Tips for January 2019 Energy Code Changes

On January 1st, 2019 NC Energy Code changes will go into effect. The new year is only a few weeks away so it is important to start making changes across the board, now. We noticed a few builders currently struggle to pass code and wanted to make sure everyone is able to pass with the changes impacting North Carolina.  These are key reminders that can impact your duct blaster and blower door results.

Biggest Change in the NC Energy Code are the Duct Leakage Requirements:

• The Total AND leakage to outside is current required to be 6%. As of Jan 1st, total will need to be 5% AND leakage to outside will need to be 4%.

The energy code changes can be difficult for builders because the code requirements are becoming more stringent. Your leakage to outside is very important to understanding if your conditioned space is leaking to unconditioned space. No one wants to condition the outdoors! That’s just asking for an increase in energy costs for the homeowner. If you are currently struggling to pass code, the changes are only going to make it more difficult. Our building science experts are great at knowing what areas will provide a big impact in lowering those numbers.

We are here to help you. Performance Point team is sharing our TOP 3-4 tips for meeting duct leakage requirements under the new 2018 NC Energy Code in the new year. With the help of ENERGY STAR, we have displayed CORRECT (left) and INCORRECT (right) photos to show how to increase your chances in meeting the new Duct Leakage Requirements.

Tips and Tricks:

Caulk or seal the duct boots to sheetrock or subfloor

Mastic connections in ductwork

Seal any penetrations/seams in the air handler setup with mastic and tape or silicone – like drain lines, linesets, connection points of furnace to evaporative coil, etc.

Overall, the photos display proper practice and implementing our tips will increase your chances in meeting the new Duct Leakage Requirements under the 2018 NC Energy Code. They are intended to assist builders in understanding the requirements of the NC Energy Code. With our help, each builder will have higher chances of getting a good number on their duct blaster and blower door test. Please contact us if you have more questions about the Energy Code changes at info@theperformancepoint.com.com.

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