Duct Leakage Test in Hamilton township, NJ

Improve HVAC performance and ensure energy code compliance with dependable duct leakage test in Hamilton township, NJ. Our certified technicians find and measure ductwork air leaks, allowing homeowners and builders to improve indoor comfort, reduce energy waste, and satisfy state standards.

Why Duct Leakage Test is Important In Hamilton township, NJ

In most states and municipalities, the 2015 IECC, International Energy Conservation Code is required for single-family homes, while the 2018 International Energy Conservation Code is required for multi-family homes. The change will create several important implications for home builders and HVAC contractors operating within the state. A Duct Leakage Test paired with a Blower Door Test is now expected for newly constructed and remodeled homes in accordance with the 2015 code requirements. Did you know that leaking ducts are a widespread cause of air loss in homes 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 highly important for homes of any age. Read on to learn why duct leakage test matters and the benefits you can gain.

888 213-3975

What Our Clients Say

How a Duct Leakage Test Is Conducted

To set up a duct leakage test in Hamilton township, NJ, the technician begins by sealing all supply and return registers, leaving only the air handler or main return open. A specially calibrated duct blaster fan is then connected to the opening. This fan depressurizes the ducts to help locate where air is escaping.

The duct blaster collaborates with a precision pressure sensor to evaluate airflow and locate leaks throughout the ductwork without disturbing your household. A duct leakage test — often known as a duct blaster test — exposes duct air loss, allowing you to apply the most effective sealing techniques.

duct leakage test is quick, neat, and intentionally non-intrusive for anyone living in the home. Most tests in Hamilton township, NJ finish within 30 to 60 minutes, and the benefits to your home’s comfort and efficiency can last for years.

How to Measure Duct Leakage

Duct leakage is evaluated in cubic feet per minute (CFM) per 100 square feet of conditioned space inside the home. Your technician uses a nanometer to identify subtle pressure differences, helping determine how much air is leaking from the ducts. Understanding this number enables you to recognize problem areas, consider efficiency improvements, and verify that your home meets local energy code requirements in Hamilton township, NJ.

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, many homes lose as much as 20% to 30% of conditioned air through duct leaks. 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 causes additional breakdowns and increases repair costs. Proper duct sealing helps ensure the long-term stability of your HVAC system, extending its lifespan and reducing future maintenance work.

Duct leaks can also introduce dust, mold spores, excess humidity, and other contaminants into the duct system. This can worsen allergy conditions, affect indoor air quality, and result in costly damage forming behind walls or ceilings over time.

How to Properly Seal Ductwork in an Old Home

The 2015 IRC/IECC sets a requirement that all new homes feature ducts sealed completely with modern materials like mastic, foil tape, and insulation. But what if the leaks are buried far inside your walls or ceilings?

Aerosol sealing technology (AeroSeal) helps target hard-to-reach openings deep within ducts. To conduct this method, all vents are blocked except for one access point. The HVAC system is isolated, and a machine is connected to the duct system. It pressurizes the ducts and releases a fine aerosolized sealant that fills small gaps and holes that traditional sealing 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 use before-and-after duct leakage tests to measure improvement and make sure the aerosol sealing process was successful.

Common Areas of Duct Leakage

The most common spot where air escapes in duct systems is the joints. Ductwork features several metal pieces pressed together using tight fittings and metal bands, though these areas are seldom airtight.

As your HVAC system transitions between warm and cool air throughout the year, the ducts expand and contract. 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 Hamilton township, NJ.

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 lacks sealing with mastic and approved tape, there is a strong chance that leakage is present.

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

To achieve a passing duct leakage result, your system must show under 4 CFM per 100 square feet if the air handler is installed, or 3 CFM per 100 square feet if it is not. For new construction, an occupancy certificate cannot be issued unless the home passes a duct leakage test.

If your home in Hamilton township, NJ 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 give informed guidance on addressing leakage problems, enabling you to pass the test, reduce energy bills, and enhance your home’s performance.

Local Energy Audits — affordable duct leakage test in Hamilton township, NJ

Local Energy Audits proudly works with clients throughout Hamilton township, NJ and nearby locations. We specialize in testing for duct leakage and energy inefficiencies using blower door and duct leakage methods. Whether you’re building from scratch or upgrading your home, we’re here to assist.
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 by covering all ducts and registers with duct mask tape on both 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 exactly 25 Pascals. Once this is achieved, the nanometer is used to read the duct leakage.

Schedule Your Duct Leakage Test in Hamilton township, NJ

Ensure your HVAC system maximizes efficiency, meets required standards, and performs consistently with thorough duct leakage test in Hamilton township, NJ. Whether you’re a homeowner aiming for better comfort or a contractor completing final approval, our certified team ensures fast, accurate, and affordable testing.

We use industry-standard duct blaster equipment and offer expert on-site guidance to help you pass your test, improve energy efficiency, and protect the long-term health of your HVAC system.

📞 Call 888-213-3975 ✉️ Request a Quote

Serving homeowners, builders, and contractors across Hamilton township, NJ with dependable and energy-efficient testing solutions.