Residential energy efficiency is now incorporated into updated building codes such as in Massachusetts where the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) has essentially been adopted. It requires that new homes and major renovations be built to a certain air-tightness standard. This standard is less than seven Air Changes per Hour (ACH) when tested with a blower door at a pressure of 50 pascals.
Also included in the new energy codes are standards for air duct tightness. The rough-in duct pressurization test calls for less than 6 cubic feet per minute (CFM) per 100 square feet of conditioned floor area at a pressure of 25 pascals. A post construction test allows for up to 8 cubic feet per minute (CFM) per 100 square feet of conditioned floor area at a pressure of 25 pascals. Duct testing is not required if all ducts are located within conditioned space.
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