1  Introduction

This compliance 'manual is intended to help plans examiners, inspectors, owners, designers, builders, and energy consultants comply with and enforce California’s 2013 Building Energy Efficiency Standards for low-rise residential buildings. The lighting and domestic hot water requirements in this compliance 'manual also apply to high-rise residential buildings. The 'manual is written as a reference and an instructional guide and can be helpful for anyone that is directly or indirectly involved in the design and construction of energy efficient low-rise residential buildings.

The compliance 'manual has nine chapters:   

Chapter 1 introduces the Standards and discusses the application and scope of the Standards for low-rise residences.

Chapter 2 reviews the compliance and enforcement process, including design and preparation of compliance documentation through field verification and diagnostic testing.

Chapter 3 addresses the requirements for the design of the building envelope.

Chapter 4 covers the requirements for HVAC systems.

Chapter 5 covers the water heating systems requirements, including the requirements for swimming pool systems.

Chapter 6 addresses the requirements for hardwired interior lighting and for outdoor lighting permanently attached to the building.

Chapter 7 addresses the new solar ready requirements for low-rise residential buildings and covers guidelines for complying with the requirements of the New Solar Homes Partnership.

Chapter 8 covers the computer performance approach.

Chapter 9 covers additions, alterations, and repairs.