Duct Leakage Testing measures how much conditioned air escapes from a home’s HVAC duct system. Excessive duct leakage wastes energy, reduces comfort, and can prevent compliance with state energy codes in Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
Energy Geeks provides certified Duct Leakage Testing for new construction, renovations, additions, HERS Ratings, and incentive program eligibility.
Why Duct Leakage Testing Matters
Duct leakage can significantly undermine a home’s energy performance, even when insulation and equipment are properly installed. Leaky ducts allow conditioned air to escape before it reaches living spaces, leading to higher heating and cooling costs and reduced airflow where it’s needed most. This imbalance often results in comfort issues, noticeable room-to-room temperature differences, and added strain on HVAC equipment. Over time, duct leakage can also contribute to poor indoor air quality and negatively impact overall efficiency, resulting in lower HERS scores.
Learn the fundamentals: What Is Duct Leakage Testing?
Required Duct Leakage Levels in MA & RI
Homes must meet:
Massachusetts (MA 780 CMR / Stretch Code)
- Total leakage: Typically ≤ 4–6 CFM25 per 100 sq. ft. (based on configuration)
- Leakage to exterior: Additional limits if ducts are outside conditioned space
Rhode Island (RI IECC 2024)
- Mandatory duct leakage testing for homes with ducts outside the thermal envelope
- Standard limit: ≤ 4 CFM25 per 100 sq. ft.
Learn more: Duct Testing for Code Compliance
Duct Leakage & HERS Ratings
Duct leakage plays a direct role in how a home performs within the HERS Index. Leakage affects total system efficiency by reducing the amount of conditioned air delivered to living spaces, which in turn increases heating and cooling loads. These impacts are reflected in HERS score results and can influence whether a project meets requirements for program and incentive eligibility.
Explore the impact: Why Duct Leakage Matters for Your HERS Score
Duct Testing for Existing Homes
Testing can identify opportunities to improve comfort and efficiency. More details: Duct Testing for Existing Homes
What Happens During the Test
A calibrated fan and pressure gauge are used to pressurize the duct system and measure leakage at 25 Pascals.
Learn what to expect: Duct Testing – What to Expect
After Testing: Reports & Documentation
You will receive:
- CFM25 leakage values
- Pass/fail documentation
- Recommendations for improvement
- Reports for code officials or HERS raters
Learn more: Duct Testing Results & Reports
Schedule Your Duct Leakage Test
Schedule Duct Testing
Certified testing for code compliance and HERS Ratings.