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If an intermittent ventilation duct is connected to an air handler, the damper should be shut and the intake vent should not be covered when performing a duct leakage test; if the ventilation will be continuous, the intake should be covered and sealed.

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Contractors use a blower door to measure overall house air leakage.

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An infrared camera can show heat transfer and air leaks not visible to the naked eye.

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Duct Leakage Tests

Guide

Guide describing how to conduct duct leakage tests per RESNET protocols on all components of the HVAC system (including the air handler, ductwork, register boxes/boots, and all air devices such as diffusers, registers, or grilles).

A builder, energy efficiency consultant, and crew supervisor inspect a spray foam installation.

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When architects and builders think of the house as a systems, all of the parts are designed to work together for a healthy, durable home that minimizes builder callbacks while cutting energy, maintenance, and repair costs down the road.

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Building America Energy Performance Brief

Reference

Strategy Guideline: Partnering for High Performance Homes

Reference

Document serving as a starting point that features initial tools and resources for teams to start collaborating to continually improve the energy efficiency and durability of new houses.

Super Energy Efficient Design (S.E.E.D.) Home Evaluation

Reference

Research study determining how well high performance envelope and innovative cooling system interact to cost effectively reduce cooling energy use in this hot-dry climate.

The reHABITAT Guide: For Energy- and Resource-Efficient Retrofit Strategies

Reference

Report developed for Habitat for Humanity about lessons learned from demonstration retrofit projects undertaken by Habitat for Humanity affiliates in New York, Maryland, and Pennsylvania; with building systems consulting and technical assistance provided by Steven Winter Associates.

Heat Pump Quality Installation and Commissioning

Guide

Guide describing best practices for testing and commissioning heat pump systems using smart tools during and after installation.