Ductwork in a home is utilized to direct air around the building. That air may be heated, cooled, humidified, dehumidified, watered down or filtered. These systems are designed to provide specific airflow to particular locations. When ducts aren’t appropriately sealed, that air might not make it to its intended area and it might get unwanted pollutants. Ducts can also gain or lose heat through the leaks when installed in unconditioned spaces.We have codes that have been around for numerous code cycles now dealing with ducts in unconditioned areas, duct air sealing, and duct testing. It appears every brand-new code cycle sees a few modifications, the 2024 IECC codes are no different. In this post, we will check out the energy codes dealing straight with duct sealing and testing.Building Cavities utilized for ductwork Before we start, let’s review something that is not permitted, using building cavities as duct goes after. A current post by Robby Schwarz, the author of the Comprehending the Energy Code series here on GBA includes a bigger discussion on building cavities utilized as ductwork.R403.3.2: Structure Cavities Structure framing and cavities shall not be used as ductwork or plenums.This code has actually been around for numerous code cycles, but I still see developing cavities used
as ductwork in new homes being built today. Toe kick signs up are an example.
A duct register boot is cut into the area under a kitchen cabinet or bathroom vanity with the space under the cabinet functioning as a continuation of the duct. The duct needs to extend to the toe kick trim. Toe Ductor makes a system for this function. A duct system for under cabinets. Image credit: Toe Ductor Signing up with and sealing ductwork The requirements for air sealing ducts begin in the energy code however then relocate to … Weekly Newsletter Get building science and energy efficiency guidance, plus special offers, in your inbox. Register for a free
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