Free Florida Energy Form

The Florida Energy Form is designed to ensure that residential buildings comply with the energy efficiency requirements outlined in Section 402 of the Florida Building Code. This includes new constructions, additions, and renovations to existing buildings. The form helps demonstrate that a building meets or exceeds the necessary energy conservation standards.

The form must be completed by the owner or the owner's agent when applying for building permits for single-family detached homes, multiple-family attached homes, or any residential building that is three stories or less. It is essential for any construction or renovation that affects energy efficiency.

The Florida Energy Form applies to single-family and multiple-family residences that are three stories or less in height. It also covers additions and renovations to existing residential buildings, as well as new heating, cooling, and water heating systems in existing structures.

The form requires information about various building components, including:

• Conditioned floor area
• Glass type and area
• Wall and ceiling types and insulation values
• Heating and cooling system types and efficiencies
• Air distribution systems and duct insulation

All components must meet or exceed the performance criteria specified in the form.

If a building does not comply with the requirements outlined in the Florida Energy Form or Alternate Form 402, it may still achieve compliance under Section 405 of the Florida Building Code. This alternative method may have different standards and requirements.

Yes, there are exceptions. For example, if a building has glass areas exceeding 20% of the conditioned floor area, it cannot use this method for compliance. However, additions of 600 square feet or less may have a maximum glass to floor area ratio of 50%.

The "Prepared By" certification at the bottom of the form indicates that the information provided is accurate and complete. It must be signed and dated by the owner or the owner's agent, ensuring accountability for the data submitted.

The form includes tables that list performance criteria for various building components, such as windows, walls, and HVAC systems. By requiring that all installed values meet or exceed these criteria, the form helps ensure that the building is energy efficient.

If additional information is needed, such as test reports or HVAC sizing calculations, these documents should be attached to the form. This helps verify compliance with the Florida Energy Code and provides necessary details for the review process.

Before construction is completed, the building will be inspected to ensure it complies with the Florida Energy Code. This inspection is conducted in accordance with Section 553.908 of the Florida Statutes, ensuring that all energy efficiency standards have been met.

Incomplete Information: One of the most common mistakes is failing to provide all required details in the "To Be Installed" column. Each value must be filled out accurately to ensure compliance with energy efficiency standards.

Ignoring Performance Criteria: Many people overlook the performance criteria outlined in Table 402A. Each component must meet or exceed these criteria, or the project may not comply with the Florida Energy Code.

Incorrect Signatures: The "Prepared By" certification statement must be signed and dated by the owner or the owner's agent. Omitting this step can lead to significant delays or rejections of the form.

Misunderstanding Glass Area Requirements: Submitting a form with glass areas exceeding the allowed percentage of conditioned floor area is a frequent error. This can disqualify the building from using the compliance method outlined in the form.

Neglecting Mandatory Requirements: Failing to check off all applicable mandatory requirements in Table 402B can result in non-compliance. Each box must be marked to indicate intent to comply with these essential items.