This session reviews duct leakage standards, calculation methods and their impact on energy performance and cost.
Learning objectives
- Know and understand the different standards: AABC Leakage Standards / SMACNA Seal Class A / ASHRAE 90.1 / California Uniform Mechanical Code.
- Become familiar with how to decipher the allowed leakage rate when using SMACNA leakage class.
- Know how to compare AABC %leakage standards to System Test CFM vs Duct Section CFM (cumulative leakage rate) using actual rates.
- Be able to explain the considerations for energy losses and cost.
Energy efficiency is a main concern for HVAC systems relating to duct system leakage. The key question is how the engineer specifies duct leakage in specifications. This presentation will discuss leakage standards and considerations for energy losses.
Presenters:
Gaylon Richardson, TBE, CxA, Training Instructor, Engineered Air Balance Co. Inc., Spring, Texas
Mike Kelly, TBE, CxA, Vice President, American Testing, Inc., Ellicott City, Maryland
Many topics related to commissioning, AI advancements, building technology and energy management will be discussed at CxEnergy 2026, a conference and expo taking place April 21โ24, 2026, in Chicago. Save the date and learn more at www.CxEnergy.com.
