1 Introduction

This compliance 'manual is intended to help plans examiners, inspectors, owners, designers, builders, and energy consultants comply with and enforce California’s 2016 Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Energy 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 Energy 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 building envelope.

Chapter 4 covers the requirements for heating, ventilation and air conditioning (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 solar ready requirements for low-rise residential buildings.

Chapter 8 covers the performance approach to compliance.

Chapter 9 covers additions, alterations, and repairs.