DuctBlaster

Duct Blaster Test:

The air distribution system is an extremely important and often overlooked part of the pressure
envelope. Leaky duct systems compromise indoor air quality, create health and safety
concerns, and significantly increase energy consumption. We pressure test duct systems with
a duct blaster to ensure they meet nationally recognized airtightness standards.

We know that it is imperative to have sealed
ductwork in order to achieve the goal of a home
that is healthy, comfortable and energy
efficient. Although sealing up ductwork sounds
simple, our experience out in the field has shown
that too many HVAC contractors have never been
educated or asked to install airtight ductwork.
Presently we are only passing about half the
systems we test.

The upgrade to sealed and tested air distribution
systems is a much better value than the upgrade
from an R-30 attic insulation to an R-38. Duct
leakage concerns us because the energy loss from
duct leaks can be so significant that it quickly
undermines the benefit of a quality insulation job.

The ideal time to test ductwork is before the sheet
rock is hung. We measure the leakiness of the
system and if necessary, we introduce theatrica
fog to make the duct leaks visible. The theatrica
fog is an especially important diagnostic tool if a
system fails and we need to pinpoint the location
of the leaks. No one can argue with the fog rolling
out of leaky ductwork.

To view at a glance how the HERS Index and all the various tests play a role in
the FGBC, NAHB and ENERGY STAR certification programs Click Here