Duct Leakage Test in Watchung, NJ

Keep your HVAC system energy-efficient and up to code with accurate duct leakage test in Watchung, 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 Watchung, 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 produce important implications for home builders and HVAC contractors functioning within the state. A Duct Leakage Test in addition to a Blower Door Test is now required for new construction and remodeled homes under the 2015 rules. Did you know that leaking ducts are a widespread cause of air loss in homes across 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 key step for new and older homes alike. Read ahead to see why duct leakage test is needed and what advantages it offers.

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How a Duct Leakage Test Is Conducted

To initiate testing, your technician will seal all supply and return registers except for the main return or air handler during a duct leakage test in Watchung, NJ. A duct blaster — a precision-calibrated fan — is then fitted to the duct opening. By depressurizing the system, it makes all air leaks much easier to detect.

The duct blaster operates alongside a precision pressure sensor to track airflow and identify duct leaks without disrupting your home. A duct leakage test — also known as a duct blaster test — pinpoints where air is escaping from your ducts, helping you choose the best sealing methods.

duct leakage test is quick, low-impact, and does not disturb residents. Most tests in Watchung, 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 reported in cubic feet per minute (CFM) per 100 square feet of conditioned home area. Your technician uses a nanometer to capture subtle pressure changes, allowing accurate measurement of duct air leakage. Understanding this number helps you detect issues, explore potential fixes, and determine if your home aligns with local energy code requirements in Watchung, NJ.

Cost of Excessive Duct Leakage

If your home suffers from costly utility bills, uneven comfort levels, or persistent HVAC repairs, duct leakage may be contributing. 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 leads to more breakdowns and costly repairs. Proper duct sealing helps sustain your HVAC system’s long-term condition, increasing its operational lifespan and decreasing maintenance requirements.

Duct leaks can also cause dust, mold spores, and excess moisture — along with other contaminants — to infiltrate the duct system. This can worsen allergy reactions, negatively affect indoor air quality, and contribute to costly hidden structural damage over the years.

How to Properly Seal Ductwork in an Old Home

The 2015 IRC/IECC enforces that new homes incorporate fully sealed ducts made with modern, energy-efficient materials including mastic, foil tape, and insulation. But what do you do about leaks that sit deep within walls or ceilings?

Aerosol sealing technology (AeroSeal) gives technicians a way to reach concealed duct leaks without opening walls or ceilings. 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 a fine aerosolized sealant that seals small openings traditional methods cannot reach.

This method provides strong results for small and medium leaks. However, significant openings may still require mastic and tape by hand. Technicians test the ducts for leakage before and after aerosol sealing to determine the reduction level and verify success.

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 allows the joints to loosen, producing gaps and leaks — which is why a duct leakage test is suggested for homes of all ages in Watchung, NJ.

Many energy auditors identify duct leakage by moving their hands along the ducts and using a small tool to check the width of joint openings. If your duct system isn’t sealed with mastic and approved tape, there’s a good chance that leaks are occurring.

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

To achieve a passing duct leakage result, your system needs to be under 4 CFM per 100 square feet when the air handler is installed, or 3 CFM per 100 square feet when it isn’t. For new construction, an occupancy certificate cannot be issued unless the home passes a duct leakage test.

If your home in Watchung, NJ cannot achieve a passing duct leakage score, you are likely wasting money on heating and cooling — and increasing wear on your HVAC system over time. Meeting the 3–4 CFM requirement is necessary not only for meeting code standards but also for ensuring strong energy efficiency and indoor comfort.

Your technician will also share expert solutions for tackling leakage problems so you can pass the test, cut down utility expenses, and improve overall comfort and efficiency.

Local Energy Audits — affordable duct leakage test in Watchung, NJ

Local Energy Audits proudly delivers services across Watchung, NJ and the surrounding neighborhoods. 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 schedule 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 each duct and register 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 Watchung, NJ

Ensure your HVAC system maximizes efficiency, meets required standards, and performs consistently with thorough duct leakage test in Watchung, NJ. Whether you’re a homeowner addressing comfort issues or a contractor completing the last inspection step, our certified team ensures fast, accurate, and affordable testing.

We use industry-standard duct blaster equipment and give on-site support to help you pass your test, limit wasted energy, and strengthen the long-term health of your HVAC system.

📞 Call 888-213-3975 ✉️ Request a Quote

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