PATS Testing Identifies Duct Leaks, Saves on Energy Expenses
Your ducts play a major role in ensuring that your home comfort system is operating at its optimal capacity. In a typical home, about 20 percent or more of the air is lost due to leaks, holes and poorly connected ducts.
High utility bills, consistent dust build up and rooms that are difficult to heat and cool are all indicators that your duct system needs to be inspected.
Though there are various ways to test your duct system’s functionality, the Performance Air Testing and Sealing (PATS) method uses advanced technology to take the guesswork out of repairing a duct leak by testing and sealing under-performing duct systems.
What is the PATS method?
Unlike other methods, performance testing allows HVAC specialists to identify the exact locations of problems in the duct system before the sealing process, which saves homeowners time and money in the long run.
The PATS method includes a series of tests that typically take one to two hours to complete, depending on the size of the home. The tests will determine how much, if any, air is leaking from your ducts.
When the process is completed, homeowners will enjoy a cleaner, energy efficient and safer environment with conditioned air being spread evenly throughout their home.
What tests are performed with the PATS method?
To verify the effectiveness of the sealing, pre- and post-tests are performed to ensure the duct system is operating at peak condition. The number of tests required vary from home to home, and full access to all rooms and vents for each test is needed.
The performance tests that are conducted using the PATS method include:
- Leakage to the Outside– During this test, ducts in the attic or under the home are examined to measure leaks to the outside of the conditioned space.
- Total House Leakage– A total house leakage test is performed to measure leaks inside your home in places such as doors, windows, cracks and light fixtures.
- Dominant Leakage Test– The dominant test allows HVAC specialists to measure where the dominant leaks are, often in supply ducts or in the return ducts.
- Combustion Appliance Zone Test– In a worst-case scenario, gas appliances may be back-drafting. A combustion appliance zone test will help identify if this is your problem.
- Pressure Pan Test– This test allows technicians to pinpoint the exact location of a leak in case any ducts are completely disconnected from the duct system.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of damaged or leaky central-air ducts, give us a call at 850-580-4029 to speak to one of our home comfort specialists to learn more about the PATS method and our Barineau Heating and Air Conditioning Duct Tune-Up Service.
