REScheck™ Software FAQs

REScheck 2006 IECC
Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can REScheck be installed on a server or shared network?

Yes, but it is not recommended. REScheck is configured for a local personal computer system and a single user. More specifically, when REScheck is installed, it sets file associations in the local Windows registry so that double-clicking file names will automatically start REScheck. When REScheck shuts down it preserves REScheck session variables and uses these to initialize the next REScheck session. And, if the REScheck preferences options are utilized, these are assumed to be applicable to a specific user.

Installing REScheck to a server will generally compromise all of these features. That is, the Windows registry on a server is typically inaccessible from a user's PC and the saved session variables and preferences will be repeatedly overwritten by multiple user access and possibly create file conflict problems if multiple users are running the application at the same time. Probably the most serious consideration is that servers are often "write protected" such that none of the saved session features will function, nor will it be possible to generate project reports as temporary files are created and deleted during this process.

That said, REScheck can be installed and run on a server so long as the above issues are considered and minimized, and the user has adequate "read/write" privileges on the server. While this FAQ was written specifically for Windows operating systems, MAC systems will have similar issues and considerations albeit for different reasons.

Q: Why use REScheck?

States, counties, or cities may require compliance with the Model Energy Code (MEC) or the International Code Council International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) for new residential construction. Financial guarantees through the Farmers Home Administration, Rural Economic and Community Development (Department of Agriculture) and Veterans Administration also require compliance with the MEC.

The REScheck (formerly MECcheck) product group makes it fast and easy for designers and builders to determine whether new homes and additions meet the requirements of the MEC or the IECC. REScheck also simplifies compliance determinations for building officials, plan checkers, and inspectors. They can use REScheck to quickly determine if a low-rise residence meets the code.

Q: How do I know if I can use REScheck in my state?

States that can use REScheck
for energy code compliance

REScheck can be used in states that require the MEC/IECC as their energy code for residential buildings. See our State Codes Database for information on codes in your state. Always consult your local code office for specific requirements in your area.

Q: How does REScheck work?

At this time the REScheck product group offers two simple ways to demonstrate compliance with the MEC/IECC:

The prescriptive packages approach, the simplest of the approaches, allows builders or designers to select from various combinations of energy conservation measures based on "climate zone" location. Each combination or "package" specifies insulation levels, glazing areas, glazing U-factors (thermal performance), and sometimes heating and cooling equipment efficiency. By locating the correct climate zone and looking up the appropriate table of packages, builders and officials can ensure the project meets one of the packages listed for that zone.

Paper-based versions of the pre-defined packages are available in PDF format. Prescriptive Package Field Guides (one for each climate zone), which provide a single page summary of the envelope requirements, are also available. The REScheck Prescriptive Package Generator is a web-based tool that allows you to generate your own code-compliant insulation and window packages rather than following pre-defined prescriptive packages for energy code compliance.

The trade-off approach enables builders to vary insulation levels in the ceiling, wall, floor, basement wall, slab-edge and crawl space; glazing and door areas; and glazing and door U-factors. Based on the proposed plans and specifications, the builder enters simple information into REScheck. The software compares the project's UA-value to the value required for the climate zone, to determine if the project passes the MEC/IECC requirements. The software allows builders to trade off heating and air-conditioning equipment efficiency, as well as windows and insulation and generates a report that is suitable for plan checking and field inspection.

REScheck software automates calculations needed to determine compliance with the MEC/IECC.

Q: How can I get a copy of REScheck software?

Download REScheck at no cost from this website.

Q: Is technical documentation on REScheck available?

Yes, you may download the Methodology for Developing the REScheck™ Software through Version 3.7 (PDF 472 KB). Download Acrobat Reader

Q: Is there a license agreement for REScheck?

The license agreement for REScheck can be displayed by selecting About REScheck from the Help menu. The license agreement permits you to use, duplicate, and redistribute REScheck in its original form without royalty payment, although unauthorized modifications to the software or supporting files are strictly prohibited.

Q: How do I know whether I am expected to enter an area or a perimeter length?

The column for entering dimensional data on the Envelope screen has the heading Gross Area or Slab Perimeter. All envelope assemblies are entered as areas except for concrete slab-on-grade assemblies, which are entered as the length of exposed perimeter in feet. Instructions for most input fields can be accessed by pressing the <F1> key when that field is current. In addition, when the user is required to input a perimeter length, the unit "ft" is displayed next to the input field.

Q: What is the difference between cavity and continuous insulation?

The terms cavity and continuous insulation are used throughout the REScheck software to distinguish between insulation affected by thermal bridging (cavity) and insulation not affected (continuous). Cavity insulation is insulation installed in the cavities between structural members, such as wood studs, metal framing, and Z-clips, while continuous insulation runs continuously over structural members and is free of significant thermal bridges. Continuous insulation typically is rigid foam board. For additional information on this and other topics, click on the relevant input field in REScheck and press <F1> to view the help messages.