Air Duct Leakage Testing

Excessive air duct leakage can significantly increase operational expenses and degrade the performance of your HVAC system. Duct leakage testing compares the air leakage from installed ductwork to the performance criteria of the Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA).

WHAT IS THE PROCESS?

Each intended opening in the duct system is sealed air tight using plastic and tape during the construction process, while the duct is accessible before the grilles and equipment are placed. After that, the duct system is subjected to high pressure, and the airflow through the fan is monitored. The airflow from the fan is perceived as duct leakage. If the level of leakage exceeds the specification, the leaking duct is fixed and the test is repeated. The method is repeated until satisfactory results are obtained.

WHY GET A AIR DUCT LEAK TEST?

Negative results of an air duct leak can result in:

1. Higher utility bills – gas and electric bills can be up to 30% higher!
2. Indoor air is more humid in the summer and drier in the winter.
3. Uneven heating and cooling resulting in hot or cold rooms, as the proper quality of air does not reach the appropriate rooms.
4. Contaminants can enter the home through leaky ducts, lowering indoor air quality.
5. Premature equipment failure resulting in higher repair costs in the long run.