Duct Leakage Tests for New Residential Construction
Independent duct leakage tests for new residential construction across New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania.
Independent Testing
BPI IDL Certified
Clear Reporting
Serving NJ & Eastern PA
What Does a Duct Leakage Test Measure?
A duct leakage test measures how much air escapes through joints, seams, connections, and equipment in an HVAC duct system. A calibrated duct-testing fan pressurizes the system to 25 pascals while the supply and return openings are temporarily sealed. The measured airflow is reported in CFM25 and compared with the conditioned floor area served by the system to determine whether it meets the applicable target.
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For new residential construction, the result verifies whether the installed ductwork meets the required airtightness level.
Are Duct Leakage Tests Required in
New Jersey and Pennsylvania?
Yes. Covered new residential construction generally requires a duct leakage test, although Pennsylvania provides an exception for certain systems located entirely within the building thermal envelope.
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New Jersey requires duct leakage testing regardless of where the ductwork is located. Testing may be completed during rough-in or after construction. Separate heat- or energy-recovery ventilation ducts are exempt when they are not integrated with the heating or cooling system.
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Pennsylvania generally does not require the test when all ducts and air handlers are entirely within the building thermal envelope. A separate exception applies to qualifying heat- or energy-recovery ventilation ducts.
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See our Testing Requirements page for current limits and official code sources.
What to Expect
1
Scheduling
Call or book online to select a date. We confirm the test stage, number of systems, and project-readiness requirements before the appointment.
2
On-Site Testing
Keystone temporarily seals the supply and return openings, connects a calibrated fan, and tests each required duct system at 25 pascals.
3
Clear Results
We review each system’s result on site. If a system misses its target, we explain the result and identify observable leakage areas where accessible.
4
Compliance Documentation
Once payment is received, Keystone issues a formal duct leakage test certificate the same day for submission to the local enforcing agency.
Is the Duct System Ready for Testing?
Schedule the test after the required ductwork has been installed and sealed. Contact Keystone if you are unsure whether the system is ready for rough-in or post-construction testing.
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Keystone handles temporary sealing, equipment setup, system pressurization, measurement, and documentation on site.
All supply and return ductwork, boots, plenums, and connections for each system being tested are installed and sealed.
Supply and return openings are accessible and ready to be temporarily sealed.
Air handlers are installed for post-construction testing. Tell Keystone in advance if scheduling a rough-in test before an air handler is installed.
Electrical power is available, and air handlers, mechanical rooms, attics, and crawlspaces are accessible.
Current plans or the project’s conditioned floor area and volume are available.
Also Need a
Blower Door Test?
When the enclosure and duct systems are ready, Keystone can usually complete both tests during the same appointment.