Mandatory Air Leakage / Infiltration / Duct Leakage TESTING
On October 3, 2016, the 2016 New York City Energy Conservation Code (NYCECC) went into effect.Ā As part of that code, there are requirements for an Air Leakage Testing of new residential Buildings or dwelling units.Ā There are requirements for the building envelope and also for HVAC Ductwork located in unconditioned space (for example, a ventilated attic with ductwork).
Similar laws are in place in Connecticut and New Jersey as well as the complete New york State
WHY? These requirements have been implemented because proper Air Sealing can reduce total energy usage in a building by as much as 11% according to the US EPA.Ā
Equipment for these tests is basically a fan to create pressure or suction, and a pressure meter (manometer), The combination of these two instruments allows calibrated measurement of airflow thru a building or its ductwork.
Specific Certifications or Licenses are required to perform these tests.Ā Spray Foam Insulation NYC has personnel with the Certifications. In NYC the organization which is responsibility for requiring, inspecting and enforcing these requirements is the NYC Department of Building (DoB).
It is best if you involve us at the beginning of your project
so that we take help you take steps to insure successful testing.Ā
You can check your plans or TR8 form to see if testing is required.Ā Or, just send plans to us and we will determine what is required.
Who can perform these tests?
Both types of air leakage testing must be performed by a qualified person and the results must be provided to the Department of Buildings (DoB).Ā The testing is performed using Building Leakage Testing and Duct Leakage equipment, known as a Blower Door and a Duct Tester, respectively.
This test must be performed a by a qualified person.Ā A āqualified personā includes:
- An Architect
- A Professional Engineer (normally called a PE)
- A person with acceptable Certifications to perform the test.
These include:
- Building Performance Institute (BPI) Certifications
- RESNET Certified Energy Rater
For more information on Duct Leakage Testing go to page at:Ā DUCT LEAKAGE TESTING
New York State Energy Code - Airtight, Tested Right:
Blower Door Tests for Homeowners
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Homeowners: do you want to make your home more comfortable and affordable? The new New York State Energy Code, which goes into effect in October 2016, features a range of important updates to make buildings more efficient, and one big one that could apply to your home: air sealing.
Air leaks make homes less comfortable while driving up energy bills in winter and summer. In this video, find out what air sealing is, what the new Energy Code requires, and how blower door tests help uncover the chinks in a homeās armor.
New York City Energy Conservation Code (NYCECC), Requirements for an Air Leakage / Infiltration Test of new residential Buildings. Blower Door Test NYC