Official Florida Energy Template

What is the purpose of the Florida Energy Form?

The Florida Energy Form is designed to demonstrate compliance with Section 402 of the Florida Building Code, Energy Conservation. It is used for new constructions, additions, renovations, and the installation of new heating, cooling, and water heating systems in residential buildings of three stories or less. The form ensures that these projects meet or exceed specific energy efficiency requirements outlined in Table 402A and comply with the mandatory requirements summarized in Table 402B.

Who needs to fill out and sign the Florida Energy Form?

The form must be filled out by the person preparing the document, which could be the builder, contractor, or a certified energy rater. The "Prepared By" section at the bottom of page 1 should be completed, including a certification statement. Additionally, the property owner or the owner's authorized agent is required to sign and date the form, thereby affirming that all information provided is accurate and that the project will adhere to the stated energy efficiency criteria.

Can renovations and additions to existing buildings use the standard compliance method outlined in the Florida Energy Form?

Yes, renovations, as well as additions to existing residential buildings, can use the standard compliance method outlined in the Florida Energy Form with certain exceptions. For example, additions of 600 square feet or less have specific criteria they can meet for compliance. The form provides flexibility for smaller projects to comply with energy conservation requirements without needing extensive modifications.

What happens if a building cannot comply with the requirements on the Florida Energy Form?

If a building project cannot comply with the requirements listed on the Florida Energy Form, it does not automatically mean the project cannot proceed. Instead, the project could still achieve compliance through an alternative compliance method under Section 405 of the Florida Building Code, Energy Conservation. This section offers an alternative path for projects that may not meet the specific criteria outlined in the form but can still prove energy efficiency through other means.

Are there any specific features that disqualify a project from using this compliance method?

Yes, there are specific building features that disqualify a project from using the compliance method outlined in the Florida Energy Form. These include having glass areas that exceed 20 percent of the conditioned floor area and including electric resistance heating systems located in attics. Projects with these features must seek alternative ways to demonstrate compliance with the Florida Building Code, Energy Conservation.

What are Tables 402A and 402B on the Florida Energy Form?

Table 402A and Table 402B are essential components of the Florida Energy Form. Table 402A outlines the energy efficiency requirements for various building components, such as windows, walls, and HVAC systems. Each component listed must meet or exceed the specified performance criteria to demonstrate compliance. Table 402B lists the mandatory requirements that all projects must adhere to regardless of their specific details. These requirements include measures for air sealing, insulation, ductwork, water heating, and lighting equipment.

How does the Florida Energy Form address air leakage and ductwork?

The Florida Energy Form includes specific criteria for air leakage and ductwork to ensure that buildings are energy-efficient and minimize energy waste. For instance, windows and doors must meet a specific air leakage rate, and ducts located in attics or on roofs must be insulated to at least R-8, with other ducts insulated to R-6. Additionally, duct systems are required to be tested for air leakage by a certified rater, and the test results must be attached to the form. These requirements help ensure that the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems operate efficiently, contributing to the overall energy conservation goals of the building.

1. Failing to ensure the glass areas do not exceed the stipulated 20 percent of the conditioned floor area is a common error. Exceeding this limit without seeking an alternative compliance method under Section 405 can invalidate the form submission.

2. Incorrectly identifying the building type or failing to specify whether the form is for new construction, an addition, or an existing building renovation. This oversight can lead to improper evaluation of energy compliance requirements.

3. Omitting the "To Be Installed" values or entering values that do not meet or exceed the efficiency requirements outlined. This mistake undermines the form's purpose to demonstrate compliance with energy efficiency standards.

4. Overlooking the mandatory items listed in Table 402B, or failing to check off each applicable item as a sign of intent to comply, can lead to non-compliance with essential energy conservation measures.

5. Not signing the "Prepared By" certification at the bottom of the first page. This certification is crucial for verifying the authenticity and intent to comply with the Florida Building Code, Energy Conservation Section 402.

6. Not attaching the HVAC sizing calculation or not ensuring that the attached calculations are comprehensive and accurate. This oversight could result in inefficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems that do not comply with the code.

7. Entering inaccurate or unrealistic U-Factor and SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient) values for windows, which might lead to non-compliance with the specific performance criteria designed to ensure energy efficiency.

8. Incorrectly reporting the percentage of glass to floor area or underestimating this value. Such inaccuracies can not only lead to energy efficiency non-compliance but also impact the structural integrity and energy performance of the building.

9. Neglecting to attach the ductwork and air handling unit test report when applicable. This report is essential for verifying that the air distribution system is installed substantially leak-free, a requirement for energy conservation.

10. Failure to comply with the water heating systems criteria, especially overlooking the EF (Energy Factor) requirements, which can result in the installation of less efficient systems that do not meet the Florida Energy Code's conservation requirements.

When working with the Florida Energy Form, which is essential for documenting compliance with energy conservation requirements in building projects, several other documents often play a crucial role throughout the construction process. These documents ensure adherence to various aspects of the Florida Building Code and facilitate efficient, sustainable building practices.

• Building Permit Application: This document is the starting point for most construction projects. It officially requests permission to start construction, alteration, or demolition of a building in Florida. The application contains details about the project, including owner information, contractor details, and a description of the work to be performed. It's crucial because no work can legally commence without a permit.
• Site Plan: A site plan is a detailed drawing of the entire property where construction is proposed. It includes boundaries, proposed changes, existing structures, and natural features. This plan helps in understanding how the structure will sit on the site, its impact on the environment, and compliance with zoning regulations. It often accompanies the building permit application.
• Construction Plans and Specifications: These detailed drawings and documents describe the design, materials, and construction methods of the project. They provide a guideline for contractors to follow and help building inspectors determine if the project meets the Florida Building Code requirements, including the energy conservation measures described in the Florida Energy Form.
• Inspection Reports: Throughout the construction process, various inspections ensure that the project adheres to the approved plans and complies with local building codes. Inspectors review the structural integrity, electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC, and energy conservation measures. The reports from these inspections are essential for moving forward with the construction phases and for final approval of the project.
• Energy Calculations: Supplementary to the Florida Energy Form, detailed energy modeling or calculations may be required to demonstrate compliance with specific energy performance criteria. These calculations take into account the building's orientation, insulation, windows, doors, HVAC systems, and more to ensure it meets or exceeds the Florida Building Code's energy efficiency requirements.

Together with the Florida Energy Form, these documents form a comprehensive suite to guide the construction process, ensuring energy-efficient, safe, and code-compliant buildings. By meticulously preparing and maintaining these documents, builders and developers can facilitate smoother project approvals, contribute to sustainable development, and ensure the longevity and efficiency of their construction projects.

• The Florida Energy form is similar to the Residential Energy Compliance Certificate, which is used in many states to demonstrate that a home meets specific energy efficiency standards. Both forms require detailed information about the building's energy-related components, such as insulation, windows, and heating and cooling systems, ensuring compliance with respective building codes.

• Akin to the HERS (Home Energy Rating System) Report, the Florida Energy form evaluates a home's energy efficiency features against established criteria. While the HERS Report provides a score indicating a home's energy performance, the Florida Energy form confirms compliance with the Florida Building Code, Energy Conservation.

• The Building Permit Application shares similarities with the Florida Energy form, as both necessitate details about the construction project, including specifics about the structure's design and materials that impact energy consumption, to ensure code compliance before approval is granted.

• Similar to the Energy Star Certification paperwork, the Florida Energy form verifies that building components meet certain energy efficiency criteria. While Energy Star certification focuses on meeting specific performance standards for energy savings, the Florida Energy form ensures compliance with state-specific energy conservation requirements.

• The LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Certification Application parallels the Florida Energy form by requiring detailed information about a building's environmental and energy efficiency features. Both documents serve to validate a building's performance in terms of energy conservation, although LEED covers broader sustainability aspects.

• Similar to Construction Specifications, which detail materials and methods for a building project, the Florida Energy form specifies the energy-related components and systems to ensure they meet the Florida Building Code. Both documents play crucial roles in planning and executing construction projects with required standards.

• The Property Disclosure Statement, often used in real estate transactions, is somewhat similar to the Florida Energy form in that it may include information about a home's energy efficiency features, such as insulation and HVAC systems, providing buyers with details on the home's energy performance.

• Lastly, akin to Energy Audit Reports, the Florida Energy form catalogs a building's energy efficiency characteristics. However, while an energy audit offers recommendations for improvement, the Florida Energy form certifies that the existing conditions meet the state's energy conservation codes.

When filling out the Florida Energy form, attention to detail and accuracy is paramount to ensure compliance with the Florida Building Code, Energy Conservation. Below are the guiding tips to follow:

• Do carefully read the General Instructions section to understand the scope and requirements.
• Do make sure that all "To Be Installed" values entered meet or exceed the requirements listed in Table 402A.
• Do check each box in Table 402B to affirm intention to comply with all listed mandatory requirements.
• Do properly fill out the "Prepared By" certification statement at the bottom of page 1, ensuring it is signed and dated by the owner or owner's agent.
• Do accurately calculate and enter the conditioned floor area and ensure glass areas do not exceed 20 percent, unless qualifying for an exception.
• Do include all relevant attachments, such as HVAC sizing calculations and test reports for the air distribution system.
• Do review the installed values against the performance criteria to ensure compliance.
• Do not attempt to use this form if the construction features glass areas in excess of allowable percentages or uses prohibited electric resistance heating in attics.
• Do not leave any applicable spaces in the "To Be Installed" column blank or enter values that do not meet or exceed the "To Be Installed" requirements.
• Do not forget to review and comply with the specialized requirements for high-efficiency lighting fixtures, where at least 50% must be high-efficacy lamps.

Following these dos and don'ts will guide you through the process of filling out the form correctly and ensuring your building project complies with the Florida Energy Code. This diligence not only facilitates a smoother approval process but also supports energy conservation efforts in the state of Florida.

Understanding the complexities of the Florida Energy Form can be challenging. Misinterpretations of its requirements and applications can lead to confusion among homeowners, contractors, and design professionals. Here are seven common misconceptions:

• Energy Form is only for new constructions: A common misconception is that the Form 402 is exclusively for new construction projects. However, it also applies to additions, renovations, and the installation of new heating, cooling, and water heating systems in existing buildings, provided they comply with specific conditions and exceptions outlined in the form.

• Any size addition can be covered: Many believe that any addition, regardless of its size, can comply using Form 402. In reality, only additions of 600 square feet or less are granted some latitude in compliance, particularly with the glass area to conditioned floor area ratio. Additions larger than this threshold must adhere to stricter guidelines.

• All heating systems are permitted: There is a notion that the form allows for the installation of any type of heating system within a building. However, electric resistance heating systems, except in certain renovations or new heating systems in existing buildings, are explicitly not allowed if they are located within attics. This underscores the importance of consulting specific sections of the form regarding heating systems.

• Compliance through alternate methods is restrictive: Some may assume that if a building does not comply through Form 402, alternate compliance methods under Section 405 are more restrictive or complicated. On the contrary, Section 405 offers different compliance pathways that might better suit certain projects, especially those with unique designs or features.

• All windows must have a U-factor and SHGC below a certain threshold: While the form does prescribe maximum U-Factor and SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient) values, it also allows for exceptions, particularly in additions smaller than 600 square feet. The key criterion is that the total window area should not exceed a certain percentage of the conditioned floor area, with specific criteria provided for different scenarios.

• Mandatory requirements are optional: It's misconceived that the mandatory requirements listed in Table 402B are optional or merely suggestions. These are, in fact, necessary conditions that must be met or exceeded to ensure compliance with Section 402 of the Florida Building Code for Energy Conservation. This includes details such as caulking, weather stripping, and ensuring that certain installations such as ductwork meet specified insulation values.

• Efficiency requirements are uniform across all appliances: There's a misconception that all appliances and systems have a uniform efficiency requirement. The form delineates that different types of heating systems, cooling systems, and water heating systems must meet specific efficiency parameters. These requirements are designed to ensure that the building's energy consumption is efficient and sustainable over time.

Dispelling these misconceptions is crucial for architects, builders, and homeowners alike to comply effectively with the Florida Energy Code. A thorough understanding of the Form 402 and its comprehensive scope facilitates the design and realization of energy-efficient buildings that not only comply with regulations but also promote environmental sustainability.

The Florida Energy Form is essential for demonstrating compliance with Section 402 of the Florida Building Code, Energy Conservation. It applies to various types of residential constructions including single- and multiple-family residences up to three stories, as well as renovations and new heating or cooling systems in existing buildings. Understanding the key aspects of this form ensures that the building project meets the state's energy efficiency standards.

• Scope and Applicability: The form must be used for demonstrating compliance for residential constructions not exceeding three stories. This includes new constructions, additions, and renovations to existing residential buildings, along with the installation of new heating, cooling, and water heating systems in existing buildings, subject to specific energy efficiency requirements and mandatory items listed in Table 402A and 402B of the form.
• Key Requirements: To comply with the form, all "To Be Installed" values must meet or exceed the efficiency requirements specified in Table 402A. Additionally, the completion of Table 402B is necessary to indicate the intent to comply with all applicable mandatory requirements. Compliance with these tables ensures that the construction meets the necessary energy efficiency standards set forth by the Florida Building Code.
• Submission Details: The form requires detailed information regarding the construction project, including the type of construction (new, addition, or existing), building size, glass type and area, insulation values, and the specifications of the heating, cooling, and water heating systems. Accurate and comprehensive completion of this form is crucial for the approval process.
• Compliance Verification: Upon submission, the form undergoes a review to verify that the plans and specifications are in compliance with the Florida Energy Code. Before the completion of construction, an inspection is conducted in accordance with Section 553.908, F.S., to ensure that the building adheres to the submitted form and complies with the energy code. It is essential that the form is prepared accurately and truthfully to avoid any complications during this verification process.

Adherence to the guidelines and requirements outlined in the Florida Energy Form is critical for the successful completion and compliance of residential building projects with the Florida Building Code, Energy Conservation. Proper understanding and application of these guidelines ensure not only regulatory compliance but also contribute to energy conservation and efficiency in residential constructions.