Continuing Education

The FSEC Energy Research Center at UCF offers a wide range of continuing education courses covering renewable energy and building energy technology topics. Most continuing education courses include both classroom instruction, and hands-on field experience. In many cases, attendees can receive continuing education units (CEUs) and some courses are approved for Florida professional license renewals.

Training Tracks

In-person, online, and hybrid courses arranged in a way for you to achieve a particular end goal. View each to read more about what is offered.


Solar Training | Residential Energy Modeler | Rater TrainingResidential Energy CodeCommercial Energy Code | Building ScienceHVACGreen BuildingWeatherization

Certifications

certification pathways chartLooking for a particular Buildings Training Certification?  View our Certification Pathways chart to see the certifications available and read a description of each.

 


Online Courses

View all of our online courses, ready for you to take at your own pace. Many include CEUs and all provide a certificate of completion. You can ask questions of your instructors and get help when needed.



Live Webinars

woman watching a live webinar

These select courses are being offered as Live Webinars.  You will be able to ask the presenter questions as if you were in the same room as them.  These webinars fill up fast, so reserve your seat today.
Close up White book marked by sticky note

Overview of the 8th Edition (2023) Residential Florida Energy Conservation Code

Gain a working knowledge of the residential provisions of the new 8th Edition (2023) Florida Building Code, Energy Conservation performance, prescriptive, and Energy Rating Index compliance options and changes from the 7th Edition. Also learn about the code’s building air leakage (blower door) and duct leakage testing and mechanical ventilation requirements.

Florida Building CodeFlorida Commercial Energy Code Compliance: Methods, Tools, and Verification (4-Hours)

Obtain a working knowledge of the Florida Commercial Energy Code and introduce yourself to EnergyGauge Summit by running energy use simulations and reviewing code compliance reports.

FGBC logoFlorida Green Home Certification Training

Two-day training offering green building techniques for Florida homes. Individuals who complete this course and exams may become an accredited Certifying Agent of the Florida Green Building Coalition provided they meet the eligibility requirements.

Energy-Efficient Florida Residential HVAC

Discover what’s new with residential HVAC, rebates and have your questions answered, starting with SEER/SEER2 changes.


Solar Training

PV installers continuing education course, photoFSEC is revising its solar training program as a result of the newly established Solar Energy Technician apprenticeship. The Florida Solar Energy Apprenticeship Program was approved by the Florida Department of Education in February 2022. FSEC is working with the Florida solar industry to develop classroom instruction as well as on-the-job training. The program is currently enrolling employers into the program and those employers will have the opportunity to hire apprentices who will have access to the two year apprenticeship. For more information or questions, please visit https://floridasolarapprentice.com/.

Residential Energy Modeler Track (Online)

This educational track involves four courses and a test at the end. All of these courses can be taken online. Becoming a Certified Residential Energy Modeler is a great first step in your Energy Modeling career.

Building Geometry for Energy Modeling (Online)
A free, 1-hour online course. Learn about the building geometry measurements and calculations needed for residential modeling.
Building Science for Energy Modeling and Field InspectionBuilding Science for Energy Modeling and Field Inspection (Online)

This online course provides the basics of building science to better understand how to model residences for their energy use.

Blueprints energy code compliance online splash screenFrom Blueprints to Residential Energy Code Compliance (Online)
This is an interactive course where you will learn to measure blueprints and complete take-off sheets for Residential  Energy Code compliance.
EnergyGauge Pro online course titleEnergyGauge Pro Hands-On (Online)
Learn all about EnergyGauge USA using a sample project house and the latest Energy Conservation Code. Earn 3 CILB CEUs.
Entering Whole House Mechanical Ventilation in EnergyGauge USA

This free course describes how to enter whole house mechanical ventilation systems in EnergyGauge USA. It includes how to calculate the requirements for ASHRAE 62.2 2010, 2013 and 2019.

Residential Energy Modeler ExamResidential Energy Modeler Exam (Online)

After having completed the four courses in this track, take this test to earn your certification.

 

Rater Training Track

Home energy ratings provide a standardized measure of energy costs and efficiency. Ratings in Florida can only be conducted by state-certified Raters. Following the prerequisites, courses should be taken in order, as indicated below.

Step 1

Introduction to the Home Energy Rating System (HERS) course iconBecome a HERS Energy Modeler (Online)

A) First, become an FSEC Residential Energy Modeler by passing the four online courses listed in the Residential Energy Modeler Track (Online) (above) and pass the overall exam.

B) Complete Introduction to the Home Energy Rating System (HERS) (Online). This on-demand, online training course will teach the basics of the RESNET home energy rating system (HERS), which is also used for ERI energy code compliance.

C) Complete EnergyGauge USA Practice Home: Cold Climate

D) Pass the HERS Modeler Exam

E) Complete (2) HERS Probationary Modeler Files
Modeler Files Set 1
Modeler Files Set 2

Step 2

A student installing a blower door fan during an energy rater continuing education training course

Blower Door, Duct Testing and
Whole-House Mechanical Ventilation

Complete the Blower Door, Duct Testing and
Whole-House Mechanical Ventilation courses.

Step 3

A student measuring a model house in an energy rater continuing education training courseResidential Energy Auditor

A Residential Energy Auditor (previously a Class 2 Rater) can evaluate new or existing buildings using site audit data.

Step 4

Researcher measuring outside air flow by holding Flow Blaster over outside vent in soffit overhang.HERS Energy Rater

A HERS Energy Rater (previously a Class 1 rater) can rate new or existing buildings using both site data and actual field performance tests of the building’s energy efficiency.

Exams

Three images from energy rater continuing education courses with the word exams aboveRetake Exams

Need to retake an EnergyGauge, Energy Star or RESNET exam? Register online for the date that is convenient for you.

Electives

Kwik Model 3D screenSpecial Training on EnergyGauge ResSizePro and ResRateSizePro

Special full-day, instructor-led course to learn how to enter a residential project in 3D using Kwik Model, calculate Manual J, Manual S, and Manual D, create a duct layout in 2D or 3D, enter a solar PV system, and more!

 

ENERGY STAR rated Florida home with sign in the front lawnENERGY STAR Ver. 3.2 Training

This training is tailored for the home energy rater to fulfill the training requirement of ENERGYSTAR version 3.2.

ENERGY STAR Multi-Family New Construction Training

This training is mandatory for the HERS Rater and RESNET Rating Field Inspector to fulfill the training requirement set by EPA’s ENERGY STAR Program for Multi-Family New Construction. Any new multi-family residences that seek the ENERGY STAR Label after January 1, 2020, must have someone with this certification to complete the process.

Classroom of adult continuing education students taking a test in school.Re-certification Course

If you’re already a certified rater, enroll in this course to extend your rater status for three years.

Instructor and students gathered around instructional setup using a blower door for continuing education training.Refresher Course

Need a little review? This class is designed to “refresh” the certified rater in proper rating procedure and performance testing.

RESNET HVAC QI Training

Understand and perform the requirements of the HVAC QI Checklist for HERS Ratings and Energy Star and how to complete in the most efficient way, This class explores the methods of ANSI/RESNET/ACCA 310 via a “hands-on” approach. This training is currently targeted for HERS Raters and Rater Field Inspector who want to include the additional testing to enhance the HERS Index for homes to achieve maximum HVAC efficiency.

Entering HVAC grading in EnergyGauge USA

This course describes how to enter HVAC grading in EnergyGauge USA.

Residential Energy Code Track

If you work in the Florida residential construction industry, this series of courses will familiarize you with the energy code, the skills needed to use the energy code, and the tools to ensure compliance.
Close up White book marked by sticky note

Overview of the 8th Edition (2023) Residential Florida Energy Conservation Code

Gain a working knowledge of the latest mandatory provisions and performance, prescriptive and Energy Rating Index compliance options, and learn about building air leakage (blower door) and duct leakage testing and mechanical ventilation requirements.

Researcher measuring outside air flow by holding Flow Blaster over outside vent in soffit overhang.

Measurement and Verification of Continuous Whole-House Mechanical Ventilation Systems

This 4-hour course covers different types of residential mechanical ventilation equipment used in whole-house continuous mechanical ventilation. Course topics include current code, how to determine equipment operational status, as well as how to measure airflow rates of different systems, using different test equipment.

Blueprints energy code compliance online splash screen used in continuing education training course.From Blueprints to Residential Energy Code Compliance (Online Version)

This is an interactive course where you will learn to measure blueprints and complete take-off sheets for Residential Florida Energy Code compliance.

EnergyGauge Pro online course titleEnergyGauge Pro Hands-On (Online Version)

Learn all about EnergyGauge USA using a sample project house and the latest Florida Energy Conservation Code. Earn 3 CILB CEUs.

A student installing a blower door fan during an energy rater training courseResidential Building Air Leakage (Blower Door) Testing

Learn how to perform residential building air leakage tests using a blower door in compliance with 2017 Florida Residential Energy Code.

Assessments

Combustion Performance Exam

FSEC requires a combustion performance exam in addition to the RESNET combustion safety requirements. The test will be performed at a real home which utilizes combustion appliances.  You will have 2 hours to complete the exam. See full description to schedule exam date and time.

Provisional Rating

As part of the FSEC Rater Agreement and the RESNET Standard, a “probationary rater” must have at least two probationary ratings performed in the presence of a Quality Assurance Designee or Delegate. This includes the QA Designee (or Delegate) to supervise, on site, the probationary rating and to check the rater file input for errors.

Commercial Energy Code Track

Florida Building CodeFlorida Commercial Energy Code Compliance: Methods, Tools, and Verification 4-Hour

Obtain a working knowledge of the Florida Commercial Energy Code and introduce yourself to EnergyGauge Summit by running energy use simulations and reviewing code compliance reports.

EnergyGauge Summit logoCommercial Energy Code and Green Building Modeling Using EnergyGauge Summit

This course provides a more in-depth review of EnergyGauge Summit focusing on more detailed input of building information and analysis of the various reports.

Student being instructed during a commercial rater continuing education training classEnergyGauge Commercial Rater Training

Explore the methods required to accurately assess commercial buildings and obtain your commercial energy rater certification.

COURSES BY REQUEST ONLY

The following training courses are available at FSEC in Cocoa, Fla. or off-site on an as-requested basis. If you or your company are interested in attending a particular course, please email info@fsec.ucf.edu.
Infrared thermovision image showing lack of thermal insulation on house, used in continuing education training course.Introduction to the Infrared Camera

An infrared camera can be a helpful tool in diagnosing a variety of problems. This course will introduce students to the basics of thermography as it applies to diagnosing building conditions.

Student using a device to test for a gas leak near a gas powered water heater before a blower door test, weatherizationCombustion Safety

This course will familiarize HERS Raters with the new RESNET Combustion Appliance Safety Testing protocols outlined in Chapter 8 of RESNET Standards.

Worker adding reflective aluminum tape to a duct joint to make it air tight weatherization, continuing education training course.Air Sealing Tech

Learn the basics of air leakage, tools, and materials used in attic preparation, as well as the trouble spots found repeatedly on a job site. There will be demos and hands-on experiences of proper attic preparation.

Dense packed insulation in unfinished construction framed wallDense-Pack Sidewall Insulation

Students will practice installing dense-pack insulation and explore the various inspection techniques available. Common pitfalls and installation techniques will be covered.

Test modules used for weatherization and blower door continuing education courses.Advanced Pressure Diagnostics

This course covers methods to reduce air leakage in floors, walls and ceilings adjacent to buffer zones, including attic, crawlspace, attached garage. and also determine if air-sealing is needed.

Mold beside and under new window, in the corner of the beige wall and along it.Diagnosing Moisture Problems

Learn how to avoid elevated indoor humidity and building moisture problems in hot and humid climates, including uncontrolled airflow, building pressures, ventilation, mold and mildew problems.

Rob Vieira teaching two students in a classroom

EnergyGauge Pro Hand-On

Learn how to use EnergyGauge USA software to calculate 6th Edition (2017) Florida Energy Code compliance.

 

Residential Florida building code Energy ConservationFlorida Residential Energy Code Compliance: Methods, Tools, and Verification

Whether you’re building or renovating residences, you should be familiar with the Florida Residential Energy Code. This course will introduce the code and help you and become skilled with the tools for compliance.

 

Pointing at BlueprintsFrom Blueprints to Residential Energy Code Compliance

Examining the blueprints is one of the first steps to determine energy code compliance. This course will guide you through performing take-offs to perform compliance calculations.

Cover of IECC publicationThe 2015 IECC and the Energy Rating Index (ERI) Compliance Option 

Obtain a working knowledge of 2015 International Energy Conservation Code residential compliance methods and reporting and the RESNET Quality Assurance process.

 

 

 

Weatherization Training

Neil Moyer teaching a continuing education training course on weatherization, photoWeatherization Energy Auditor Single Family

This two-week lecture-lab continuing education course provides the student with an in-depth understanding of the auditing process, and also treating the house as a system. Instruction is from the WAPTAC Standardized curricula and based on the NREL / U.S. DOE Job Task Analysis.

Tei Kucharski teaching a continuing education training class on weatherization, photoWeatherization Quality Control Inspector

Students will practice the skills needed to become an effective QCI during this 5-day lecture-lab course. Instruction is from the WAPTAC Standardized curricula and based on the NREL / U.S. DOE Job Task Analysis.

Blower door controls, photo, used in continuing education training course.Florida Weatherization Instructional Videos

The videos demonstrate testing methods that weatherization inspectors need to perform when determining weatherization measures needed, while also ensuring the safe operation of the house.