Duct Leakage Test in Middle, NJ

Maintain top HVAC efficiency and stay aligned with local energy codes using trusted duct leakage test in Middle, 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 Middle, 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 bring forward important implications for home builders and HVAC contractors working 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 ductwork is a major cause of air leakage in homes across 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 important for all types of homes, whether new or old. Continue reading to learn why duct leakage test is essential and how you can benefit.

888 213-3975

What Our Clients Say

How a Duct Leakage Test Is Conducted

To begin performing a duct leakage test in Middle, NJ, your technician closes off all supply and return registers except the main return or air handler system. 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 — sometimes called a duct blaster test — reveals where your ducts are losing air so you can determine the most effective sealing solutions.

duct leakage test is easy, clean, and unobtrusive for residents in the home. Most tests in Middle, NJ are wrapped up in 30 to 60 minutes, with improvements that continue to boost comfort and efficiency 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 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 Middle, NJ.

Cost of Excessive Duct Leakage

If your utility bills keep climbing, temperatures vary from room to room, or your HVAC needs constant fixing, duct leakage may be the cause. According to ENERGY STAR, the average home loses 20% to 30% of conditioned air through leaky ducts. When outside hot or cold air seeps into your system, your HVAC must compensate, leading to higher energy costs and diminished comfort.

Overworked equipment also results in more frequent breakdowns and expensive repair bills. Proper duct sealing helps keep your HVAC system healthy over the long run, prolonging its lifespan and lowering continued maintenance needs.

Duct leaks can also allow the entry of dust, mold spores, moisture, and a range of contaminants into the duct system. This can irritate allergies, harm the air quality inside, and cause expensive hidden structural damage as time goes on.

How to Properly Seal Ductwork in an Old Home

The 2015 IRC/IECC instructs that new homes incorporate fully sealed duct systems using high-efficiency materials, including mastic, foil tape, and insulation. But what about leaks that lie far within enclosed wall or ceiling spaces?

Aerosol sealing technology (AeroSeal) helps target hard-to-reach openings deep within ducts. To use this method, technicians seal all vents except one access point. The HVAC system is isolated, and a machine is hooked up to the duct system. It pressurizes the ducts and sends out a fine aerosol mist that seals tiny openings traditional sealing cannot reach.

This method is great for handling small to medium leaks. However, larger holes often require manual sealing with mastic and tape. Technicians conduct duct leakage test before and after aerosol sealing to see how much the leakage dropped and ensure the treatment worked properly.

Common Areas of Duct Leakage

The most typical place where ducts leak air is at their joints. Ductwork is built from multiple metal sections pressed tightly with fittings and metal bands, yet these joints are rarely airtight.

As your HVAC system heats and cools during seasonal changes, the ductwork expands and then contracts. Over time, this movement leads to joint loosening, generating gaps and leaks — a clear reason duct leakage test is recommended for new and older homes in Middle, NJ.

Many energy auditors test for duct leakage by feeling along the ducts and using a small tool to gauge how wide the gaps are at the joints. If your duct system lacks proper sealing with mastic and approved tape, there is a high chance that leakage is taking place.

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

To achieve a passing duct leakage result, your system has to be under 4 CFM per 100 square feet when the air handler is in place, or 3 CFM per 100 square feet without it installed. For new construction, passing the duct leakage test is a necessary step before securing an occupancy certificate.

If your home in Middle, NJ fails duct leakage test, you are probably spending unnecessarily on heating and cooling — and placing ongoing stress on your HVAC equipment. Meeting the 3–4 CFM requirement is vital not only for satisfying code rules but also for preserving your home’s comfort and energy performance.

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 Middle, NJ

Local Energy Audits proudly covers Middle, NJ and all nearby towns. We specialize in identifying duct leakage and energy inefficiencies using blower door tests and duct leakage tests. Whether you’re building a new home or improving an existing one, we’re here to help.
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 duct mask tape being placed on all ducts and registers on both the supply and return sides.

After the registers are sealed, we fasten the duct tester to the unit or to 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 Middle, NJ

Ensure your HVAC system delivers maximum efficiency, full compliance, and top performance through professional duct leakage test in Middle, 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 on-site expertise to help you pass your test, reduce unnecessary energy loss, and protect your HVAC system over the long term.

📞 Call 888-213-3975 ✉️ Request a Quote

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