Introduction to Heating and Cooling Load Calculations for Electrification Projects
2026-02-19 09:00 - 11:00 (America/Los_Angeles)
In this webinar, Judy Rachel will explain what a heating and cooling load calculation is and how it provides essential information for the successful implementation of electrification projects. Beyond providing the essential information for properly sizing a residence’s HVAC system, the heating and cooling load calculation informs electrification project design and planning in significant ways. In addition, this presentation will explore the business case for this important planning step within the construction process.

Accurately calculating the heating and cooling loads for a building provides the information necessary to choose appropriately sized space conditioning equipment. When pursuing electrification using right sized, typically, lower capacity HVAC equipment you will frequently negate the need for panel upgrades which provides a significant advantage in electrification projects. This contributes significantly to reducing project costs, while saving on energy consumption and ongoing costs to comfortably condition a given home.

Electrify Efficiently: Operating a Heat Pump – Best Practices to Minimize Call Backs (Part 2 of 5)
2026-02-24 09:00 - 10:30
Heat pumps are inherently different than gas furnaces or gas water heaters. Contractors and other industry professionals must take time to educate customers, clients, and others on these differences to ensure optimal customer satisfaction. This webinar will outline best practices for system operation of ducted and ductless mini-splits, unitary heat pumps, and heat pump water heaters.
Agenda:

Introduction and safety message
Heat pump operation: characteristics and differences with gas furnaces or water heaters
Adding value to the customer journey
Minimizing call backs

The objective of this course is that at the conclusion, participants will be able to:

Explain one reason why heat pumps operate differently than gas furnaces
Name at least two points in the customer journey where education on heat pump operation are essential
Describe proper multi-split system operation in a way a typical customer can understand
Summarize why customer satisfaction is critical to the adoption of heat pumps and home electrification

IHACI: Air Distribution Module (Part 1 of 4)
2026-02-25 18:00 - 21:00 | PG&E Stockton Conference Center, 3136 Boeing Way, Stockton, California
Part 1 of 4 – February 25, 2026 (6pm – 9pm)
Practical Fundamentals and Physical Properties of Air Distribution introduces air distribution fundamentals including key components and their functions, airflow mechanics and system design, air distribution tools and measurement techniques and impact of air noise, friction and pressure loss on system efficiency, and client comfort.
Agenda:

Introduction and safety message
Introduction to air distribution fundamentals
Airflow mechanics and system design
Air distribution tools and measurement techniques

The objective of this course is that at the conclusion, participants will be able to:

Identify the key components of an air distribution system and explain their functions in HVAC performance
Define and apply the correct air velocity limits for residential and commercial ductwork to ensure efficient operation
Calculate target airflow rates based on cooling, heating and ventilation requirements and adjust accordingly
Recognize the impact of air noise, friction and pressure loss on system efficiency and client comfort

Mechanical Rooms: Strategies for Electrification Retrofits in Homes
2026-02-26 09:00 - 12:00
For as long as we’ve built homes we’ve been using some kind of combustion to heat them. As a result, our buildings are designed and constructed to safely manage the operation of gas appliances. In this webinar, Dan Perunko of Balance Point Home Performance will look at mechanical rooms as we transition from gas appliances to electric appliances. There is an opportunity for contractors and designers to offer their clients additional efficiencies beyond those offered by the change to electric appliances. We will identify easily overlooked building enclosure and mechanical changes that can be incorporated into an electrification retrofit project. This three-hour webinar is based on completed projects and will have images of floor plans that illustrate the complexities of combustion appliance mechanical spaces and the opportunities available when they are electrified.

IHACI: Air Distribution Module (Part 2 of 4)
2026-02-26 18:00 - 21:00 | PG&E Stockton Conference Center, 3136 Boeing Way, Stockton, California
Part 2 of 4 – February 26, 2026 (6pm – 9pm)
Practical Fundamentals and Physical Properties of Air Distribution introduces air distribution fundamentals including key components and their functions, airflow mechanics and system design, air distribution tools and measurement techniques and impact of air noise, friction and pressure loss on system efficiency and client comfort.
Agenda:

Introduction and safety message
Advanced duct design methods
Duct design and installation
Practical application of the equal friction method
System commissioning and air balancing

The objective of this course is that at the conclusion, participants will be able to:

Explain different duct design methods, focusing on the Equal Friction method and its application in system design
Apply static pressure rounding and duct sizing rules within the Equal Friction Method for accurate design outcomes
Use a ductulator to determine the dimensions of round and rectangular ducts, air velocity and friction rates needed to meet specific CFM requirements
Demonstrate the seven-step duct design process for residential and commercial HVAC systems including layout and component selection

Electrify Efficiently: Electrical Panel Assessments - Examples for Heat Pump Installers (Part 3 of 5)
2026-03-03 09:00 - 10:30
As more California homeowners begin electrifying their homes, heat pump installers will be faced with the challenge of navigating electrical panel challenges including condition, capacity, fitment, supply chain, etc. With panel and service upgrades being costly and complex, it’s important for practitioners to understand their options for running new circuits. In this session, Electrify My Home will discuss real-world electrical panel scenarios including visual assessments, electrical load calculations, and examples of different solutions to make it work.
Agenda:

Introduction and safety message
Good electrification and install small
Panel assessments and strategies for overcoming challenges
Performing a load calculation

The objective of this course is that at the conclusion, participants will be able to:

Explain why a full panel doesn’t necessarily mean no additional capacity is available
Name two reasons why upgrading a home’s electrical capacity may not be preferred
List two solutions to fitting new circuits into a panel where no physical space is available
Identify at least two or more critical components and variables of performing a load calculation in a residential home

IHACI: Air Distribution Module (Part 3 of 4)
2026-03-04 18:00 - 21:00 | PG&E Stockton Conference Center, 3136 Boeing Way, Stockton, California
Part 3 of 4 – March 4, 2026 (6pm – 9pm)
Fundamental Theory and Techniques of Air Side Design and Installation focuses on commercial duct system construction, system testing and performance evaluation, return air system upgrade and improvement including post-installation checks to verify that they system operates within manufacturer parameters with optimal performance.
Agenda:

Introduction and safety message
Commercial duct system construction
System testing and performance evaluation
Return air system upgrade and improvement

The objective of this course is that at the conclusion, participants will be able to:

Assemble a commercial duct system based on specific design parameters and equipment ratings
Perform initial duct system testing to ensure airflow and pressure meet designed specifications
Implement improvements on the return air side to address performance limitations identified during testing
Conduct post-installation checks to verify that they system operates within manufacturer parameters and achieves optimal performance

Practical and Efficient Hot Water Delivery: Meeting Hot Water Demand with Heat Pump Water Heaters
2026-03-05 09:00 - 12:00
On average Californians consume less water than the residents of other states. Even so there is a need for us to conserve even more water. The construction community has an opportunity to further reduce residential water use in ways that do not feel like conservation to customers. In this class, Dan Perunko of Balance Point Home Performance looks at changing the way hot water is stored and delivered to the tap in residential buildings. The theory behind our approach is called “Structured Plumbing”. This will be a practical class focusing on how to install or modify hot water plumbing following the principles of “Structured Plumbing”. The presentation is based on completed projects including retrofits and new construction.

IHACI: Air Distribution Module (Part 4 of 4)
2026-03-05 18:00 - 21:00 | PG&E Stockton Conference Center, 3136 Boeing Way, Stockton, California
Part 4 of 4 – March 5, 2026 (6pm – 9pm)
Advanced Theory and Techniques of Air Side Design and Installation details continued rebuilding the return air side, upgrading the supply air side, system testing and practical application, diagnosing issues and best practices for system commissioning.
Agenda:

Introduction and safety message
Continued rebuilding the return air side
Upgrading the air supply side
System testing and practical application

The objective of this course is that at the conclusion, participants will be able to:

Redesign and rebuild the supply air side of a duct system to improve airflow and efficiency
Use advanced testing techniques to evaluate the performance of both the supply and return air components
Diagnose issues within the duct system that may reduce system capacity or efficiency
Apply best practices for system commissioning, ensuring all components function within design parameters

Optimizing Ducted Heat Pumps for Residential Electrification: Efficiency Comfort and Low Loss Duct Systems
2026-03-12 09:00 - 12:00
This three hour class will deal with low loss duct systems. The relevant performance factors are: duct leakage, duct conduction, room by room airflow, and system airflow. We will review design, installation and commissioning details as they relate to duct system performance for each of these performance factors. These performance factors can be applied to both conditioning and ventilation system ducts. We have designed, built and commissioned both retrofit and new construction projects that exemplify the concepts covered in class. Course content will include design examples, photos installations, and test results from commissioning.

Electrify Efficiently: Home Heat Pumps Done Right - A Case Study (Part 4 of 5)
2026-03-17 09:00 - 10:30
The path to going all-electric can take many forms. For some, this means upgrading one appliance at a time; for others, it means replacing them all at once and offsetting with on-site solar. Regardless of the timeline, there are some important planning steps that must take place, as well as a continual vision for optimizing efficiency. Join Electrify My Home in this session for a case study of a customer’s electrification journey. You’ll also hear directly from the customer, who will share why they went gas-free, why they chose to pursue efficiency measures, and what bumps in the road were faced on this adventure.
Agenda:

Introduction and safety message
Overview of the Electrify My Home “Electrify Efficiently” webinar series
The electrification path/journey
Things every customer (and contractor) should consider along the way
Electrify My Home customer interview
Class survey, closing and wrap up

The objective of this course is that at the conclusion, participants will be able to:

Describe the planning process every electrification candidate should pursue
Identify the pros and cons of pursuing all gas appliance upgrades at once
Name at least two reasons why Electrify My Home customer chose to focus on efficiency
Explain EMH’s reasoning behind their approach for this customer’s application

Optimizing Ducted Heat Pumps for Residential Electrification: Load Calculations, Equipment Selection, System Airflow and Layout
2026-03-19 09:00 - 12:00
This three hour class will deal with design, equipment choice and layout issues. The relevant performance factors are: system capacity, refrigerant charge and system airflow. We will review design, installation and commissioning details for each of these performance factors. These performance factors can be applied to both conditioning and ventilation system ducts. We have designed, built and commissioned both retrofit and new construction projects that exemplify the concepts covered in class. Course content will include design examples, photos installations, and test results from commissioning.

Electrify Efficiently: Heat Pump Zoning – Challenges and Solutions (Part 5 of 5)
2026-03-24 09:00 - 10:30
Zone control is a popular strategy for addressing different climate zones in a home. Many customers and contractors newer to heat pumps are drawn to multi-split systems that utilize a single outdoor unit to run multiple air handlers, but there can be unintended comfort sacrifices if not done carefully. In this webinar we will focus on various approaches to zone control for efficient and comfortable outcomes. We will compare traditional zoning with zone control, multi-split systems, multiple one-to-one systems, and combinations of these solutions.
Agenda:

Introduction and safety message
Electrify Efficiently
Zone control strategies
Avoiding comfort sacrifices with zone control
Different approaches for zone control to achieve efficient, comfortable outcomes

The objective of this course is that at the conclusion, participants will be able to:

Summarize operational differences between single-stage, two-stage and inverter heat pumps
Name one downside of installing a single multi-split outdoor unit instead of multiple outdoor units
Explain why many mini split brands do not work well with traditional zone control
Describe one scenario where installing a multi-split unit makes sense

Air Handling Unit Fundamentals (Part 1 of 2)
2026-03-31 09:30 - 11:30
Series Description:

This introductory course provides a practical overview of air handling systems and their role within modern HVAC applications. Participants will learn where air handling units (AHUs) fit within the HVAC industry, the types of air handlers commonly used, and how these systems support heating, cooling, ventilation, and indoor air quality. The course explores basic system configurations, key components, zoning concepts, and operational considerations across various building types. Participants are also introduced to energy efficiency strategies, emerging technologies, and maintenance practices that support improved performance, reliability, and energy savings. This course is designed for professionals seeking foundational knowledge of air handling systems and does not require prior design or engineering experience.
The objective of this course is that at the conclusion, participants will be able to:

Describe the role of air handling units in HVAC systems
Identify common types of air handlers and their applications
Recognize major air handler components and their functions
Understand basic system operation and airflow concepts
Identify opportunities to improve system efficiency

Instructor Bio:
Lester Terrance, HVAC/R
Lester has been active in the HVAC industry since 2003, including 12 years in the United State Air Force, seven of those years serving as HVAC Field Supervisor at the US Department of State. He is a licensed Master HVAC in the states of Maryland and Virginia, an EPA Certified Universal Technician, and an Authorized Overseas Certified Technician (Multi-stack). Lester is an HVAC Instructor and subject matter expert. Lester earned his AAS in Mechanical and Electrical Technology in 2013.

Air Handling Unit Fundamentals (Part 2 of 2)
2026-04-01 09:30 - 11:30

Heat Pump Fundamentals: Operation & Installation (Part 1 of 2)
2026-04-07 08:00 - 17:00
Series Description:

Part 1 of 2 – April 7, 2026 (9am – 12pm)
Part 2 of 2 – April 8, 2026 (9am – 12pm)
This comprehensive class taught over two sessions, offers a deep dive into the fundamentals of heat pumps: their origin, capabilities, operation, and fundamentals of installation. During the course, participants will gain practical knowledge and skills necessary for understanding the components, function, operating modes, and fundamentals for installing heat pump systems. The curriculum covers the best practices in the industry. This training is not only an excellent opportunity to build your skills, but also prepares you to earn industry-recognized credentials. This course is designed to prepare attendees for the more advanced High Performance Heat Pumps course.
Agenda:

Introduction and safety message
History of heat pumps
Principles of operation
System components
Modes of operation
Defrost methods
Airflow
Balance point
Secondary heat / emergency heat
Electrical and control wiring
Refrigerant piping
System installation
System evacuation and charging
System performance and efficiency
Dual fuel and geothermal systems
Basic preventive maintenance

The objective of this course is that at the conclusion, participants will be able to:

Explain differences between various types of heat pump systems
Identify system components and their function
Identify basic indoor and outdoor installation requirements
Determine proper refrigerant pipe sizing
Describe three methods commonly used to charge a system: weight, heat and subcooling
Define and calculate a heat pump’s coefficient of performance and its balance point
List the purposes of a secondary/ supplementary heat source and the operation of the emergency heat mode

Heat Pump Fundamentals: Operation & Installation (Part 2 of 2)
2026-04-08 09:00 - 12:00

Air Sealing and Insulating for Electrification Projects: Interpreting and Prioritizing Infrared and Blower Door Results (Part 1 of 3)
2026-04-09 09:00 - 11:00
Course description:

Testing your work is imperative to meet or exceed performance targets and to ensure a feedback loop is in place for continual process improvements. Instructor Dan Perunko of Balance Point Home Performance will highlight two key home performance diagnostic tools, the blower door and infrared camera. The two hour session unpacks important testing metrics and ways to address opportunities that have positive interactive effects on the home’s performance and occupant comfort.
Agenda:

Introduction and safety message
Diagnostic testing for home performance
Blower door and infrared camera basics
Typical opportunities for thermal performance improvement
Safety considerations

The objective of this course is that at the conclusion, participants will be able to:

Describe the operation of diagnostic tools like the blower door and infrared camera
List additional enhancements for commissioning work
Identify areas to prioritize air sealing opportunities in homes
Discuss the ways to manage combustion safety appliance considerations
Identify how targeted air sealing strategies enhance building envelope performance, reduce energy loads, and enable the successful implementation of electrification

Heat Pump Water Heater: Installation, Decision Guidance, and Load Shifting
2026-04-15 09:00 - 12:00
Course description:
This course is part of 2026 Heat Pump Week.
Presented by Nick Brown and Gary Klein, this webinar will look at the best practices for installing a heat pump water in residential homes. This course will help plumbers, builders, architects, homeowners, and home energy consultants understand what is different about heat pump water heaters from the water heaters they are more familiar with, ensuring correct installations. We’ll provide a quick recap of heat pump water heater basics and then explore the retrofit process, beginning from site preparation and installation considerations at the home, to operation and grid flexibility that heat pump water heaters can provide.
The U.S. Department of Energy has recognized this course as part of PG&E Energy Center’s Heat Pump Water Heater program as Energy Skilled in Installation. Energy Skilled heat pump water heater programs include important content to prepare students to install and specify high quality, next generation heat pump water heater systems.
Agenda:

Introduction and safety message
Heat pump water heater basics
Key installation challenges for heat pump water heaters
Installation requirements for electrical, plumbing connections, and condensate drainage
New technological developments for heat pump water heaters
Cold climate HPWHs (split-type)
Heat water heater operational modes
Grid interaction
Class survey, closing and wrap up

The objective of this course is that at the conclusion, participants will be able to:

List key considerations when preparing to replace a gas water heater with a heat pump water heater
Name examples of different heat pump system types, including 120v equipment
Identify the proper installation location for a heat pump water heater system
Summarize the different operating modes of HPWHs
Describe what is a CTA-2045 communication device and how it is used for grid flexibility
Discuss how the operation of a heat pump water heater can be managed using a CTA-2045 device and how heat pump water heaters are used within utility demand response programs

Air Sealing and Insulating for Electrification Projects: Addressing Common Hazards During Energy Upgrades(Part 2 of 3)
2026-04-16 09:00 - 11:00
Course description:

Upgrading the thermal and air leakage performance of existing homes exposes a variety of hazards that many professionals either do not know how to address or how to communicate the importance of the issue to the customer. Estimators and installers, including DIY homeowners, take on additional liability when they fail to identify and remediate existing hazards during upgrade projects. In this two hour class, instructor Dan Perunko of Balance Point Home Performance will cover the most common hazards that are regularly uncovered during energy upgrades and provide some practical strategies for resolving those issues.
Agenda:

Introduction and safety message
What hazards are exposed in typical efficiency upgrades
What is the risk management plan for addressing these hazards
Asbestos insulation
Electrical system faults
Combustion appliance vents and clearance to combustible materials
Combustion appliance vents that do not effectively remove pollutants from the building
Non-IC rated recessed fixtures
Vents that re-entrain gases or moisture in the building
Biological growth on building surfaces
Impact of realigning the air barrier or thermal boundary

The objective of this course is that at the conclusion, participants will be able to:

Identify three or more common hazards that may be uncovered during energy upgrades
List two or more repairs to mitigate common electrical hazards that are uncovered during energy upgrades
Identify the difference between fixtures which can be safely sealed with conventional air sealing material, and those that require high temperature sealant or treatments
Learn one or more key differences between combustion appliances that have single wall metal, double wall metal and plastic vent systems
Identify how targeted air sealing strategies enhance building envelope performance, reduce energy loads, and enable the successful implementation of electrification

Electric Heat Pumps for Water Heating
2026-04-21 09:00 - 12:00
Course description:

As our electricity supply becomes cleaner, due to an increased use of renewables for generation and a growing number of local ordinances prohibiting gas installs in new homes, electricity becomes an attractive fuel source to designers and builders interested in reducing residential greenhouse gas emissions and creating zero carbon homes.
Dan Perunko of Balance Point Home Performance will present on efficiency gains, and overcoming common installation pitfalls from electric heat pump water heaters in new and existing buildings. Class discussion will cover the advantages and limitations of these systems, the available technology and refrigerant types, as well as features such as load flexing.
The U.S. Department of Energy has recognized this course as part of PG&E Energy Center’s Heat Pump Water Heater program as Energy Skilled in Installation. Energy Skilled heat pump water heater programs include important content to prepare students to install and specify high quality, next generation heat pump water heater systems.
Agenda:

Introduction and safety message
Heat pumps water heaters (HPHW) overview
HPWH lab performance data
HPWH and solar thermal systems
HPWH and space heating systems
HPWH with CO₂ as a refrigerant
HPWH demand response strategy and efficiency
Importance of efficient plumbing distribution system

The objective of this course is that at the conclusion, participants will be able to:

Summarize the performance parameters of electric heat pump water heaters
Discuss the relationship between heat pump water heaters, solar thermal systems and space heating systems
Name at least two factors that have interactive efficiency gains of a plumbing distribution system
List the impact of refrigerants and ways to guard against refrigerant leaks
Explain the importance of a demand response strategy and its relationship to efficiency

Air Sealing and Insulating for Electrification Projects: Developing a Work Scope for Attic Efficiency Upgrades (Part 3 of 3)
2026-04-23 09:00 - 11:00
Course description:

Effective work scopes help contractors and customers achieve specific performance goals in a home’s attic efficiency upgrade. Developing a comprehensive, goal oriented work scope can help contractors sell more jobs, differentiate their work from other contractors bidding on the job, and enables customers to prioritize their home upgrades within their budget, allowing for the possibility of future improvements. In this session, Dan Perunko of Balance Point Home Performance will draw upon his contractor experience to discuss how he approaches attic efficiency work scopes, from demolition, material selection and installation, to commissioning.
Agenda:

Introduction and safety message
How is high performance a different business model
Setting your company standards
How to define cost effective
Identify the outcomes the customer would like to achieve
Defining outcomes in the work scope
Developing costs for specific outcomes
Using options to define good, better, best
Using notes to clarify limits of what work accomplishes
Negotiating the outcomes in the work scope

The objective of this course is that at the conclusion, participants will be able to:

Specify at least three or more performance outcomes the work scope helps define
Explain one or more ways that a high performance work scope is different from an industry standard sale process
Synthesize the home performance outcomes the customer would like to achieve
Describe one or more examples of how to itemize the work scope to facilitate a better understanding of cost segregation
Identify how targeted air sealing strategies enhance building envelope performance, reduce energy loads, and enable the successful implementation of electrification

Electrify Efficiently: Electrification Opportunities for General Contractors & Architects
2026-04-28 09:00 - 10:30
Course description:

Electrification is now the leading option for new buildings and major retrofit projects in California. 70+ municipalities have policies to phase out gas appliances and the state aims to have six million heat pumps installed by 2030. This will require a major paradigm shift in the way builders, architects, and related professionals approach the market. It also presents a giant opportunity to frame yourself or your business as an electrification expert. In this session, Electrify My Home will discuss this transition and the related business opportunity for specifying and installing well-designed all-electric buildings.

Crawlspace Retrofits in Electrification Projects: Air Sealing and Insulating
2026-04-30 09:00 - 12:00
Part 1 of 2
Crawlspaces come in all shapes and sizes including shallow or hillside, and crawlspaces adjacent to conditioned spaces. The geometry of a crawlspace is an important factor when deciding where to establish a continuous air barrier. Ultimately the insulation will follow and remain aligned with that air barrier. In this course, Dan Perunko of Balance Point Home Performance will present air sealing and insulating strategies for various crawlspace types, along with the myriad benefits effective crawlspace solutions provide for the occupants and the home.
Agenda:

Introduction and safety message
Understanding the geometry of the crawlspace
Using test tools identifying leakage and understanding their limitations
Air barrier alignment for vented and unvented crawlspaces
Implications for equipment make-up air in unvented crawlspaces
Creating continuity in the crawlspace
Strategies for air sealing leaks in the subfloor
Air sealing around plumbing fixtures that may require future maintenance
Removing abandoned or soon-to-be abandoned mechanical equipment that interfaces with the subfloor air barrier
Air sealing electrical systems and conduits that pass through the subfloor
Addressing air leakage at masonry fireplaces that pass though the subfloor

The objective of this course is that at the conclusion, participants will be able to:

Cite areas where the crawlspace air barrier typically lacks continuity
Identify tests to assess the continuity of the air barrier
List examples of crawlspace subfloor penetrations that require an air sealing method that can be undone if maintenance is needed
Name alternatives to batt insulation in the subfloor
Explain key benefits to air isolating a vented crawlspace from the conditioned spaces
Summarize post-retrofit testing strategies for continuity and thermal performance

Electrify Efficiently: Electrification Opportunities for Plumbers
2026-05-05 09:00 - 10:30
Course description:

Electrification is taking form in California. Gas water heaters are being phased out in the Bay Area by 2027 and over 70 municipalities have policies phasing out gas appliances. The massive transition from gas to electric will spark giant demand for all trades, including plumbers. In this session, Electrify My Home will introduce unique business opportunities for plumbers with a focus on heat pump water heaters, strategies for collaborating with other trades (e.g., electricians), and the importance of comprehensive electrification planning.
The U.S. Department of Energy has recognized this course as part of PG&E Energy Center’s Heat Pump Water Heater program as Energy Skilled in Installation. Energy Skilled heat pump water heater programs include important content to prepare students to install and specify high quality, next generation heat pump water heater systems.
Agenda:

Introduction and safety message
Electrification market in California and PG&E service territory
Gas water heater phase out
Electrification opportunities in California
Heat pump water heaters and the electrical grid

The objective of this course is that at the conclusion, participants will be able to:

Summarize importance of Electrify My Home’s approach to good electrification
Name at least two factors driving the market for electric water heaters
Describe one feature of gas water heaters that’s lead to their phase out
Be aware of the percentage of California homes with a gas water heater
Explain why heat pump water heaters can be helpful for the electrical grid

Electrify Efficiently: Electrification Opportunities for Plumbers
2026-05-05 09:00 - 10:30
Electrification is taking form in California. Gas water heaters are being phased out in the Bay Area by 2027 and over 70 municipalities have policies phasing out gas appliances. The massive transition from gas to electric will spark giant demand for all trades, including plumbers. In this session, Electrify My Home will introduce unique business opportunities for plumbers with a focus on heat pump water heaters, strategies for collaborating with other trades (e.g., electricians), and the importance of comprehensive electrification planning.
The U.S. Department of Energy has recognized this course as part of PG&E Energy Center’s Heat Pump Water Heater program as Energy Skilled in Installation. Energy Skilled heat pump water heater programs include important content to prepare students to install and specify high quality, next generation heat pump water heater systems.
Agenda:

Introduction and safety message
Electrification market in California and PG&E service territory
Gas water heater phase out
Electrification opportunities in California
Heat pump water heaters and the electrical grid

The objective of this course is that at the conclusion, participants will be able to:

Summarize importance of Electrify My Home’s approach to good electrification
Name at least two factors driving the market for electric water heaters
Describe one feature of gas water heaters that’s lead to their phase out
Be aware of the percentage of California homes with a gas water heater
Explain why heat pump water heaters can be helpful for the electrical grid

2025 California Energy Code and Passive House
2026-05-06 09:00 - 11:30
Part 1 of 9
This course will provide an overview of how the 2025 California Title 24, Part 6 code addresses Passive House concepts. We will look at basic Passive House principles, methodology, and performance targets, focusing on electrification goals and how they relate to the updated California codes. The class will illustrate the goals, strategies, and results with regional case studies.
Agenda:

Introduction and safety message
Passive House introduction
Title 24, Part 6 Code updates
Case studies

The objective of this course is that at the conclusion, participants will be able to:

Explain Passive House principles and benefits
Describe relevant California Code updates
Outline strategies for building design and construction to meet Passive House and new code requirements
Describe case studies of homes that achieve all-electric code-compliant Passive House outcomes and the strategies and outcomes

Demystifying Industrial Heat Pumps
2026-05-06 10:00 - 12:00
Industrial heat pumps are a mature and well-researched process heating technology with over 30 years of proven application. They can efficiently deliver hot water and steam to industrial processes in a variety of configurations. Despite their technical maturity, widespread adoption has been limited by economic factors, low awareness, workforce constraints, and the persistence of fossil fuel infrastructure.
This introductory class for industrial plant operators and engineers will cover:

How industrial heat pumps work
The current market landscape and availability
Key barriers and opportunities for market transformation
The role of policy, utility programs, grid planning, and other market actions in accelerating deployment
Resources for evaluating whether an industrial heat pump is a good fit for your operations

Crawlspace Retrofits in Electrification Projects: Health Benefits, Moisture Management, and Wildfire Safety
2026-05-07 09:00 - 12:00
Part 2 of 2
Many existing crawlspaces require remediation prior to other energy upgrade work, including attic or electrification upgrades. This course examines retrofits of vented and unvented crawlspaces, tradeoffs between each crawlspace assembly, and the crawlspace assembly’s impact on the home’s overall performance and comfort. From home durability to occupant safety and comfort, Dan Perunko of Balance Point Home Performance will address moisture and vapor sources, rodent control, as well as strategies to reduce wildfire ember intrusion.
Agenda:

Introduction and safety message
Understanding the phases of water and how it is transported
Prioritizing and mitigating sources of moisture
Removing accumulated debris and abandoned systems
Reviewing current common practices
Decision to vent or not to vent and evaluate all the existing conditions
Updating existing foundation vent to reduce wildfire ember intrusion
Addressing weather proofing on existing foundation vents
Reduced foundation venting
Converting a vented crawlspace to a sealed crawlspace
Addressing abandoned foundation vent holes
Air leakage control implications
Recladding the skirt to achieve multiple outcomes
Testing the assembly

The objective of this course is that at the conclusion, participants will be able to:

Prioritize source control of moisture in crawlspaces
Define how water in liquid or vapor form is transported
Name performance tests that can be used to evaluate the moisture balance of the crawlspace
Explain performance problems associated with typical foundation vents
Describe ways to improve wildfire resistance by updating the foundation vent strategy
List an example of a crawl space type that is not well suited for converting to a sealed crawlspace
Discuss methods for addressing abandoned foundation vents
Explain the difference between a vapor barrier and an air barrier
State why a consumer might choose to upgrade from a basic unsealed plastic layer in the crawlspace
Identify ways to test the performance of a plastic layer that is serving as an air barrier in the crawlspace
Summarize the real world benefits of installs of ground cover to meet different performance outcomes

All-Electric Retrofits with Electrical Panel Constraints
2026-05-12 11:00 - 12:30
The building industry needs to electrify buildings at a fast pace if cities and counties are to meet their carbon emissions goals. One of the obstacles commonly cited for keeping status quo gas systems in place is limited space in the electric panel serving the building. In this intermediate webinar Nick Brown and Robert Fortunato will cover how electric panels are sized according to the electrical code and demonstrate tools to double check those calculations. Options for making existing electric panels work will be covered, including circuit sharing devices, and innovative solutions for HVAC, clothes washing, hot water, cooking, EV charging, PV and battery systems. Often the existing electrical panel is adequate for a fully electric home, and we will equip attendees with the knowledge to evaluate this key decision for themselves.
