Duct Leakage Test in Point Pleasant, PA

Maintain top HVAC efficiency and stay aligned with local energy codes using trusted duct leakage test in Point Pleasant, PA. Our certified technicians detect and measure air leakage in ductwork, supporting homeowners and builders in improving comfort, minimizing wasted energy, and meeting state requirements.

Why Duct Leakage Test is Important In Point Pleasant, PA

In many jurisdictions, the 2015 IECC, International Energy Conservation Code governs single-family buildings, while the 2018 IECC applies to multi-family buildings. The change will create considerable implications for home builders and HVAC contractors carrying out projects in the state. A Duct Leakage Test and a mandatory Blower Door Test are now required for all new construction or remodeled homes under the 2015 regulatory standards. Did you know that ducts often contribute significantly to air leakage problems in homes throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware? Leaked air can push your energy bills higher, pressure your HVAC system, and spread dust and insulation inside your house. This makes duct leakage test beneficial for all homes, new or old. Keep reading to find out why duct leakage test is essential and how it can improve your home.

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How a Duct Leakage Test Is Conducted

To commence a duct leakage test in Point Pleasant, PA, your technician will seal every supply and return register except the primary return or air handler. A calibrated duct blaster fan is then mounted to the opening. This fan creates negative pressure inside the ducts, making air leakage locations easier to find.

The duct blaster works in sync with a precision pressure sensor to assess airflow and find duct leaks without disturbing your living space. A duct leakage test — sometimes called a duct blaster test — detects air loss in the duct system, allowing you to apply the most suitable sealing solutions.

duct leakage test is quick, low-impact, and does not disturb residents. Most tests in Point Pleasant, PA are done in about 30 to 60 minutes, and the resulting enhancements can support your home’s comfort and efficiency for many years.

How to Measure Duct Leakage

Duct leakage is quantified in cubic feet per minute (CFM) for each 100 square feet of conditioned living space. Your technician uses a nanometer to measure tiny pressure changes, revealing how much air is escaping through the ducts. Understanding this number lets you identify inefficiencies, weigh improvement options, and confirm your home’s compliance with local energy code requirements in Point Pleasant, PA.

Cost of Excessive Duct Leakage

If you’re struggling with expensive utility bills, inconsistent indoor temperatures, or continual HVAC problems, duct leakage might be the culprit. According to ENERGY STAR, the majority of homes lose 20% to 30% of conditioned air through duct leaks. Hot or cold air entering from outside increases the workload on your HVAC system, leading to higher energy bills and a drop in comfort.

Overworked equipment also results in more frequent breakdowns and expensive repair bills. 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 let in dust, mold spores, added moisture, and other harmful contaminants. This can increase allergy discomfort, degrade indoor air quality, and eventually cause expensive structural issues behind walls or ceilings.

How to Properly Seal Ductwork in an Old Home

The 2015 IRC/IECC requires new homes to have fully sealed duct systems using modern, energy-efficient materials such as mastic, foil tape, and insulation. But what if the leaks you’re dealing with are deep inside the walls or ceilings?

Aerosol sealing technology (AeroSeal) is one way to reach hidden openings inside ductwork. 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 an ultra-fine aerosol sealant to fill small gaps and holes that manual sealing methods can’t access.

This method is ideal for small to medium leaks. However, any large openings will still need manual sealing with mastic and tape. Technicians administer a duct leakage test prior to and following aerosol sealing to measure leakage changes and ensure the method was successful.

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 transitions between warm and cool air throughout the year, the ducts expand and contract. Over time, this movement gradually loosens the joints, creating leaks and gaps — highlighting the importance of duct leakage test in both new and older homes in Point Pleasant, PA.

Many energy auditors detect duct leakage by physically checking the ducts and using a small tool to assess the width of joint gaps. If your duct system is unsealed with mastic and approved tape, air leakage is almost certainly occurring.

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

To achieve a passing duct leakage result, your system should fall under 4 CFM per 100 square feet with the air handler, or 3 CFM per 100 square feet when the air handler is absent. For new construction, a duct leakage test must be passed before any home is eligible to receive an occupancy certificate.

If your home in Point Pleasant, PA does not meet duct leakage standards, you are likely overpaying for heating and cooling — and adding unnecessary strain to your HVAC equipment. Meeting the 3–4 CFM requirement is important not only for the inspector, but also for maximizing energy efficiency and comfort in your home.

Your technician will also provide expert insights into correcting leakage issues so you can meet passing standards, lower your utility expenses, and improve overall home performance.

Local Energy Audits — affordable duct leakage test in Point Pleasant, PA

Local Energy Audits proudly helps clients across Point Pleasant, PA and surrounding communities. 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 book 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 with all ducts and registers being sealed using duct mask tape on the supply and return sides.

After the registers are sealed, we set up the duct tester by attaching it to the unit or a main return.

The ducts are then depressurized to a Pascal of 25. With the ducts depressurized we can use the nanometer to get a reading of the duct leakage.

Schedule Your Duct Leakage Test in Point Pleasant, PA

Ensure your HVAC system is operating efficiently, compliant with code, and performing optimally with high-quality duct leakage test in Point Pleasant, PA. Whether you’re a homeowner improving comfort or a contractor completing a final inspection, our certified team provides fast, accurate, and affordable testing.

We use industry-standard duct blaster equipment and provide on-site assistance to help you pass your test, cut down on energy waste, and extend the long-term health of your HVAC system.

📞 Call 888-213-3975 ✉️ Request a Quote

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