NCI-certified technicians. Audit-ready reports. 90+ projects completed. Founded 2009.
NCI Certified Since 2024
Founded 2009
90+ Projects
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ASHRAE 111
IBHS FORTIFIED
Smart-home technology is no longer a luxury — it is becoming the baseline for energy code compliance, insurance discounts, and program certifications. HECS regularly integrates smart-home verification into ENERGY STAR, NGBS Green, and FORTIFIED Home projects. Here is the HECS perspective on what residential developers should prioritize in 2026 and beyond.
ENERGY STAR v3.1 (effective 2024) and the 2024 IECC both require more sophisticated HVAC controls, lighting controls, and demand-response capability than previous versions. Smart thermostats, smart ventilation controls, and Home Energy Management Systems (HEMS) are now expected for compliance. NGBS Green and EarthCraft also award points for smart-home features. FORTIFIED Home is starting to require smart sensors for storm detection. The smart-home tech stack is no longer optional for code compliance.
HECS recommends that residential developers specify smart thermostats with ENERGY STAR Most Efficient certification, smart ventilation controls with automated fresh-air management, smart water heaters with leak detection, and a Home Energy Management System that integrates HVAC, water heating, lighting, and PV (if applicable). The total cost premium for the smart-home tech stack is typically $1,500-$3,000 per unit, but the energy savings, insurance discounts, and code compliance make it a strong ROI investment.
HECS verifies the smart-home tech stack as part of our energy certification process. We confirm the equipment is installed per the manufacturer's specs, that the controls are properly configured, and that the system is integrated with the building's energy management plan. We document the verification in the program submittal package, which passes first submission with code officials and program administrators.
For a smart-home tech assessment on your next residential or multifamily project, call (859) 983-7382 or email hecs@hecsusa.com. HECS delivers ENERGY STAR v3.0/v3.1, NGBS Green, EarthCraft, 45L tax credit, and FORTIFIED Home certification across Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Tennessee, Illinois, and Missouri.
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