IEQ R7: Third-party Test & Balance Report

Requirement

PURPOSE

Ensure HVAC systems are providing airflow rates as designed.

CRITERIA

Retain an independent, third-party testing agent to perform a test and balance of the system’s airflow distribution for all field-installed ductwork. The test and balance report must follow equipment test sheets and communicate required data per Associated Air Balance Council (AABC) or National Environmental Balancing Bureau (NEBB). The third party must be an AABC or NEBB certified organization.

Demonstrate that air system is balanced to within +/- 10% of the Design Air Flow Values at each register per the Test and Balance report.

Refer to ES R5: Duct System Requirements for a complete list of ductwork requirements.

At minimum, the report should include the following Design and Actual values: 

• Supply airflow for each air handling unit and each register 
• Return airflow for each air handling unit and each register 
• Outside airflow for each air handling device
• Percent difference for each of the above measurements 
• Exhaust rates per fan and each register (including all hoods and make-up air) 
• Minimum and maximum airflows for terminal units

Ductless Mechanical Systems

Ductless heating/cooling equipment does not need to be tested, adjusted or balanced by a third-party test and balance technician. However, all projects must receive a test and balance report to ensure that exhaust and outside air flow rates comply with the design.

VERIFICATION 

• Provide third party test and balance report

RESOURCES

Associated Air Balance Council www.aabc.com

National Environmental Balancing Bureau www.nebb.org