Duct Leakage Test in Lopatcong, NJ

Ensure proper HVAC performance and code compliance by scheduling professional duct leakage test in Lopatcong, NJ. Our certified technicians measure and identify ductwork air leaks, assisting homeowners and builders in boosting comfort, limiting energy waste, and maintaining state compliance.

Why Duct Leakage Test is Important In Lopatcong, NJ

Across different states and municipalities, the 2015 IECC, International Energy Conservation Code regulates single-family structures, and the 2018 International Energy Conservation Code is used for multi-family structures. 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 leading factor in home air leakage across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware? Leaked air can raise your energy bills, strain your HVAC system, and spread insulation 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 begin performing a duct leakage test in Lopatcong, NJ, your technician closes off all supply and return registers except the main return or air handler system. A duct blaster, designed as a calibrated testing fan, is then attached to the duct system. Its purpose is to depressurize the ducts and uncover leak points.

The duct blaster uses a precision pressure sensor to monitor airflow and pinpoint leaks throughout the ductwork without interrupting your home environment. A duct leakage test — sometimes labeled as a duct blaster test — finds where your ducts are leaking air so you can decide on the best sealing strategy.

duct leakage test is hassle-free, clean, and won’t interfere with residents’ daily routines. Most tests in Lopatcong, NJ require only 30 to 60 minutes, yet the upgrades can improve your home’s comfort and efficiency well into the future.

How to Measure Duct Leakage

Duct leakage is monitored in cubic feet per minute (CFM) per 100 square feet of the conditioned sections of 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 helps you identify problem areas, evaluate potential improvements, and determine whether your home meets local energy code requirements in Lopatcong, NJ.

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, an average home’s ductwork loses 20% to 30% of conditioned air through leaks. Hot or cold outside air creeping into your system forces the HVAC to work inefficiently, increasing energy spending and reducing comfort.

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

Duct leaks can also create openings for dust, mold spores, moisture, and various contaminants to enter the duct system. This can negatively influence allergies, weaken indoor air quality, and lead to expensive long-term damage behind walls or ceilings.

How to Properly Seal Ductwork in an Old Home

The 2015 IRC/IECC mandates fully sealed duct systems in new homes, made from energy-efficient materials like mastic, foil tape, and proper insulation. But what happens when air leaks are concealed deep in the walls or ceilings?

Aerosol sealing technology (AeroSeal) offers a method to access hidden leaks deep within ductwork. 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 highly effective for small to medium leaks. However, large openings may still require manual sealing with mastic and tape. Technicians perform a duct leakage test both before and after aerosol sealing to determine how much leakage has decreased and confirm the treatment worked.

Common Areas of Duct Leakage

The most common leakage area in duct systems is the joints. Ductwork involves numerous metal parts pressed together with tight fittings and metal bands, but these connections are almost never fully airtight.

As your HVAC system heats and cools during seasonal changes, the ductwork expands and then contracts. Over time, this movement loosens the joints, causing gaps and leaks — which is why both new and older homes in Lopatcong, NJ should consider a duct leakage test.

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 has not received sealing with mastic and approved tape, leakage is very probable.

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

To achieve a passing duct leakage result, your system must measure under 4 CFM per 100 square feet with the air handler in place, or 3 CFM per 100 square feet if the air handler is not installed. For new construction, passing a duct leakage test is required before a home can receive an occupancy certificate.

If your home in Lopatcong, NJ fails its duct leakage test, you are likely facing inflated heating and cooling costs — along with increased strain on your HVAC system. Meeting the 3–4 CFM requirement is fundamental not only for code adherence but for boosting your home’s long-term efficiency and comfort.

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 Lopatcong, NJ

Local Energy Audits proudly offers services throughout Lopatcong, NJ and neighboring areas. We specialize in assessing duct leakage and energy inefficiencies with blower door tests and duct leakage tests. Whether it’s a new build or a current home, we’re here to support 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 sealing all ducts and registers using duct mask tape on both the supply and return sides.

After the registers are sealed, we attach the duct tester to either the unit itself or a main return.

The ducts are then pulled down to 25 Pascals of depressurization. With the ducts in this state, we take a leakage reading using the nanometer.

Schedule Your Duct Leakage Test in Lopatcong, NJ

Ensure your HVAC system maximizes efficiency, meets required standards, and performs consistently with thorough duct leakage test in Lopatcong, NJ. 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 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 Lopatcong, NJ with dependable and energy-efficient testing solutions.