Duct Leakage Test in Swarthmore, PA

Protect system efficiency and meet local building codes by choosing certified duct leakage test in Swarthmore, PA. Our certified technicians pinpoint and measure ductwork air leaks, helping homeowners and builders boost comfort, cut energy waste, and meet state compliance standards.

Why Duct Leakage Test is Important In Swarthmore, PA

States and municipalities commonly implement the 2015 IECC, International Energy Conservation Code for single-family dwellings and the 2018 International Energy Conservation Code for multi-family residences. The change will introduce meaningful implications for home builders and HVAC contractors active in the state. A Duct Leakage Test plus a Blower Door Test are now compulsory in newly constructed or renovated homes according to the 2015 regulations. Did you know that ducts are a significant source of air leakage in residential properties across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware? Leaked air can drive up your utility costs, tax your HVAC equipment, and circulate insulation debris and dust throughout your home. This makes duct leakage test vital for homes both old and newly built. Keep reading to find out why duct leakage test matters and what benefits it provides.

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How a Duct Leakage Test Is Conducted

To start a duct leakage test in Swarthmore, PA, the technician will close and seal every supply and return register except the main return or air handler. A specially calibrated fan called a duct blaster is then connected to the opening. This fan depressurizes the duct system, making it easier to pinpoint exactly where air is leaking.

The duct blaster works together with a precision pressure sensor to measure airflow and pinpoint leaks in the ductwork without disturbing your home. A duct leakage test — often described as a duct blaster test — identifies leaking areas in your ducts so you can determine the most efficient sealing fix.

duct leakage test is swift, clean, and carried out with no disturbance to residents. Most tests in Swarthmore, PA take 30 to 60 minutes to complete, and the benefits to comfort and efficiency can endure for years.

How to Measure Duct Leakage

Duct leakage is rated in cubic feet per minute (CFM) per 100 square feet of the home’s conditioned zone. Your technician uses a nanometer to measure tiny pressure differences, making it possible to determine how much air the ducts are losing. Understanding this number helps you detect issues, explore potential fixes, and determine if your home aligns with local energy code requirements in Swarthmore, PA.

Cost of Excessive Duct Leakage

If you notice high energy costs, hot and cold spots, or ongoing HVAC repairs, duct leakage might be the underlying problem. According to ENERGY STAR, the average household loses 20%–30% of conditioned air because of leaking ducts. Outside hot or cold air leaking into your system puts extra strain on your HVAC unit, raising energy bills and decreasing comfort.

Overworked equipment also accelerates wear and tear, resulting in more breakdowns and costly repairs. Proper duct sealing helps maintain the long-term health of your HVAC system, extending its lifespan and reducing ongoing maintenance needs.

Duct leaks can also enable dust, mold spores, elevated moisture, and unwanted contaminants to infiltrate the duct system. This can escalate allergies, lower the overall air quality indoors, and lead to costly damage behind walls or ceilings over time.

How to Properly Seal Ductwork in an Old Home

The 2015 IRC/IECC requires all newly constructed homes to have fully sealed ductwork with modern, energy-saving materials such as mastic, foil tape, and insulation. But what if some leaks are hidden within the depths of your walls or ceilings?

Aerosol sealing technology (AeroSeal) is designed to reach and seal hidden gaps throughout the duct system. To implement this method, every vent is covered except one access point. The HVAC system is isolated, and a machine is connected to the duct system. It pressurizes the ducts and distributes a fine aerosolized sealant that seals small openings traditional methods cannot reach.

This method is effective for addressing small to medium leaks. However, larger holes still need manual sealing with mastic and tape. Technicians complete before-and-after duct leakage tests to measure leakage reduction and ensure the aerosol sealing was effective.

Common Areas of Duct Leakage

The most common point where ducts leak air is along the joints. Ductwork is made from multiple metal pieces pressed together with tight fittings and metal bands, but these connections are rarely completely airtight.

As your HVAC system runs through seasonal heating and cooling, the ducts experience ongoing expansion and contraction. Over time, this movement makes the joints loosen, forming gaps and leaks — meaning a duct leakage test is advised for both new and older homes in Swarthmore, PA.

Many energy auditors verify duct leakage by feeling around the ducts and using a small tool to assess the opening size at the joints. If your duct system hasn’t been finished with mastic and approved tape, leaks are highly likely.

What Is an Acceptable Amount of Duct Leakage per Energy Code?

To achieve a passing duct leakage result, your system should measure under 4 CFM per 100 square feet with the air handler installed, or 3 CFM per 100 square feet without the air handler installed. For new construction, the home must pass a duct leakage test before qualifying for an occupancy certificate.

If your home in Swarthmore, PA cannot pass a duct leakage test, you are likely wasting money on heating and cooling — and causing long-term wear on your HVAC system. Meeting the 3–4 CFM requirement is needed not only for passing inspections, but also for improving home comfort and energy efficiency.

Your technician will also offer expert guidance on fixing leakage problems so you can earn a passing score, reduce utility costs, and enhance your home’s overall performance.

Local Energy Audits — affordable duct leakage test in Swarthmore, PA

Local Energy Audits proudly supports customers throughout Swarthmore, PA and the areas nearby. We specialize in pinpointing duct leakage and energy inefficiencies using blower door tests and duct leakage tests. Whether you’re constructing a new house or upgrading your current one, we’re here for you.
If you’d like to schedule a test, call us during business hours or contact us online to request an appointment.

The Duct Leakage Test Steps Explained

A duct leakage test begins by securing duct mask tape over every duct and register on the supply and return sides.

After the registers are sealed, we position the duct tester on the HVAC unit or on a primary return.

The ducts are then depressurized until they reach 25 Pascals. With them depressurized, the nanometer measures the amount of leakage.

Schedule Your Duct Leakage Test in Swarthmore, PA

Ensure your HVAC system functions efficiently, adheres to codes, and stays in top condition through reliable duct leakage test in Swarthmore, PA. Whether you’re a homeowner focused on comfort or a contractor closing out an inspection, our certified team provides fast, accurate, and affordable testing.

We use industry-standard duct blaster equipment and offer direct on-site guidance to help you pass your test, lower energy waste, and protect your HVAC system’s long-term health.

📞 Call 888-213-3975 ✉️ Request a Quote

Serving homeowners, builders, and contractors across Swarthmore, PA with dependable and energy-efficient testing solutions.