ANSWERS:
1. The 2012 IECC Code has raised the bar on performance, and will be…
a. approximately 30% more stringent than the 2006 version
b. approximately 15% more stringent than the 2006 version
c. approximately 30% more stringent than the 2009 version
d. approximately 25% more stringent than the 2003 version
Correct answer: A
The 2012 IECC Code will be approximately 30% more stringent than the 2006 IECC. While historically codes aimed at single-digit percentage performance or efficiency increases, 2009 IECC targeted double-digit gains, aiming to be 15% more stringent than 2006 IECC. 2012 aims for a 30% improvement over IECC 2006; the proposed 2015 IECC is targeting a 50% improvement beyond 2006 performance.
2. Major changes for 2012 include…
a. removal of prohibition on envelope-equipment trade-offs
b. mandatory whole-house pressure test, more stringent duct leakage test, and DHW distribution system requirements
c. no change to fenestration prescriptive codes
d. rigid foam board no longer an acceptable insulation strategy for non-finished basements
Correct answer: B
Major changes in the 2012 IECC over the 2009 IECC include mandatory whole-house pressure testing, more stringent duct leakage tests, and DHW distribution system requirements. Additionally, the 2012 IECC has been consolidated with the IRC energy chapter, making IRC Chapter 11 identical to applicable 2011 IECC provisions. The building envelope is a heavy focus for 2012 requirements, setting insulation and fenestration levels as well as paying attention to infiltration control through caulking and sealing, as well as testing.
3. Slab-on-grade requirements now include:
a. R-5 added to R-value for heated slab
b. R-10 for 2′ in climate zones 4 and 5
c. R-10 for 4′ in climate zones 6 through 8
d. all of the above
Correct answer: D
Highlighting the increased importance and attention paid to the building envelope, for slabs with a floor surface <12” below grade, an R-10 (typically 2”) insulation is required in climate zones 4 and above. Slab edge insulation must extend downward from top of slab a minimum of 24” (zones 4 and 5) or 48” (zones 6,7, and 8). Insulation can be vertical or extend horizontally under the slab or out from the building. Insulation extending outward must be under 10” of soil or pavement. For heated slabs, an additional R-5 is required, with an insulation depth of the footing or 2 feet, whichever is less, in zones 1-3.
4. Maximum fenestration U-factor is now…?
a. 0.30 in all climate zones
b. 0.30 in climate zones 2-4 and 0.32 in climate zones 5-8
c. 0.40 in climate zone 2, 0.35 in climate zones 3-4, and 0.32 in climate zones 5-8
d. subject to NFRC requirements
Correct answer: C
2012 IECC made major changes to fenestration requirements, so builders will have to assess new maximum U-factor and solar heat-gain coefficients (SHGC) for their particular climate zone. Marine climate zones have special exemptions noted in the code. Prescriptive requirements are found in Table 402.1.1 of the 2012 IECC.
5.There are new requirements for R-3 or better pipe insulation on most types of hot-water pipes.
a. true
b. false
Correct answer: True
Requirements for pipe insulation mean reduction of temperature change in the water between heating point and delivery point. Insulation keeps the water in the pipes hotter with less initial energy input, thus saving energy and reducing operating costs. Owing to its increased focus on DHW distribution, the 2012 IECC requires piping associated with service hot water systems to be insulated to a minimum of R-3.
6. 2012 IECC Section 401.3 Mandatory Requirement certificate on panel box must include…?
a. Major component R-values
b. FSC certifications
c. U-factor, SHGC of Windows
d. both answers a & c
Correct answer: D
This required certificate must appear on the breaker panel, in the attic next to the attic insulation card, or inside a kitchen cabinet, and must include major component (insulation installed in or on ceiling, roof, walls, foundation and ducts outside conditioned spaces) R-values, U-factor and SHGC of windows, equipment efficiencies, duct and envelope testing results, and a load calculation summary. Appendix 1A contains a sample certificate for reference.
7. Under 2012 IECC Lighting equipment: 75% of lamps must be high-efficacy lamps, or 75% of lighting fixtures must be only high-efficacy lamps.?
a. true
b. false
Correct answer: True
The 2012 IECC raises the requirement of high-efficacy lamps to a 75% minimum, up from the 50% requirement found in 2009’s IECC. High-efficacy lamps may be a compact fluorescent lamp (CFL), a T8 or smaller linear fluorescent lamp, or any lamp meeting minimum efficiency requirements. 2012 minimum efficiency requirements are: 60 lumens per watt for lamps over 40 watts, 50 lumens per watt for lamps 15 watts to 40 watts, and 40 lumens per watt for lamps rated at 15 watts or less. Refer to section R404.1 (2012 IECC) for further details.
8. Under the 2012 IECC, blower-door testing requirements are not mandatory.
a. true
b. false
Correct answer: False
Per section R402.4.1.2 of 2012 IECC, which also provides mandated maximum acceptable air leakage rates, every new home must pass a blower-door test. The 2009 IECC allowed builders to either follow a checklist of air tightness requirements or have the home tested with a blower door. 2012 does away with that option, and mandates both an air-sealing checklist (Table R402.4.1.1) and a blower-door test.
9. 2012 IECC blower-door test requirements mandate…?
a. only the 2009 threshold of 7 ach50
b. 5 ach50 for climate zones 1 and 2, and 3 ach50 for homes in all other zones
c. 3 ach50
d. 5 ach50
Correct answer: B
For more details, see the DOE Building Technologies Program Air Leakage Guide
10. Under 2012 IECC, whole-house mechanical ventilation systems are required…
a. in all homes
b. in climate zones 5-8
c. in climate zones 3-8, and some homes in climate zones 1-2
d. in certain homes taking the prescriptive path
e. they’re not required in IECC
This was a trick question! The 2012 IECC does not have specific requirements in and of itself for mechanical ventilation; rather, it refers the builder to IRC or IMC approved means. Fan efficacy is laid out by the 2012 IECC, and can be found in Table R403.5.1. Nevertheless, in areas complying with the 2012 IRC, any new home with a blower-door test result of less than 5.0 ach50 must include a whole-house ventilation system (2012 IRC M1507.3). Since the 2012 IECC prescribes air leakage of 3 or less ach50, excluding climate zones 1 and 2, if effectively mandates whole-house ventilation.
How to interpret your score:
- 9-10 correct: Excellent! Take a close look in the mirror — you could be an energy nerd.
- 7-8 correct: Pretty good. You are a solid code-watcher who has an energy efficiency habit. If you are not already doing so, you are ready to build to the 2012 code.
- 5-6 correct: Needs improvement. If your jurisdiction steps up its compliance, they you are in danger of getting caught flat-footed, which will cost you money in the short run and market share in the long run. Get up to speed now.
Fewer than 5 correct: #FAIL. We sincerely hope you build in Oklahoma, where the adopted code is the 2003 energy code.
— Amanda Voss, MPP, is an author, editor, and policy analyst based in Denver, Colorado. In addition to public policy work, she has served on the board of Energy Literacy Advocates, spent 6 years in residential construction, and has taught AIA classes on fenestration.
