HERS H2O: Building Smarter, Saving Water

Ryan Meres, Paulette McGhie, and Michael Matthews from RESNET explore the significance of the HERS H2O rating system, which evaluates a home's water efficiency alongside its energy performance. They explain the types of homes eligible for certification and share statistics on adoption in California and other states. The discussion highlights how the HERS H2O rating aligns with the EPA’s WaterSense label, offering builders and homeowners a pathway to formal recognition and incentives. The guests also detail the inspection criteria used in certification and emphasize the value of water-efficient homes—even in regions not currently facing water scarcity. This episode underscores the growing importance of integrating water conservation into residential construction standards. Podcast Recorded on October 30, 2025