Code Builder: Ducts

Issue: Duct leakage is a significant issue for forced-air heating or air-conditioning systems. When ducts are run outside of conditioned space, leakage may decrease heating and cooling efficiencies by 40% or more. Over time, this will add up to a great deal of lost energy and money.

Options: Require sealing and duct testing on replacement or renovated HVAC systems; Require testing of duct system leakage in new construction; Require system static pressure testing