Duct Leakage Test in North Haledon, NJ

Ensure long-term HVAC performance and code compliance with expert duct leakage test in North Haledon, 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 North Haledon, NJ

Across many states and municipalities, the 2015 IECC, International Energy Conservation Code applies to single-family homes, while the 2018 International Energy Conservation Code governs multi-family buildings. The change will have some significant implications for home builders and HVAC contractors operating in the state. A Duct Leakage Test and a Blower Door Test are now mandatory for newly built or renovated homes under the 2015 regulations. Did you know that duct leakage is one of the top reasons for air loss in homes in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware? Leaked air can cause higher energy expenses, burden your HVAC system, and push dust and insulation into different areas of your home. This makes duct leakage test a crucial step for maintaining comfort in new and old homes alike. Continue reading to learn why duct leakage test is valuable and how it benefits you.

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How a Duct Leakage Test Is Conducted

To prepare for a duct leakage test in North Haledon, NJ, the technician seals every supply and return register, leaving only the main return or air handler unsealed. 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 and its precision pressure sensor work together to measure airflow and detect duct leaks without causing any disruption in your home. A duct leakage test — commonly called a duct blaster test — detects areas where your ducts lose air, helping you select the most efficient sealing solutions.

duct leakage test is fast, tidy, and causes no disruption for residents. Most tests in North Haledon, 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 reported in cubic feet per minute (CFM) per 100 square feet of conditioned home area. Your technician uses a nanometer to sense slight pressure changes, showing precisely how much air is escaping through the ductwork. Understanding this number helps you detect issues, explore potential fixes, and determine if your home aligns with local energy code requirements in North Haledon, 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, the average home loses 20% to 30% of conditioned air through leaky ducts. Hot or cold outside air creeping into your system forces the HVAC to work inefficiently, increasing energy spending and reducing comfort.

Overworked equipment also leads to 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 allow dust, mold spores, excess moisture, 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 mandates that new homes include fully sealed duct systems built with energy-efficient materials like mastic, foil tape, and proper insulation. But what if the problem areas are buried deep within the walls or ceilings?

Aerosol sealing technology (AeroSeal) is an effective solution for reaching hidden ductwork leaks. To set up this method, all vents are sealed off except for a single access point. The HVAC system is isolated, and a machine is fitted to the duct system. It pressurizes the ducts and releases a fine sealant mist that finds and fills small holes that traditional sealing methods cannot access.

This method is very effective for minor to moderate leaks. However, substantial openings may still need traditional sealing with mastic and tape. Technicians perform pre- and post-aerosol sealing duct leakage tests to measure the improvement and confirm treatment effectiveness.

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 shifts between hot and cold cycles all year long, the ductwork expands and contracts. Over time, this movement causes the joints to loosen, creating gaps and leaks — which is why a duct leakage test is recommended for both new and older homes in North Haledon, NJ.

Many energy auditors locate duct leakage by touching the ductwork and using a small tool to measure the width of separation between joints. If your duct system hasn’t been sealed with mastic and approved tape, there is a strong likelihood that leakage is happening.

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

To achieve a passing duct leakage result, your system must remain below 4 CFM per 100 square feet with the air handler installed, or 3 CFM per 100 square feet if the air handler is missing. For new construction, obtaining an occupancy certificate requires passing a duct leakage test first.

If your home in North Haledon, NJ falls short in a duct leakage test, you are probably paying extra for heating and cooling — and placing lasting pressure on your HVAC equipment. 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 professional insights on resolving leakage issues so you can achieve a passing score, lower your utility costs, and optimize home performance.

Local Energy Audits — affordable duct leakage test in North Haledon, NJ

Local Energy Audits proudly provides service to homeowners and builders throughout North Haledon, NJ and the surrounding region. 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 all the ducts and registers sealed tightly using duct mask tape on both sides—supply and return.

After the registers are sealed, we hook the duct tester to the HVAC unit or a main 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 North Haledon, NJ

Ensure your HVAC system stays efficient, compliant, and operating at peak performance with expert duct leakage test in North Haledon, NJ. Whether you’re a homeowner increasing comfort or a contractor completing a necessary inspection, our certified team offers fast, accurate, and affordable testing.

We use industry-standard duct blaster equipment and supply on-site guidance to help you pass your test, reduce energy loss, and maintain the long-term health of your HVAC system.

📞 Call 888-213-3975 ✉️ Request a Quote

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