The Ultimate Guide to Getting Your BPI Building Science Principles Certificate

The Building Science Principles (BSP) Certificate is your gateway to understanding energy-efficient home performance. It introduces key industry terminology and demonstrates how a home’s components interact to influence its overall efficiency. 

By exploring the relationships between the building envelope, HVAC systems, insulation, ventilation, lighting, and appliances, you gain insights into enhancing comfort, health, safety, and durability in residential buildings. The BSP certificate also emphasizes the importance of improving energy efficiency as a foundation for integrating renewable energy solutions like solar or geothermal systems. This knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions for your own home or to assist others in optimizing their living spaces.

Let’s dive in!

Who should get their BSP?

This certificate is valuable for anyone seeking to understand or work with residential energy efficiency and home performance concepts. Here are just a few examples:

• Building Trade Professionals
  • Renewable energy and electrification specialists, including sales reps and installers for solar, geothermal, and heat pumps
  • Remodelers and installers (e.g. insulation, HVAC, windows, renewable energy systems)
  • Support staff in home performance companies, such as sales representatives and office administrators
• Students
  • Those interested in careers in green buildings, sustainable design, and energy efficiency
  • Community college and vocational/technical students in building trades
• Real Estate Professionals
  • Home inspectors
  • Realtors
• Policy and Program Managers
  • Government energy office personnel
  • Managers and administrators of energy efficiency incentive programs

How can you qualify to take the exam?

There are no set requirements to take the BSP exam; although, taking a prep course is recommended. HeatSpring offers the BPI Building Science Principles (BSP) Certificate Prep course taught by Brynn Cooksey, who was selected as one the most influential HVACR Instructors of 2024.

What’s covered on the BSP exam?

• Heat and insulation
• Air and air sealing
• Moisture and moisture control
• Mechanical systems
• Conservation strategies
• U.S. Home Energy Score

How much is it to take the exam? 

The exam costs $109. In the event that you need to retake the exam, the retake fee is also $109.

What can I expect with the BSP exam?

The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, with a passing score of 70%. It’s designed to be taken on a computer or tablet and is an open-book test with no time limit. The exam is self-paced and not proctored, allowing you to save your progress if you need to step away. This flexible format accommodates various learning styles and schedules, emphasizing practical application of knowledge. 

What can I do once I get my BSP?

Having your BSP is a prerequisite for the Building Analyst Technician (BA-T) certification. The BA-T is an early-career credential for workers in the home performance industry. This certification gives a great entrance to the industry while providing a clear path for professional growth with the next step in your career being the Building Analyst Professional (BA-P).

Do I need to renew my certificate?

Because this is a certificate and not a certification, you don’t need to renew. Once you earn your BSP, you have it forever. 

Still have questions? We’re happy to help! Send us an email at support@HeatSpring.com.