Duct Testing

What is a Duct Leakage Test and Why Does Your Sacramento Home Need One?

Duct testing in Sacramento measures leakage from a residential HVAC duct system for permit compliance, quality control, or troubleshooting. When a project's approved energy documents require duct verification, our ECC/HERS rater seals the registers, measures airflow at a standard test pressure, and documents the result. For projects with multiple required measures, see our full-service ECC/HERS testing.

Some HVAC replacements and duct alterations require duct leakage verification under the approved California compliance documents. The permit scope and project forms determine whether testing applies.

New construction may also list duct leakage verification. Confirm the requirement and target before the duct system is concealed or the project reaches closeout.

What Happens During a Duct Leakage Test?

There are three main components to a duct leakage test: a calibrated fan, a register sealing system and a device that measures the building pressure and fan air flow. Using adhesive tape, cardboard or other reusable seals, all supply registers and air returns are sealed off except one. The calibrated fan is then attached to it and then pressure is monitored in a branch of the ductwork as air is pushed into the system. 

As this happens, pressure will build and air will be forced out of the natural openings where ductwork connects, such as at seams and joints. By pressurizing or depressurizing the ductwork, we can check for leakage. In cases where dust or other contaminants can be a problem, like in a crawlspace or attic, the air should be pressurized so that it doesn't inadvertently draw in all of that dust and debris.

Why Should You Have Duct Work Done?

When ductwork is installed in your home, all the seals are tight which ensures that the right amount of air at the right temperature goes to the right place. This, in turn, is what ensures that you feel comfortable in any season. However, leaky ductwork can happen at any time and causes a wide range of headaches, hassles and even potential health problems for homeowners. These include:

Higher Utility Bills - Leaky ductwork can cause you to spend up to 30% more on heating or cooling your home!

Issues with Temperature - Have you noticed that in the summer, rooms feel sticky and humid, while in the winter they feel drier? This could be an issue with leaky ductwork that would necessitate a duct leakage test.

Uneven Heating or Cooling - Does it feel warm in one part of the room but chilly in another? Uneven heating could be caused by poor ductwork. 

Poor Air Quality - Poor air quality can cause contaminants like dust, mold and more to be released into the air, causing all kinds of health problems. 

What Happens After the Duct Leakage Test?

The test itself only takes around 30 minutes to set up in terms of sealing up the ducts and setting up the relevant equipment. Around five minutes are needed to run the test and determine whether or not your duct work passes or fails. 

When duct testing is listed for the project, the rater seals the supply and return registers and uses a calibrated duct-testing fan and pressure gauge to measure leakage. The recorded result is compared with the applicable project target to determine pass or correction status.

If it fails, the leaks would need to be sealed accordingly. In some cases depending on the situation, an entire HVAC replacement may be necessary. 

Working with Poppy Energy to Have a Duct Leakage Test Performed

If you're concerned about duct leakage or need to complete required California ECC/HERS duct-leakage verification for permit closeout when the approved project documents call for it, contact Poppy Energy. We provide duct testing across Sacramento and surrounding areas, with additional service coverage available by project location.

Simply fill out the form on our website and we'll work with you to schedule a convenient time to conduct your duct leakage test and if need be ductwork options with you. You can also call us directly at (916) 306-5535. We take all necessary health and safety precautions with every visit and are happy to clarify or answer any questions you may have about the test, certificate or other processes.