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Model Code for the Control of Residential HVAC Distribution System Leakage and HVAC-Induced Building Leakage
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Date
1990
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Publisher
Energy Systems Laboratory (http://esl.tamu.edu)
Texas A&M University (http://www.tamu.edu)
Texas A&M University (http://www.tamu.edu)
Abstract
Modifications to local and state codes are seen as an
appropriate strategy for the prevention of residential air
distribution system leakage and its impacts. A model code
element has been developed to assist this strategy.
Recent field studies of Florida residences by
Cummings, Tooley and Moyer have revealed a mean leakage
of 11 percent for the air distribution systems of central, fan-force heating and air conditioning systems. Such leakage
may cause an estimated 20 percent increase in energy
consumption for air conditioning, as well as a 50 percent increase
in peak cooling load and an 80 percent increase in
peak heating load. In addition, building air leakage may be expected to be several times greater when duct leakage is
present or when avenues of air egress from closeable rooms
are absent.
The model duct construction element presented
here contains all of the standards, definitions and code language
needed to replace the current duct construction element
of the local or state code. The content of this paper
was used as a principal source for language adopted for the
1991 Florida Energy Efficiency Code For Building Construction.
Addressed are the most appropriate standards required
for the closure and sealing of metal duct, rigid fibrous
glass duct, and nonmetallic flexible duct. Also addressed
are (1) detailed requirements for the sealing of mechanical
closets when they function as plenum chambers,
(2) detailed requirements for the sealing of enclosed support
platforms or air handlers and furnaces when they function as return duct, (3) detailed requirements for the
sealing of uninhabitable cavities of the building structure,
when they function as duct, and (4) detailed requirements
for the egress of air from enclosed rooms which receive
supply air. Where necessary, commentary is provided to
explain the options available for implementing the model
code provision as well as its ramifications.
All provisions of this model code are compatible
with the requirements, standards and guidelines contained
in related documents published by the following organizations:
the Southern Building Code Congress International,
Inc., the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors National
Association, the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air conditioning Engineers, Underwriters
Laboratories, Inc., the Air Conditioning Contractors Of
America, the Thermal Insulation Manufacturers Association,
the National Fire Protection Association, and the Gypsum
Association.