This year, autumn officially begins Saturday, Sept. 22. The changing of the seasons is a perfect time to inspect your HVAC system, both for efficiency and Title 24 compliance.
In this issue, the MEP engineering experts at K2 Development Group will share tips about why inspecting your duct system is vital to the health of your heating and cooling system, and talk about what’s required for your ducts from Title 24.
What Does Title 24 Require for HVAC Ducts?
Under Title 24, the California Energy Commission, air distribution ducts need to be sealed. In fact, all new construction – residential and commercial – is subject to Home Energy Rating System (HERS) testing by a third party, independent, and state certified tester. The specific requirements call for no more than 5 percent of the total airflow to be escaping through your ducts.
Another option is to choose ductless systems. Especially popular selections for businesses, ductless systems are effective at creating dust-free zones with consistent temperature settings in separate rooms.
What Can Happen to Ducts that Aren’t Sealed?
In houses and buildings with significant age, it’s common to find ducts that leak 30 percent or more of cooled or heated air – leading to potentially unhealthy indoor air, inconsistent room temperatures, and higher utility bills.
Air ducts that are improperly sealed can also lead to serious health damage to people in your home or building, as dangerous vapors containing carbon monoxide and other fumes from everyday appliances like water heaters and clothes dryers are subject to being sucked back inside by leaky ducts.
Why Should I have My Ducts Cleaned?
The American Lung Association confirms that most Americans spend roughly 90 percent of their time indoors. That’s why it makes sense to take steps to ensure the quality of the air you breathe is as clean as possible.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), it’s common for a buildup from pollen, dust, and other debris to pollute the working parts of HVAC system. The development and growth of dangerous mold is also possible if there is moisture present.
To keep your HVAC system running as efficiently as possible, you should consider having your air ducts cleaned at least once every three years. It’s probably a good idea for more frequent duct cleaning if there are:
- Smokers in your home
- Recently completed renovations or restorations
- Pets that consistently shed hair
For Title 24 compliance, call K2 Development Group.
Because heating and cooling costs account for such a large portion of the average utility bill, it’s vital that you make the smart choice in selecting and maintaining your HVAC system.
Serving California, Nevada, Colorado, Washington, Arizona and Canada, the professional MEP engineering consultants at K2 Development Group are committed to providing difference-making designs and cost-effective engineering designs.
In addition to residential projects, we also have vast experience in designing and providing services for those in the health care, aviation, educational, energy, science and technology, and LEED industries.
To find out how we can help you save money, contact K2 Development Group at 310.935.3773 or email us at INFO@K2D.COM.
