the two dry bulb temperature (Degree F) limits for the comfort zone as shown on the psychrometric chart below? Select one: a. 65 & 75 b. 68 & 77 c. 68 & 72 d. 60 & 80
68 & 77
Compared to conventional, code-compliant buildings, what is the average estimated space heating and site heating energy savings for passive buildings? Select one: a. 30-40% less space heating energy; 40-60% less site energy b. 0-10% less space heating energy; 40-60% less site energy c. 20-30% less space heating energy; 30-50% less site energy, OR d. 70-80% less space heating energy; 60-80% less site energy
70-80% less space heating energy; 60-80% less site energy
What method describes the installation of this window? Select one: a. A nailing fin. b. A flush flange. c. A block frame. d. A brick mold attachment.
A block frame.
What feature, available on some electric storage water heaters, is not available for gas storage water heaters? Select one: a. An expansion tank. b. A completely insulated storage tank. c. Sealed combustion. d. Electronic economization.
A completely insulated storage tank.
______________ is the best approach to prevent attic overheating. - A radiant barrier - An electric powered ventilator - A solar powered ventilator - A cool roof
A cool roof
Which of these choices does not provide overflow protection for bedrooms with closed interior doors while the ventilator is running? Select one: a. A pressure switch in the supply register. b. A door undercut by 1 1/2 inches. c. A grill installed in the door. d. A jump duct.
A pressure switch in the supply register.
This photo shows ______________ , a technique used to improve the thermal performance of a roof. - Advanced roof framing - An unvented roof framing - A raised heel truss - A super insulated vaulted roof
A raised heel truss
Which of the following is the best definition of a "hot roof"? Select one: a. A roof with no air movement next to the sheathing. b. A roof that is insulated between the rafters. c. A roof that becomes hot when absorbing solar energy. d. A roof that is used as a solar collector.
A roof with no air movement next to the sheathing.
Which of the following building components would be considered a geometric thermal bridge? Select one: a. An uninsulated window frame. b. A roof-wall junction. c. A corner wall-ceiling inside junction. d. A bolt holding a ledger plate to a wall.
A roof-wall junction.
What is this building component? Select one: a. A thermally broken shade structure. b. An optimized external light shelf. c. A support for a thermally broken balcony. d. A thermally bridging shade structure.
A thermally broken shade structure.
______________ stops rainwater from wetting the structural sheathing of a wood-frame building. - Damp proofing - A water-resistive barrier - Waterproofing - A vapor barrier
A water-resistive barrier
What type efficiency rating would you expect to find for a gas/combustion-based space heating system? Select one: a. HSPF b. AFUE c. COP d. SSE
AFUE
What is a potential problem with whole house fans? Select one: a. Pressurization b. Poor transmittance c. Radiant losses d. Air leakage
Air leakage
What window energy loss are occupants generally most aware of? Select one: a. Infrared transmittance. b. Air leakage. c. Radiation transfer. d. Thermal bridging.
Air leakage.
What is the most likely cause of high relative humidity in an attic or roof cavity? Select one: a. Snow or rain penetration. b. Air leaks. c. Inadequate insulation. d. Roof leaks
Air leaks
What type of insulation is installed underneath the roof deck in this photo? Select one: a. Spray fibrous insulation. b. Air permeable insulation. c. Open cell, low density spray foam. d. Air impermeable insulation
Air permeable insulation
This fiberglass element would be found as part of which of the following? Select one: a. A thermally broken balcony. b. A structural insulated panel. c. A non-structural insulated panel. d. An insulated curtainwall.
An insulated curtainwall.
In conventional construction, which of these building components is least likely to contain a thermal bridge? Select one: a. An insulated glass unit. b. A roof-wall junction. c. An outside corner of a wall. d. A bottom plate sitting on a concrete slab.
An insulated glass unit.
Which of the following is a major difference between ASHRAE 62.2-2016 and PHIUS+ with regard to ventilation? Select one: a. Assumptions about outdoor air quality. b. Assumptions about envelope air leakage rate. c. Requirements for ventilator orientation. d. Requirements for ventilator filtration.
Assumptions about envelope air leakage rate
Where do you start the installation of waterproofing materials in order to lap them in the correct way? Select one: a. At the top of the assembly. b. From right to left. c. From left to right. d. At the bottom of the assembly.
At the bottom of the assembly
Peak Heat Load is expressed in ______________ (in IP units) which is a measure of ______________. - kBTU - BTU/hr, or - therms AND - power - source factors, or - energy
BTU/hr power
Linear thermal bridges are expressed in the [IP] units: Select one: a. BTU/hr.ft2.°F b. BTU/hr c. kWh/°F d. BTU/hr.ft.°F e. kBTU/yr.ft.°F
BTU/hr.ft.°F
What is represented by the red portions of each bar in the chart? Select one: a. Total electricity use. b. Air conditioning electricity use. c. Space conditioning energy use. d. Baseload energy use.
Baseload energy use.
What primary characteristic of cool roofs reduces cooling energy demand? Select one: a. Long lifespan if installed correctly. b. Reduction of relative humidity in the attic. c. Air sealing of the roof surface. d. Blockage of solar heat gain.
Blockage of solar heat gain
How does advanced framing save energy? Select one: a. By using high R-value products. b. By substituting wood framing with steel framing. c. By substituting wood wall studs with polystyrene studs. d. By minimizing the wood content of a framed wall, increasing effective R-value.
By minimizing the wood content of a framed wall, increasing effective R-value.
What metric is used to rate the energy performance of clothes dryers? Select one: a. Efficacy b. CEF c. Drying Efficiency d. IMEF
CEF
Which of the following units of measurement does PHIUS use to specify whole building air leakage? Select one: a. CFM50 per cubic foot of volume. b. CFM50 per square foot of building enclosure. c. ACH50. d. Btu per cubic foot per hour.
CFM50 per square foot of building enclosure
What process characterizes water moving upward through soil? Select one: a. Diffusion. b. Capillary action. c. Profusion. d. Water pressure.
Capillary action.
What building component prevents water from rising out of the ground and into the building? Select one: a. Water brake assembly b. Ground water barrier c. Capillary barrier d. Ground vapor barrier
Capillary barrier
What type of moisture barrier prevents water from rising through concrete? Select one: a. Foundation dampproofing b. Vapor retarder c. Capillary barrier d. Water resistive barrier
Capillary barrier
What common gas serves as a controlling variable for demand-controlled or advanced ventilation systems? Select one: a. Methane b. Carbon Monoxide c. Carbon Dioxide d. Oxygen
Carbon Dioxide
What common gas serves as a controlling variable for demand-controlled or advanced ventilation systems? Select one: a. Methane. b. Carbon Monoxide. c. Carbon Dioxide. d. Oxygen.
Carbon Dioxide
Which of the following type of insulation has the lowest cost per R-value per square foot? Select one: a. Fiberglass loose fill. b. Cellulose loose fill. c. EPS. d. Open cell spray foam.
Cellulose loose fill.
A building product rated at 5 perms of water-vapor permeability is a ____________ vapor retarder. - Class III - Class IV - Class II, OR - Class I
Class III
Which of the following would have the highest relative humidity and greatest precipitation? Select one: a. The Midwest. b. Tennessee and Kentucky. c. The Northern Plains. d. Coastal Oregon.
Coastal Oregon
What does the ISO 13788 Low Thermal Inertia Elements calculator evaluate with reference to windows? Select one: a. Condensation resistance b. Visible transmittance c. Air leakage per linear foot d. Exact solar transmittance
Condensation resistance
What part of an air-conditioning or heat pump system is outdoors? Select one: a. Evaporator. b. Condenser. c. Compressor. d. Rejecter.
Condenser
Which of these would be the least desirable foundation approach for an energy efficient building? Select one: a. Slab on grade. b. Insulated basement c. Piers with an insulated floor. d. Conditioned crawl space with insulated foundation.
Conditioned crawl space with insulated foundation.
Which of the following provides the most common thermal break to a standard framed wall? Select one: a. Low density spray foam b. Fiberglass batts c. Dense packed cellulose insulation d. Continuous exterior foam board
Continuous exterior foam board
Which term best describes the ventilation system shown here? Select one: a. Air conditioner b. Enthalpy wheel c. Crossflow d. Counterflow
Counterflow
How does this device enhance summer comfort? Select one: a. Removes heat from the air by stirring the air. b. Draws warm air up to the ceiling and pushes cool air down. c. Creates moving air. d. Reduces air temperature by convection.
Creates moving air
Which function is an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) not capable of? Select one: a. Exchanging heat between incoming and outoging air. b. Filtering supply and exhaust air. c. Exchanging moisture between incoming and outgoing air. d. Dehumidifying indoor air.
Dehumidifying indoor air
What type of domestic hot water (DHW) circulation system must be used to meet distribution requirements in a passive building? Select one: a. Temperature driven. b. Demand-based. c. Continuous circulation. d. Time activated.
Demand-based.
What force drives water vapor through a material? Select one: a. Difference in temperature. b. Difference in absolute humidity. c. Difference in relative humidity. d. Difference in enthalpy.
Difference in absolute humidity.
What do you call a gap between the exterior wall siding and the WRB? Select one: a. Drainage plane b. HRV c. Structural sheathing d. Ventilation cavity
Drainage plane
Which of these is the most vapor permeable? Select one: a. XPS b. Polyethylene c. Dampproofing d. Drywall
Drywall
Why are broad trees more effective than tall trees at blocking solar radiation coming from the east and west? Select one: a. Solar radiation from the east and west is hotter. b. East and west solar radiation comes from lower in the sky. c. East and west solar radiation comes from higher in the sky. d. Broad trees absorb more solar radiation compared to tall trees.
East and west solar radiation comes from lower in the sky
How should this roof be ventilated according to best practices? Select one: a. Either under or over the structural sheathing. b. Only under the roof deck. c. Only between the roof tiles and roof deck. d. Between the roof tiles and outdoors.
Either under or over the structural sheathing.
What type of ventilation system would you choose for a building in a hot, humid climate? Select one: a. Energy recovery ventilator (ERV) b. Exhaust-only ventilator c. Heat recovery ventilator (HRV) d. Dehumidifier
Energy recovery ventilator (ERV)
Why is it difficult to design a continuous air control layer for retrofit projects on existing buildings? - Retrofitting a continuous air control layer is very expensive. - Plans and specifications for existing buildings are difficult to locate. - Modern air sealing materials do not work well with old building materials, OR - Existing building assemblies limit access to critical air sealing locations.
Existing building assemblies limit access to critical air sealing locations.
Which of the following would eliminate the need for exterior window trim? Select one: a. Exterior window jamb extensions b. Insulated vinyl window frames c. Exterior foam insulation board
Exterior window jamb extensions
For a project going through PHIUS+ Certification, adding more renewable energy can help meet the annual cooling demand target Select one: - True - False
False
Low-e coatings reduce the U-factor of a window compared to clear glass. Select one: - True - False
False
Surfaces in contact with the ground are not included in the enclosure area used for the infiltration limit in a PHIUS+ project. Select one: - True - False
False
Why does the Western US and Canada get more solar radiation than the Eastern US and Canada? Select one: a. Air is denser in the West. b. Fewer clouds. c. More mountainous. d. More humid.
Fewer clouds
What type of insulation is this insulator installing? Select one: a. Low-density spray foam b. Rockwool c. Fiberglass d. High-density spray foam
Fiberglass
Which of these will provide the least expensive roof insulation? Select one: a. Foam board insulation b. Spray foam insulation c. Fibrous insulation d. Ceramic insulation
Fibrous insulation
Which of the following does a ducted mini-split system have that ductless system does not have? Select one: a. Forced-air ducts. b. Ventilation ducts. c. A wall-hung indoor fan coil. d. An expansion valve.
Forced-air ducts
Which of these materials is a Class I vapor retarder? Select one: a. Foundation waterproofing b. Building wrap c. Water-resistive barrier d. 1-inch EPS
Foundation waterproofing
What is the main difference between source energy and site energy? - Source energy is a small fraction of site energy. - Generation, transmission, and distribution losses are included in source energy. - System efficiency losses, OR - Source energy and on-site energy reflect different types of energy.
Generation, transmission, and distribution losses are included in source energy.
What type of material is required on crawl space floors and under concrete slabs? Select one: a. Heavy duty ground flashing b. Ground moisture barrier c. 60 mil waterproofing d. Vapor permeable moisture barrier
Ground moisture barrier
Which of the following variables has heating degree hours as its unit of measurement? Select one: a. U b. Gt c. Q d. Ft
Gt
Latent heat is ______________. Select one: a. Heat transferred to a building from the sun. b. Heat gained or lost with an increase or decrease in temperature. c. Heat absorbed by a solid when it sublimes. d. Heat gained or lost during a phase change, without change of temperature.
Heat gained or lost during a phase change, without change of temperature.
Sensible heat is ______________. Select one: a. Heat transferred to a building from the sun. b. Heat gained or lost with an increase or decrease in temperature. c. Heat absorbed by a solid when it sublimes. d. Heat gained or lost during a phase change, without change of temperature.
Heat gained or lost with an increase or decrease in temperature.
Which of the following factors can be determined with only climate data? Select one: a. Peak Transmission Loss b. Heating Degree Days c. Peak Internal Gain d. Annual Ventilation Loss
Heating Degree Days
The units of measurement of 'Gt' are ____________ . - Heating degree days - Square feet - BTUs per square foot per degree F, OR - Heating degree hours
Heating degree hours
What are two key factors that affect the overall performance of a domestic hot water system? Select one or more: a. Rated power input b. Hot water heating efficiency c. W/CFM of the system d. Hot water distribution efficiency
Hot water heating efficiency Hot water distribution efficiency
____________ is measured in grains per pound. - Enthalpy - Dewpoint - Humidity ratio - Relative humidity
Humidity ratio
What type of wall system contains the most thermal mass? Select one: a. ICFs b. SIPs c. Flash and batt walls d. Double walls
ICFs
What are the two main components of the indoor unit of a ductless mini split system? Select one: a. Compressor and expansion valve. b. Indoor coil and fan. c. Condenser and condenser fan. d. Evaporator and compressor.
Indoor coil and fan
How would you protect polystyrene foam installed under dark roofing in a practical and effective way? Select one: a. Spray the roof with water during hot weather. b. Use white EPS foam that reflects the sun's radiant heat. c. Install an air space and a vapor permeable radiant barrier above the foam. d. The foam needs no protection in this situation.
Install an air space and a vapor permeable radiant barrier above the foam.
Identify the roof detail shown in this image. Select one: a. An insulated roof with baffled ventilation. b. An insulated roof with a ventilated attic. c. Insulated and ventilated roof cavity. d. Insulated attic and ventilated roof.
Insulated attic and ventilated roof.
What is the best way to build an insulated foundation wall? Select one: a. Poured foundation walls insulated with fiberglass batts. b. Treated structural insulated panels. c. Concrete blocks with interior foam insulation. d. Insulated concrete forms.
Insulated concrete forms
What is usually the biggest challenge of retrofitting an existing building to meet PHIUS+ standards? Select one: a. Installing continuous insulation in the walls. b. Air sealing the roof-wall junction. c. Insulating the foundation. d. Installing high performance windows in old openings.
Insulating the foundation
What moisture protection element is common with European windows but uncommon with North American windows? Select one: a. Integral exterior sill b. Integrated head jamb flashing c. Integrated side jamb flashing d. Integrated perimeter gasket system
Integral exterior sill
The 4 main 'energy balance buckets' that WUFI Passive is solving for to calculate space conditioning demands are: Select one or more: a. Internal Gains b. Ventilation Losses c. Transmission Losses d. Solar Gains e. HVAC Equipment COP f. Moisture Gain g. Hair Loss
Internal Gains Ventilation Losses Transmission Losses Solar Gains
What part of a PV system converts the solar electricity for entry to the grid? Select one: a. Inverter b. Rectifier c. Optimizer d. Power converter
Inverter
How does a solar screen reduce window solar gain? Select one: a. It absorbs solar radiation before it reaches the glass. b. It reflects solar energy after passing through the glass. c. It turns the solar rays, angling them away from the window. d. It delays the passage of solar energy through the glass.
It absorbs solar radiation before it reaches the glass.
With a crawl space, why is insulating the ceiling of the crawlspace better than insulating the foundation walls? Select one: a. Because fibrous insulation is more effective than foam. b. Insulating the crawlspace ceiling is not better than just insulating the foundation. c. Ventilation is not needed in the crawl space with floor insulation. d. It established the thermal envelope at the boundary of the occupied space.
It established the thermal envelope at the boundary of the occupied space.
Which of the following program certifications is not a prerequisite of PHIUS+ Certification? - DOE Zero Energy Ready Home - EPA Indoor AirPlus - LEED Certification, OR - ENERGY STAR
LEED Certification
What is the one advantage of ventilating the roof above the roof deck? Select one: a. Allows for more insulation compared to ventilating below the roof deck. b. Collects more winter solar heat than ventilating below the roof deck. c. Less likely to leak compared to ventilating below the roof deck. d. Less summer heat transmission than ventilating below the roof deck.
Less summer heat transmission than ventilating below the roof deck.
Which measurement unit is used in a psi-value (thermal bridge coefficient)? Select one: a. Linear feet. b. BTUs per hour. c. Square feet. d. Cubic feet.
Linear feet.
What is the minimum filter level required for fresh-air ventilation for PHIUS+ projects? Select one: a. MERV 12 b. 95% c. MERV 8 d. 75%
MERV 8
Which of the following processes are caused by an increase or decrease of latent heat? Select one: a. Adsorption and desorption. b. Melting and freezing. c. Sublimation and deposition. d. Condensation and evaporation.
Melting and freezing.
Which load listed below makes up the highest percentage of baseload electricity use? Select one: a. Miscellaneous Electric Loads (MELs) b. Laundry. c. Lighting d. Refrigeration
Miscellaneous Electric Loads (MELs)
What advantage does a metal-clad window have over a vinyl window? Select one: a. Easier to install. b. More durable material. c. Lighter weight. d. Lower cost.
More durable material.
What building pressure difference with outdoors exist inside a building when a whole-house fan is operating? Select one: a. Negative pressure. b. A mixture of positive and negative pressure. c. Neutral pressure. d. Positive pressure.
Negative pressure
Which of these building materials provides the most reliable and durable continuous air barrier for a roof? Select one: a. OSB b. Polyurethane caulking. c. 15-pound asphalt felt underlayment. d. Spray foam insulation.
OSB
Which element can help reduce thermal bridging through an installed window unit? Select one: a. The wood window buck b. Over insulation c. Peel 7 stick flashing d. Dense-packed cellulose
Over insulation
What type of roof structure is shown in this image? Select one: a. Parallel chord truss b. Raised heel truss c. Engineered I-truss d. Bridge truss
Parallel chord truss
Which of the following best describes relative humidity? Select one: a. Dewpoint. b. Weight of water vapor per weight of dry air. c. It is synonymous with absolute humidity d. Percent of saturation.
Percent of saturation.
Which of the following is recommended as a primary air tight layer in a building assembly? Select one: a. Spray foam. b. House wrap. c. Plywood or OSB. d. Drywall. e. Cellulose insulation.
Plywood or OSB.
Which of the following is the most reliable and durable air barrier? Select one: a. Plywood taped at the seams. b. House wrap. c. Spray foam d. Cellulose insulation.
Plywood taped at the seams.
Which of the following devices likely consumes the most electricity annually? Select one: a. 3-year old refrigerator. b. Microwave c. Pool pump d. Television
Pool pump
Which foundation type would be the best choice for a flood prone region? Select one: a. Slab on grade. b. Crawl space. c. Posts or pilings. d. Basement
Posts or pilings
The primary purpose of a WRB is to ______________. - Provide an air-vapor barrier. - Prevent rain from wetting the exterior sheathing. - Create a vapor-open wall assembly. - Provide a thermal bridge.
Prevent rain from wetting the exterior sheathing
The OSB is attached to the truss bottom chord with a space and then drywall below it to ______________. Select one: a. Provide an air barrier & and a utility space. b. Provide an air barrier & radiant barrier. c. Provide a thermal break to reduce heat gain. d. Provide an air barrier & ventilation for the ceiling.
Provide an air barrier & and a utility space
What symbol is used to express the coefficient for a linear thermal bridge? Select one: a. Psi b. Chi c. K d. U
Psi
What type of electrical loads does this pie chart represent? Select one: a. Home baseload electricity b. Commercial baseload electricity c. Commercial MELs (CMELs) d. Residential MELs (RMELs)
Residential MELs (RMELs)
What component does a heat pump have that an air conditioner does not? Select one: a. Evaporator b. Expansion valve c. Reversing valve d. Pressure transducer
Reversing valve
When calculating solar gains, the 'g' value is equivalent to the ______________. - glazing area - glazing VT - shading factor - glazing value - SHGC (solar heat gain coefficient)
SHGC (solar heat gain coefficient)
What type of wall is a sandwich of OSB sheathing (outside) and foam board insulation (inside)? Select one: a. Advanced framing b. Double walls c. SIPs d. ICFs
SIPs
Baseload would likely be the greatest percentage of total annual energy use in which of these cities? Select one: a. Minneapolis b. Omaha c. Sacramento d. San Diego
San Diego
What feature would you require for a gas-fired water heater in an airtight building? Select one: a. Power burner b. Sealed combustion c. Open combustion d. Induced draft
Sealed combustion
Which of these devise is the most challenging in terms of energy use reduction? Select one: a. Laser Printer b. Set-top box c. Laptop computer d. Pool pump
Set-top box
What type of roof is shown here? Select one: a. Gable roof b. Hip roof c. Flat roof d. Shed roof
Shed roof
What is the purpose of the asphalt felt or other roof underlayment material installed under the shingles? Select one: a. Keep the shingles cool during warm weather. b. Act as a radiant barrier for the roof. c. Act as an air barrier at the roof. d. Shed water that gets through the shingles.
Shed water that gets through the shingles.
You can prevent wind-driven rain and snow from entering an attic or roof cavity by using ______________ . - Sheltered roof vents - Powered ventilators - A pressurized roof or attic - Louvered gable vents
Sheltered roof vents
Which of the following has the highest U-factor? Select one: a. Triple pane glass. b. Double pane glass. c. Single pane glass d. Low-e double pane glass
Single pane glass
Which of the following foundations would likely be the least expensive? Select one: a. Flood Resistant b. Crawl space c. Slab on grade d. Basement
Slab on grade
What window performance characteristic is most important to control heat gain in a cooling-dominated climate? Select one: a. Infrared transmittance. b. Visible transmittance. c. Solar heat gain coefficient d. U-factor.
Solar heat gain coefficient
What function does this HRV perform that most HRVs sold do not perform? Select one: a. Balanced ventilation b. Air filtration c. Space conditioning d. Air ionization
Space conditioning
To determine a building's baseload energy use, ______________ should be substracted from the total energy use. - Space conditioning energy - Gas use - Alternative energy generation - Electricity use
Space conditioning energy
Which variable in the formula for peak ventilation load (Pv = nv * V * Cpp * Delta T) is treated as a constant? Select one: a. Temperature. b. Chi value. c. Specific heat capacity of air. d. Conductivity.
Specific heat capacity of air
What might a building require for a roof-mounted PV array? Select one: a. Electrical design calculations b. Electrical engineering review c. Structural engineer's stamp d. Net meter specifications
Structural engineer's stamp
Definitions and examples of Sublimation and Deposition.
Sublimation - the phase transition of a substance directly from the solid to the gas state, without passing through the liquid state. Ex, dry ice. Deposition - the phase transition of a substance directly from the gas to the solid state, without passing through the liquid state. Ex, frost.
How do you find Delta T from the outdoor design temperature for a Peak Heating Load calculation? Select one: a. Subtract the design temperature from the interior heating setpoint (68 degrees F) b. Directly from the PHIUS climate database. c. Add the design temperature to the customer's thermostat setpoint. d. From the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Subtract the design temperature from the interior heating setpoint (68 degrees F)
Why does the Eastern US and Canada have more rainfall and higher relative humidity compared to the Western US and Canada? Select one: a. The Eastern US has more solar radiation. b. The Eastern US is less mountainous. c. The Eastern US has less solar radiation. d. The Eastern US has more proximity to bodies of water.
The Eastern US has more proximity to bodies of water
The Passivhaus Institut (PHI) set the certification thresholds for Peak Heating Load based on: Select one: a. The amount of solar radiation available in Germany. b. The standard size of a radiant heating system. c. The amount of heat deliverable via fresh air supply.
The amount of heat deliverable via fresh air supply.
What is "Peak Heating Load"? - The rated size of the space heating system. - The maximum amount of heat needed during the coldest part of a day. - The peak amount of heating energy used over the entire year, OR - The amount of heating needed during the coldest time of the year.
The amount of heating needed during the coldest time of the year.
The term "framing factor" refers to ____________ . - The additional insulation provided by framing materials. - Percent of air leakage due to poorly installed framing members. - The percentage of a given area of a building assembly that consists of framing, OR - The insulation multiplier due to thermal mass.
The percentage of a given area of a building assembly that consists of framing.
When there is a subscript following CFM or ACH, that subscript is representing ______________. Select one: a. The percentage of the building that was closed off for the air-tightness test. b. The percentage error on the air-tightness test. c. The pressure the air tightness test result was completed at, in Pascals. d. The outdoor temperature the air tightness test result was completed at, in Fahrenheit.
The pressure the air tightness test result was completed at, in Pascals.
____________ is used to record changes to a PHIUS+ project submission when a project is in the pre-certification review phase? Select one: a. The project's public listing on the PHIUS database b. The project's On-Site QA workbook c. The project's supporting program checklists, OR d. The project's PHIUS+ Feedback form
The project's PHIUS+ Feedback form
Which of the following is a thermal bridge? Select one: a. The structural frame of a building. b. Spray foam installed in a roof cavity. c. An insulated window frame. d. An insulated building cavity.
The structural frame of a building.
Which of the following is an advantage of an ICF roof versus a conventional roof? Select one: a. Thermal mass & disaster resistance. b. More waterproof than conventional. c. Easier to ventilate than conventional roofs. d. More insect-resistant than conventional roofs.
Thermal mass & disaster resistance
What is the difference between a boiler-heated indirect water heating tank and a solar water heating tank? Select one: a. They are both indirect, but the boiler-heated indirect tank has two coils. b. Neither is indirect, they are both direct water heating tanks. c. They are virtually identical. d. They are both indirect, but the solar tank typically has two coils.
They are both indirect, but the solar tank typically has two coils.
Which of these is true of the PHIUS + requirements? - Airtightness limits are climate specific. - They combine performance metrics and prescriptive requirements. - The source energy metric is unlikely to change in the near future, OR - They are the same as the European Passivhaus Institut metrics.
They combine performance metrics and prescriptive requirements.
Low-e coatings improve the U-factor of a window because _________________. Select one: a. They have a high R-value. b. They resist the flow of radiant energy. c. The increase the transmission of heat. d. They slow convection with the window.
They resist the flow of radiant energy.
Where is the ventilation space located in this roof assembly? Select one: a. Under the rafters. b. Under the roof deck. c. On top of the roof deck. d. This assembly has no ventilation.
This assembly has no ventilation.
What was the major purpose for raising the example retrofit house above its existing foundation? Select one: a. To protect the above-grade from flooding. b. To insulate the footing and install a capillary barrier. c. To Insulate the slab. d. To repair foundation wall and insulate it.
To Insulate the slab.
What is the primary reason super-insulated buildings need exceptionally airtight building enclosures? - To minimize energy consumption. - To improve longevity and durability of the enclosure - To optimize sustainability and social justice, OR - To avoid drafts.
To improve longevity and durability of the enclosure
The primary purpose of attic or roof ventilation is ______________ . - To maintain good indoor air quality. - To keep the insulation cool. - To keep the roof deck dry. - To keep the attic cool.
To keep the roof deck dry.
What is the main benefit of a "cold roof" in a snowy climate? Select one: a. To stop air leakage through the ceiling? b. To melt the snow off the roof. c. To prevent roof snow on the roof from melting unevenly. d. To maximize the R-value of the roof or attic insulation?
To prevent roof snow on the roof from melting unevenly.
The primary purpose of the on-site verification QA/QC visits is... - To make sure the Rater is doing their job correctly. - To verify the construction matches the pre-certified plans and specs. - To ensure the project stays on schedule, OR - To identify any potential compliance issues before construction begins.
To verify the construction matches the pre-certified plans and specs
Cellulose is moisture resistant and is undamaged by wetting. Select one: - True - False
True
PHIUS+ Certification requires both pressurization and depressurization tests for the air-tightness testing. Select one: - True - False
True
What window performance characteristic is most important to reduce heat loss in a heating-dominated climate? Select one: a. Visible transmittance. b. Solar heat gain coefficient. c. Infrared transmittance. d. U-factor.
U-factor
What is the name of the space between the WRB and the cladding? Select one: a. Wall thermal break b. Vented-cavity rain screen c. Vapor control layer d. Ice shield
Vented-cavity rain screen
What is the source of this table and chart? Select one: a. The Energy Information Agency of the US Department of Energy. b. PHIUS requirements. c. WUFI Passive d. Building Science Corporation.
WUFI Passive
Which of these has the smallest molecule? Select one: a. Oxygen b. Carbon Dioxide c. Water d. Nitrogen
Water
Which of the following best describes desorption? Select one: a. Water vapor entering the surface of a material. b. Capillary action. c. Water vapor leaving the surface of a material. d. Evaporation from a surface.
Water vapor leaving the surface of a material.
What type of moisture barrier is required for basement foundation walls? Select one: a. House wrap b. Dampproofing c. Water resistive barrier d. Waterproofing
Waterproofing
What type of moisture barrier should be used on the outside of a basement foundation? Select one: a. Waterproofing b. Air-vapor barrier c. Capillary barrier d. Damp proofing
Waterproofing
A ______________ allows water out of a stucco wall assembly? - rain gutter - down spout - weep screed - batten
Weep screed
Which of the following climate control situations is least likely to require the use of the psychrometric chart? Select one: a. Wintertime indoor dewpoint. b. Winter space heating. c. Summer humid-climate air conditioning. d. Summer ERV operation.
Winter space heating.
In the Passive Building Physics calculations, the term 'fT' is used to represent ______________. - a temperature correction factor - total factor - Fahrenheit
a temperature correction factor
For a given climate that a building is designed for, Annual Degree Days will impact the ______________, while the design temperatures will impact the ______________. - equipment efficiency - peak loads, or - annual demands AND - annual demands - peak loads, or - equipment efficiency
annual demands peak loads
For PHIUS+ Certification, a maximum U-value for windows is set based on _____________ and ______________ at a given design condition. - visibility - daylighting, or - comfort AND - thermal views - blocking solar gain, or - limiting condensation risk
comfort limiting condensation risk
'CFM' stands for: Select one: a. constant flow metric b. correct Fahrenheit measurement c. cubic feet per minute d. cubic frames measured
cubic feet per minute
Evaporative coolers are best suited for ______________ climates. - temperate - northern, cold - dry - hot-humid
dry
For window glazing coatings, "low-e" stands for "low- ____________. - emissivity - entropy - enthalpy - energy
emissivity
An HRV is suitable for ______________ climates. - cooling-dominated, dry - cooling-dominated, humid - heating-dominated, dry - heating-dominated, humid
heating-dominated, dry
Annual Heat Demand is expressed in ______________ (in IP units) which is a measure of ______________. - kBTU - joules, or - BTU/hr AND - power - heating equipment efficiency - energy
kBTU energy
A window installed in the ______________ of the wall usually gives a window the lowest installed U-factor. - outer side - inner side - middle
middle
A ______________ thermal bridge is considered beneficial to a passive building (improves the building performance). Select one: a. negative b. geometric c. positive d. linear
negative
Most ground moisture barriers are made of ______________. - polyisocyanurate - pentane - polystyrene - polyethylene
polyethylene
The main reason supply-only and exhaust-only ventilation systems are not allowed in PHIUS+ projects is because... - they cannot recover heat from exhausted air. - there is no guarantee that incoming fresh air is from a quality source. - they cause pressure imbalances and increase risk of moisture damage in the building envelope, OR - their sone ratings exceed the ENERGY STAR standard.
they cause pressure imbalances and increase risk of moisture damage in the building envelope.
The Net Volume for a building is the interior volume and is also used for the ______________ volume. - solar radiation - gross - transmission loss - ventilation
ventilation
