Efficiency First California

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

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

2025 Energy Code in Practice: Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
2026-04-08 09:30 - 11:00
Event Description
Sorting through tables and reading the fine print in the energy code may get you the specific language of the code, but what does that really mean in practice? In this series, we’ll walk through key components for each building occupancy type, providing sample details, photos of installations and potential pitfalls to avoid. Highlighting 2025 changes throughout, this course is intended for designers, builders and building officials. Bring your questions and join in the discussion.
a. Single Family Residential (SFR)
b. SFR Additions + Alterations
c. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU’s) – THIS COURSE!
d. Multi-family Residential
e. Non-Residential
Learning Objectives

Understand the metrics and standards used in the energy code for evaluating energy performance and indoor air quality, and how choices for electric or gas equipment may impact compliance with those standards.
Within each building type, review key mandatory measures related to energy performance, ventilation, refrigerants and insulation and review potential challenges for integration into design and construction.
Review the prescriptive “recipe card” approach versus a building performance approach and discuss when to use each strategy to best incorporate energy efficiency and healthy interior environments into the specific project design.
Recognize where barriers or stumbling blocks may occur within permitting and construction and tips for documentation to smooth out the process, ultimately increasing the energy efficiency, health and safety of our buildings.

Learning Units

1.5 AIA LUs will apply for this course
0.15 ICC CEUs will apply for this course
1.50 CEA CEUs will apply for this course

Instructors
Jennifer Rennick, In Balance Green Consulting
Grant Murphy, In Balance Green Consulting
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

High Temperature and Hydronic Heat Pump Manufacturers Roundtable
2026-04-08 10:00 - 11:30
Several building types rely upon high-temperature (180F+) water for processes like hydronic space heating, final-cycle dishwashing, and sanitization. Until recently, heat pump technology was limited to lower temperature applications. But the heat pump market is evolving rapidly, and several products capable of producing 180F to 194F are now available for multifamily and commercial buildings like hospitals, gyms, and breweries.

Join us on April 8th at 10am Pacific to hear from high-temp heat pump manufacturers and learn more about this exciting emerging technology.

South Bay Contractor Heat Pump Water Heater Training and Forum
2026-04-09 08:30 - 11:30 | Pipe Trades Training Center, 780 Commercial Street, San Jose, CA, 95112, United States
Overview

Join us in the South Bay for the latest information on programs and trainings to sell, install, and service heat pump water heaters

Join us for the South Bay Contractor Heat Pump Water Heater Forum and Training!
This training is organized by BayREN, the County of Santa Clara Office of Sustainability and Resilience, the County of San Mateo Sustainability Department, and in partnership with Pipes Trade Training Center.
Whether you’re a pro or just starting out, this is the perfect chance to sharpen your skills and hear about up-to-date program and incentive information.
Don’t miss out on the hands-on heat pump water heater installation and servicing training sessions by Rheem and Bradford White along with lively discussions on how to sell the technology to your customers, myths about electrification, identify best practices, and share solutions on difficult installations.
See you there!
*Disclaimer: By attending this event, you are consenting to be in photos that may be used for promotional materials. If you would not like to be photographed, advise staff and they will provide you with a badge and designated seating.

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

2026 National Home Performance Conference & Trade Show
2026-04-13 - 2026-04-16 | Greater Columbus Convention Center, 400 N High St., Columbus, OH, 43215, United States
For four decades, the National Home Performance Conference has been a launching pad for ideas, partnerships, and real progress in home performance, weatherization, and healthy housing. This milestone year is about more than looking back—it’s about building on the momentum we’ve created together and shaping the future.
Join us in Columbus in 2026 as thousands of contractors, weatherization professionals, healthy homes experts, trainers, program administrators, energy auditors, and others in residential energy efficiency gather for the latest industry education and networking.

National Home Performance Conference & Trade Show
2026-04-13 08:00 - 2026-04-16 17:00 | Greater Columbus Convention Center, 400 N High St., Columbus, OH, 43215, United States

How to Size Your Heat Pump: Intro to Manual J Using Kwik Model 3D
2026-04-13 12:00 - 13:00
Part 1 of a Two-Part Series (Manual J + Manual D)
This practical webinar kicks off a two-part series on getting heat pump performance right—starting with Manual J, the industry standard for residential heating and cooling load calculations. You’ll learn why “rules of thumb” often miss the mark with heat pumps, what inputs actually drive the loads (envelope, windows, infiltration, ducts, and design conditions), and how to interpret the outputs that directly influence equipment selection. We’ll also show a streamlined workflow using Kwik Model 3D to quickly build a simple home model and generate the takeoffs needed to support an accurate, repeatable Manual J—without getting lost in complexity. By the end, you’ll feel confident understanding what drives sizing decisions and how to avoid comfort issues, high bills, and unnecessary backup heat.
Key Takeaways
✅ Why heat pumps need tighter sizing
✅ Manual J basics: design temps, sensible/latent, loads
✅ Biggest load drivers: envelop, leakage, ducts, etc.
✅ Read outputs to pick capacity + airflow
✅ Kwik Model 3D workflow for fast takeoffs
About the Instructors Spencer Rosen is a leading home energy expert & educator, founder of Home Energy Academy, and a recognized thought leader in energy efficiency, HVAC performance, and electrification. Russell King, M.E. is the creator of Kwik Model 3D and a specialist in HVAC design and diagnostics, home energy rating systems, and California energy codes.

Ask the Experts: No More Heat Pump Headaches!
2026-04-14 08:00 - 09:00
Event Description
Bring your toughest “no” and your real-world roadblocks to this interactive session about any and all electrification projects. Your questions from the field, your trickiest case studies, and your difficult client scenarios will take the center stage during this engaging session. Whether you’re stuck on a brain-bending system design or struggling to get through to a skeptical customer, this is your chance to get direct feedback and tried-and-true strategies from one of the best electrification contractors in the state, Larry Waters of Electrify My Home.
Instructor
Larry Waters, Electrify My Home
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

NCI: Residential HVAC System Performance Certification Program Part 1 – The Key Elements of HVAC System Performance
2026-04-14 08:00 - 17:00 | NCI Training Center, 2050 S Santa Cruz St, Anaheim, California, 92805
Course & Workshop Details

Two-Day Workshop Dates: (In-Person / Anaheim)
Part 1 – Tue April 14, 2026 (8am – 5pm)
Part 2 – Wed April 15, 2026 (8am – 5pm)
To register online & more information CLICK HERE or call 800-633-7058
Description:
In this two-day certification course, HVAC professionals will learn how to discover and repair hidden energy-draining comfort system defects, reduce call-backs and increase customer satisfaction. Attendees will learn NCI’s exclusive System Delivered BTU method, test both new and existing installations and provide real solutions through system renovations and documented results.
Part 1 will review a typical HVAC system and examine static pressure and airflow measurements, diagnostics, and repairs to improve system performance. Learn static pressure, airflow, and temperature testing principles along with verifying BTUs at the equipment and registers.
Day 1 Course Objectives:
• Review the typical sales call and its shortcomings
• Overview of test methods to identify performance issues
• Test instruments review – the good, the bad and the ugly
• Testing principles of static pressure, airflow and temperature
• Airflow testing and verification methods
• Static pressure measurement – a key diagnostic tool
• Measuring dry bulb temperatures and diagnostic properties
• Understanding total system performance
• Introduction to ComfortMaxx™ QuickTest™ software*
Target Audience:
• Energy Improvement Contractors
• Energy Raters
• HVAC Contractors / Professionals
• HVAC Technicians
• NCI Certified Air Balancers
Learning Units:
Qualified individuals may be eligible for NATE CEU’s, BPI & most State CEUs.
Learning Level:
Intermediate Class: Content is appropriate for individuals who possess a fundamental understanding of the topic, and have familiarity with basic terminology and methodology of the subject matter. Attendees should have the capacity to participate in instructor-led exercises requiring synthesis and application of concepts.
Special Instructions: (Must attend both days unless re-certifying)
This class is *fee-based $100 and includes Parts 1 & 2, workbooks and lunch. For re-certification, you must attend Part 2 (*fee-based $50/class only, no exam).
Registration: To register by phone contact NCI Customer Care at 800-633-7058.
To register online & more information CLICK HERE
Visit NCI Training Schedule at http://www.ncilink.com/sceschedule
Please Note: *Must work within SCE territory to qualify for reduced registration fee as stated. Training is open to contractors outside of the SCE territory, however, full registration fee is required to participate in this program.

How to Design Your Duct System for a Heat Pump: Intro to Manual D Using Kwik Model 3D
2026-04-14 12:00 - 13:00
Part 2 of a Two-Part Series (Manual J + Manual D)
Great heat pump outcomes depend on the duct system delivering the right airflow to the right rooms—quietly and consistently. With heat pumps, comfort is often more dependent on distribution than “blasting” very hot air, which makes duct design a primary driver of success. In this session, you’ll learn the “why” behind Manual D and the duct design choices that most affect airflow, comfort, and noise—layout strategy, return design, fitting losses/effective length, and managing static pressure. You’ll also see how to translate Manual J room-by-room loads into a practical duct design concept, and how Kwik Model 3D can help visualize the home, support planning, and connect design intent to install-ready decisions.
Key Takeaways
✅ Why ducts matter more with heat pumps
✅ Manual D basics: airflow, friction, static pressure
✅ Duct layouts that balance rooms better
✅ Return strategies that cut noise + improve comfort
✅ Turn room loads into an install-ready duct plan
About the Instructors Spencer Rosen is a leading home energy expert & educator, founder of Home Energy Academy, and a recognized thought leader in energy efficiency, HVAC performance, and electrification. Russell King, M.E. is the creator of Kwik Model 3D and a specialist in HVAC design and diagnostics, home energy rating systems, and California energy codes.

NCI: Residential HVAC System Performance Certification Program Part 2 – Measure, Diagnose and Improve Poor System Performance
2026-04-15 08:00 - 17:00 | NCI Training Center, 2050 S Santa Cruz St, Anaheim, California, 92805
Course & Workshop Details

Two-Day Workshop Dates: (In-Person / Anaheim)
Part 1 – Tue April 14, 2026 (8am – 5pm)
Part 2 – Wed April 15, 2026 (8am – 5pm)
To register online & more information CLICK HERE or call 800-633-7058
Description:
In this two-day certification course, HVAC professionals will learn how to discover and repair hidden energy-draining comfort system defects, reduce call-backs and increase customer satisfaction. Attendees will learn NCI’s exclusive System Delivered BTU method, test both new and existing installations and provide real solutions through system renovations and documented results.
Part 2 will cover test methods, calculations and measuring airflow using NCI’s 3 test methods: Static Pressure with Fan Tables, Balancing Hood, and Duct Traverse. Attendees will learn temperature, humidity, and enthalpy measurements along with equipment BTUs versus delivered BTUs. The day will conclude with NCI’s exclusive Residential HVAC System Performance certification exam.
Day 2 Course Objectives:
• Review of test methods, measurement and calculations
• Temperature, humidity and enthalpy measurement
• Equipment BTUs versus delivered BTUs at the registers
• Measuring airflow using NCI’s 3 test methods: Static Pressure/Fan Tables, Balancing Hood and Duct Traverse
• Rating operating HVAC system performance
• Sharing findings with customers in easy to understand terms
• Air distribution system renovation and repair
• Review ComfortMaxx™ QuickTest™ and full test-in and test-outsoftware*
Target Audience:
• Energy Improvement Contractors
• Energy Raters
• HVAC Contractors / Professionals
• HVAC Technicians
• NCI Certified Air Balancers
Learning Units:
Qualified individuals may be eligible for NATE CEU’s, BPI & most State CEUs.
Learning Level:
Intermediate Class: Content is appropriate for individuals who possess a fundamental understanding of the topic, and have familiarity with basic terminology and methodology of the subject matter. Attendees should have the capacity to participate in instructor-led exercises requiring synthesis and application of concepts.
Special Instructions: (Must attend both days unless re-certifying)
This class is *fee-based $100 and includes Parts 1 & 2, workbooks and lunch. For re-certification, you must attend Part 2 (*fee-based $50/class only, no exam).
Registration: To register by phone contact NCI Customer Care at 800-633-7058.
To register online & more information CLICK HERE
Visit NCI Training Schedule at http://www.ncilink.com/sceschedule
Please Note: *Must work within SCE territory to qualify for reduced registration fee as stated. Training is open to contractors outside of the SCE territory, however, full registration fee is required to participate in this program.

Power Up Your Skills: Commercial Heat Pump Water Heater Training & Trade Fair
2026-04-15 08:30 - 13:00 | Pipe Trades Training Center, 780 Commercial Street, San Jose, CA, 95112, United States
Overview

Join us for an immersive learning experience focused on commercial heat pump water heaters.

Boost your expertise in commercial heat pump water heaters (CHPWHs) with training and direct access to top manufacturers. This special event features a presentation from a leading thinker in Research and Design at a firm pioneering CHPWH installations, along with interactive training, and a manufacturer trade fair during Heat Pump Week.
Whether you’re new to commercial HPWHs or sharpening your skills, this event is built for the trades. Join us for an immersive learning experience in the future of water heating.
Brought to you by PG&E Energy Centers, Pipe Trades, New Buildings Institute, and the Advanced Water Heating Initiative.
Sponsored by PG&E Energy Centers.
Objectives – participants will be able to:

Receive an overview of commercial heat pump water heater technology
Gain training on how to design, size, and install a CHPWH system
Learn about the different types of CHPWH systems (central, small commercial packaged, and more)
Explore CHPWH technology and have questions answered directly by manufacturers

BayREN C&S Training: Introduction to CALGreen
2026-04-15 09:00 - 10:30
This training is designed to equip building department staff with a clear understanding of the California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) and its role in advancing sustainability within the state’s building sector. Participants will be introduced to the core requirements, terminology, and objectives of CALGreen, providing a clear understanding of its application in both residential and non-residential construction projects. The course will also highlight key mandatory and voluntary code provision updates introduced in the 2025 CALGreen code, ensuring participants are current with the latest standards. By the end of the course, participants will be able to identify key components and triggers of CALGreen, understand the compliance and enforcement process, and recognize how CALGreen contributes to statewide and local environmental and energy-efficiency goals.
ICC CEUs: 0.1
Information you provide when registering may be used by BayREN or the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) as part of collecting or verifying program data and metrics. BayREN will not under any circumstances sell your information for commercial purposes.

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

3-Day Residential Space Conditioning and Water Heating Electrification
2026-04-20 08:30 - 2026-04-22 16:30 | TBD, San Jose
Electrify My Home, a leader in efficient home electrification, is offering a three-day training on Residential Space Conditioning and Water Heating Electrification. This course provides hands-on experience, best practices, and insights into emerging regulations and rebates, equipping professionals to meet the growing demand for clean energy solutions.

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

Designing for Decarbonization
2026-04-21 09:00 - 13:00
Course Description: This is an online class
Want to know more about what it means to achieve “decarbonization” for your building project? Understand the definition of decarbonization, zero net energy (ZNE), and zero net carbon (ZNC) buildings, see case studies of completed projects, and understand the design and construction process necessary to achieve high-performance buildings. Learn about important market trends around energy efficiency, green building code requirements, proven and emerging technologies, operational best practices, and real-world case studies in the built environment as well as give resources and tools to set building owners, operators, and end users up for success. The workshop will provide tangible next steps for how we can all contribute and shift toward a decarbonized future.
Learning Outcomes:

Understand the definition of Decarbonization
Learn how to achieve zero carbon in a commercial building
View case studies of zero and low carbon strategies in projects
Understand various technologies and operational best practices that contribute to decarbonization

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

Residential HVAC Design for Quality Installation Using ACCA Manuals J®, S®, D® & T® Day 1 – Manual J: Residential Design
2026-04-28 08:00 - 16:30 | Energy Education Center Tulare, 4175 Laspina St., Tulare, 93274, United States
Course & Workshop Details

Three-Day Workshop Dates: (In-Person / Tulare)
Day 1 – Tue. Apr 28, 2026
Day 2 – Wed. Apr 29, 2026
Day 3 – Thur. Apr 30, 2026
Description:
This first day will lay the foundation for understanding residential HVAC load calculations, ensuring participants are well-equipped to proceed with more advanced concepts in the following sessions.
Agenda:

Introduction to Heat Transfer
Measurement Essentials
Guidelines and Limitations
Design Conditions
Fenestration Analysis
Opaque Surfaces
Duct System Loads
Manual J Speed-Sheet Walk-Through

Instructor: Russ King – licensed Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience practicing and teaching in the areas of Residential HVAC design, diagnostics, and consulting, as well as energy codes and building science.
Target Audience:
• HVAC Contractors / Technicians
• HVAC Designers / Architects
• HVAC Comfort & Advisors
• Energy Consultants
• HERS Raters
Learning Units: This 3-day course qualifies for 24 NATE and 12 BPI CEUs
Learning Level:
Intermediate Class: Content is appropriate for individuals who possess a fundamental understanding of the topic and have familiarity with basic terminology and methodology of the subject matter. Attendees should have the capacity to participate in instructor-led exercises requiring synthesis and application of concepts.
Special Instructions:
Registration: To register online with ACCA, CLICK HERE
For questions or to register by phone call 703-775-4477
For more information visit: https://www.acca.org/certification/residential-design/rdqi
Training Time: 8:30am – 4:30pm with lunch.

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.

Residential HVAC Design for Quality Installation Using ACCA Manuals J®, S®, D® & T® Day 2 – Manual S: Residential Equipment Selection
2026-04-29 08:30 - 16:00 | Energy Education Center Tulare, 4175 Laspina St., Tulare, 93274, United States
Course & Workshop Details

Description:
Day 2 will ensure that participants are proficient in selecting and sizing residential HVAC equipment and know how to make decisions based on accurate performance data and home-specific considerations. Some Manual D content may be introduced on day two as well.
Agenda:

Overview of Manual S
Cooling and Heating Equipment Selection
Electric Heating Coils and Furnaces
Boilers and Hydronic Systems
Dehumidification and Humidification Equipment
Performance Data Analysis
Applying Principles to Heat Pumps, Furnaces, and Boilers

Instructor: Russ King – licensed Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience practicing and teaching in the areas of Residential HVAC design, diagnostics, and consulting, as well as energy codes and building science.
Target Audience:
• HVAC Contractors / Technicians
• HVAC Designers / Architects
• HVAC Comfort & Advisors
• Energy Consultants
• HERS Raters
Learning Units: This 3-day course qualifies for 24 NATE and 12 BPI CEUs
Learning Level:
Intermediate Class: Content is appropriate for individuals who possess a fundamental understanding of the topic and have familiarity with basic terminology and methodology of the subject matter. Attendees should have the capacity to participate in instructor-led exercises requiring synthesis and application of concepts.
Special Instructions:
Registration: To register online with ACCA, CLICK HERE
For questions or to register by phone call 703-775-4477
For more information visit: https://www.acca.org/certification/residential-design/rdqi
Training Time: 8:30am – 4:30pm with lunch.

Residential HVAC Design for Quality Installation Using ACCA Manuals J®, S®, D® & T® Day 3 – Manual D and T: Residential Duct System Design
2026-04-30 08:30 - 16:00 | Energy Education Center Tulare, 4175 Laspina St., Tulare, 93274, United States
Description:
Day 3 session ensures participants can design efficient and effective duct systems for residential HVAC applications. By the end of the day, students can apply Manual D principles to real-world scenarios, ensuring they can deliver top-quality ductwork designs. Manual T will cover how to properly select and place supply registers and return grilles to ensure correct air throw, spread, mixing, and comfort, so air reaches the space effectively without drafts or hot/cold spots.
Agenda:

Significance of Duct Design
Duct Materials and Types
Duct Sizing Fundamentals
Duct Layout Considerations
Duct Installation Best Practices
Whole Home Duct Design Walk-Through
Manual T – Air Distribution & Comfort

Instructor: Russ King – licensed Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience practicing and teaching in the areas of Residential HVAC design, diagnostics, and consulting, as well as energy codes and building science.
Target Audience:
• HVAC Contractors / Technicians
• HVAC Designers / Architects
• HVAC Comfort & Advisors
• Energy Consultants
• HERS Raters
Learning Units: This 3-day course qualifies for 24 NATE and 12 BPI CEUs
Learning Level:
Intermediate Class: Content is appropriate for individuals who possess a fundamental understanding of the topic and have familiarity with basic terminology and methodology of the subject matter. Attendees should have the capacity to participate in instructor-led exercises requiring synthesis and application of concepts.
Special Instructions:
Registration: To register online with ACCA, CLICK HERE
For questions or to register by phone call 703-775-4477
For more information visit: https://www.acca.org/certification/residential-design/rdqi

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
