What You Need to Know About Duct and Envelope Testing

If you’re building a new home or renovating an existing one in Conway, there’s one crucial step that shouldn’t be overlooked: duct and envelope testing in Conway. Not only is it required by code in many cases, but it can also reveal hidden energy loss issues that could cost you money down the road.

At Dewees HVAC, we want you to know exactly what this testing involves, why it matters, and how it can benefit your home and wallet.

What Is Duct and Envelope Testing?

Duct and envelope testing is designed to measure the airtightness of your home’s ductwork and building envelope (the exterior shell of your house, including walls, windows, and doors). It’s a diagnostic process that helps identify air leaks that can lead to energy waste, poor indoor air quality, and uneven heating or cooling.

For duct testing, we use specialized equipment to pressurize the duct system and measure how much air escapes. For envelope testing, a blower door test is used to depressurize your home and detect air leaks around windows, doors, outlets, and other openings.

Why Is This Testing Important?

First, it’s required by the Arkansas energy codes for new construction and many remodeling projects. But beyond code compliance, it’s about efficiency and comfort. A leaky system can reduce your HVAC’s performance by up to 30%, forcing your unit to work harder than necessary. That means higher energy bills and more wear and tear on your equipment.

When your home is properly sealed, you’ll notice improved temperature control, reduced drafts, and more consistent air quality. Even small leaks can add up over time, so early detection can lead to big savings in the long run.

How the Process Works

At Dewees HVAC, we make the testing process quick and painless. Our certified technicians will:

1. Seal off registers and vents to isolate the duct system.
2. Connect a fan and pressure gauge to your system to measure air leakage.
3. Conduct a blower door test to assess the overall envelope leakage.
4. Pinpoint areas of concern so you can make informed decisions about sealing and insulation.

You’ll receive a detailed report with our findings, which you can also provide to code inspectors or energy auditors. We’ll also offer recommendations on practical fixes that can boost your home’s energy efficiency right away.

Benefits of Duct and Envelope Testing

• Lower utility bills thanks to reduced energy loss.
• Improved indoor air quality by keeping pollutants out and conditioned air in.
• Enhanced HVAC performance and system longevity.
• Code compliance and peace of mind knowing your home meets the latest standards.

We believe homeowners in Conway deserve to know how their home performs—and what can be done to improve it.

Whether you’re a homeowner, builder, or contractor, Dewees HVAC is here to help you navigate this process with confidence.

Don’t wait until after your HVAC system struggles or your energy bills spike. Schedule your duct and envelope testing today and take the first step toward a more efficient, comfortable home.

At Dewees HVAC, we pride ourselves on providing quality, courteous service at a reasonable price. Your comfort is our top priority. Contact us today!