Building Performance Institute (BPI) Certification Training Course.
Introduction
The Building Performance Institute (BPI) Certification is a widely recognized credential in the energy efficiency and building performance industry. This 5-day intensive training course is designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills required to assess, improve, and optimize residential and commercial building energy performance. The course covers essential topics such as energy auditing, building science principles, air sealing, insulation, HVAC systems, and diagnostics, while preparing participants for the BPI certification exam. By the end of the course, participants will be prepared to implement energy-efficient solutions and improve the overall performance of buildings.
Course Objectives
By the end of this training, participants will:
- Understand the core principles of building performance and energy efficiency.
- Gain proficiency in conducting energy audits and identifying areas for energy conservation.
- Learn how to assess and optimize building systems, including HVAC, insulation, and air sealing.
- Develop diagnostic skills to identify and address building performance issues.
- Be fully prepared to take the BPI certification exam and implement energy-efficient solutions in residential and commercial buildings.
Who Should Attend?
This course is ideal for:
- Energy auditors, weatherization professionals, and building performance contractors.
- Building engineers, project managers, and HVAC specialists interested in energy efficiency.
- Professionals seeking BPI certification or wanting to enhance their skills in building performance and energy efficiency.
- Individuals or organizations involved in residential and commercial energy audits, retrofit projects, and sustainable building practices.
Day 1: Introduction to Building Science and Energy Auditing
Session 1: Understanding Building Performance and Energy Efficiency
- Overview of building performance and its impact on energy efficiency
- Key principles of building science: Heat flow, air flow, and moisture control
- The role of energy audits in identifying energy-saving opportunities
- The importance of optimizing indoor comfort, air quality, and energy performance
Session 2: Introduction to Energy Auditing
- The energy audit process: Scope, objectives, and methodologies
- Tools and equipment used in energy auditing: Blower doors, infrared cameras, CO2 analyzers, and more
- Conducting a walk-through audit: Identifying and documenting inefficiencies and potential upgrades
- Calculating energy savings and return on investment (ROI) for energy efficiency measures
Day 2: Air Sealing, Insulation, and Energy Efficiency Measures
Session 3: Air Sealing Techniques for Energy Efficiency
- Understanding the importance of air sealing in energy performance
- Identifying air leakage pathways and common sources of energy loss
- Methods and materials used for air sealing: Caulking, weatherstripping, spray foam, and sealants
- Best practices for air sealing in attics, basements, and walls
- Testing air sealing effectiveness using blower door tests and pressure diagnostics
Session 4: Insulation and Thermal Performance
- The role of insulation in reducing energy consumption and improving comfort
- Types of insulation: Batt, spray foam, cellulose, fiberglass, and blown-in insulation
- Assessing insulation performance: R-values, thermal bridging, and moisture control
- Proper installation techniques for maximizing insulation effectiveness
- Identifying common insulation issues and retrofitting solutions
Day 3: HVAC Systems, Ventilation, and Indoor Air Quality
Session 5: HVAC System Efficiency and Performance
- Understanding HVAC systems and their role in building performance
- Common types of HVAC systems: Forced air, heat pumps, hydronic heating, and cooling
- Assessing HVAC efficiency: SEER, AFUE, and EER ratings
- Proper installation, maintenance, and repair of HVAC systems for optimal performance
- Techniques for diagnosing HVAC system issues and identifying opportunities for improvement
Session 6: Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)
- The importance of proper ventilation for energy efficiency and indoor air quality
- Identifying ventilation strategies: Exhaust fans, supply ventilation, balanced systems, and HRVs (Heat Recovery Ventilators)
- Evaluating indoor air quality: Air contaminants, humidity control, and VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)
- Addressing IAQ issues through ventilation upgrades and filtration systems
- Maintaining a balance between energy conservation and sufficient ventilation
Day 4: Diagnostics, Testing, and Energy Efficiency Solutions
Session 7: Diagnostics and Building Performance Testing
- Diagnostic tools and techniques for measuring building performance: Blower door testing, duct leakage testing, infrared thermography
- How to interpret diagnostic results and identify performance issues
- Identifying common building performance problems: Air leaks, thermal loss, moisture issues, and ventilation inefficiencies
- Using test results to recommend energy efficiency solutions
Session 8: Energy Efficiency Solutions and Recommendations
- Identifying cost-effective energy-saving solutions: Insulation upgrades, air sealing, lighting retrofits, and appliance replacements
- Evaluating the cost and ROI of energy efficiency measures
- Prioritizing improvements based on energy savings, payback periods, and environmental impact
- Best practices for presenting energy audit findings and recommendations to clients
Day 5: Certification Exam Preparation and Review
Session 9: Preparing for the BPI Certification Exam
- Overview of the BPI certification exam: Format, structure, and key areas of focus
- Review of key concepts and skills needed for the exam: Building science, energy auditing, HVAC systems, air sealing, insulation, and diagnostics
- Practice questions and mock exams to assess readiness for certification
- Exam-taking strategies: Time management, interpreting questions, and handling complex case studies
Session 10: Final Q&A and Certification Exam
- Final review of the material and addressing any questions or concerns
- Exam-taking strategies and tips for success
- Completion of the BPI certification exam and next steps for obtaining the BPI credential