Commercial Duct Leakage Testing in San Diego, CA

What is commercial duct leakage testing

Commercial Duct Leakage Testing checks the duct system for air loss under a known pressure. We isolate sections of duct, pressurize them with a test fan, and measure how much airflow it takes to hold the set pressure. That airflow represents leakage. Too much leakage means wasted energy, poor comfort, and a code problem on new or altered systems.

Projects that often need testing

• New construction in San Diego or surrounding cities
• Tenant improvements in buildings from Kearny Mesa to UTC
• Rooftop unit change outs and air handler replacements
• Major duct alterations or added VAV zones
• Commissioning and punch list closeout
• Utility incentive or efficiency upgrades tied to duct sealing

We test supply, return, and outside air sections depending on the plans, specifications, and code path chosen by your engineer or contractor. For related checks see Ductwork Inspection and Commercial Air Duct Testing.

Signs your ducts may be leaking

Not sure if you need a test right now? Here are real world clues we see across San Diego buildings.

• Some rooms are too warm while others stay cold during the same time of day
• VAV boxes do not hit target airflow even though the fan is working hard which can point to airflow balancing needs
• The rooftop unit short cycles and runs at a higher speed than expected
• You hear whistling or feel air movement around seams, curbs, or access panels
• Dust streaks at duct joints or insulation seams
• Higher than expected power bills from SDG&E especially during peak times
• Persistent hot or cold spots near long duct runs or flex connections

Building types we serve

Our team handles Commercial Duct Leakage Testing for many facility types across the region.

• Offices in Downtown, Mission Valley, Sorrento Valley, and UTC
• Retail and restaurants around Gaslamp Quarter, Fashion Valley, and Liberty Station
• Healthcare clinics, dental offices, and small surgery centers
• Biotech labs and light manufacturing in Torrey Pines and Sorrento Mesa
• Warehouses and logistics hubs in Otay Mesa and National City
• Hotels, event venues, and gyms across the city
• Schools, charter campuses, and higher education buildings
• Government and military facilities across the county
• Multifamily common areas and amenity spaces

Our process for a smooth pass

You want a pass on the first try. We do too. Here is how we help you get there.

1. Pre test review and scheduling

We look over your mechanical plans and testing section, then set a test window that fits your site work. We confirm access needs, roof access details, parking, and any escort requirements. Have an occupied space with quiet hours in La Jolla or Rancho Bernardo? We schedule around tenants to keep everyone happy.

2. Site readiness checklist

A ready site makes or breaks the day. We share a short checklist before we arrive.

• The duct sections to be tested are installed, insulated, and sealed per plans
• Access panels, taps, and end caps are in place
• Dampers and VAV boxes are installed and wired
• Ductwork is accessible above ceilings or on the roof
• Electrical power is available for test gear
• Fire smoke dampers are in their proper test positions per plan notes
• Any required penetrations or blank offs are allowed by the GC or mechanical contractor
• A contact on site can answer access questions

3. On site test setup

We isolate the section, add blank offs where needed, and attach a test fan and gauges. We bring ladders, fall protection for rooftop work, and floor protection for interior pathways. If we spot obvious leaks during setup, we document them and let you know right away.

4. Pressurize and measure

We pressurize to the setpoint called out by the plans or code path. Then we measure airflow needed to hold that pressure. The result is recorded in both airflow and a leakage percentage that ties back to your system size or the test standard used on your project.

5. Find and fix leaks then retest

If the system does not pass, we can help locate leaks fast using smoke, airflow tools, and a trained eye. We often find items that benefit from duct sealing or air duct repair.

• Loose access doors on air handlers and VAV boxes
• Flex duct connections without proper clamps or sealant
• Gaps at rooftop curbs and economizer hoods
• Missing sealant at transverse joints and taps
• Damper shafts leaking through bushings
• Plenum seams that shifted during lift or transport

Your mechanical team can seal while we are on site. We recheck the area and retest so you can move forward.

6. Same day report

You get a clear PDF report the same day. It includes the items below.

• Project and system details
• Test method, set pressure, and readings
• Pass or fail summary with leakage numbers
• Photos of test setup and any main leak points found
• Notes for inspector or engineer

Need the report sent to the GC, engineer, or city inspector at the City of San Diego Development Services? We can send it directly so nothing gets lost in email threads.

Title 24 and acceptance testing support

Many commercial projects in California must show that duct systems meet leakage limits and acceptance testing steps. Inspectors often ask for written proof before they issue final approval. We align our testing with your plans and code path so you have what you need for signoff.

What we handle for you

• Review the plans and specs so the test matches the project scope
• Confirm the duct sections that must be tested
• Coordinate with your mechanical contractor on sealing and access
• Provide a report with all data needed for closeout
• Be available for questions from inspectors or the engineer of record

Working in the City of San Diego, Chula Vista, La Mesa, Santee, Poway, and other local jurisdictions is routine for us. We understand that each inspector has preferences. Clear data and clean photos keep the process moving.