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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

Contents
NEBB TESTING, ADJUSTING AND BALANCING COMMITTEE MEMBERS AND OTHER
CONTRIBUTORS FOR CURRENT AND PREVIOUS EDITIONS ……………………………………………………… v

FOREWORD ………………………………………………………………….……………………………………………………..… vii

PART 1. STANDARDS ……………………………………………………..………………………………………………………… 1

Section 1. DEFINITIONS AND ACRONYMS .................................................................................................................. 1

Section 2. NEBB PROGRAMS, QUALITY CONTROLS & COMPLIANCE . ...................................................................... 6

2.1 NEBB PROGRAMS ............................................................................................................................................... 6
2.2 QUALITY ASSURANCE PROGRAM (QAP) North America Only ............................................................................ 7
2.3 QUALITY CONTROL AND COMPLIANCE .............................................................................................................. 7
2.4 CERTIFIED TAB PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES ............................................................................................. 8
2.5 SAFETY ................................................................................................................................................................ 9

Section 3. RESPONSILITIES . ...................................................................................................................................... 10

3.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................................ 10
3.2 DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION TEAM RESPONSIBILITIES .................................................................................. 10

Section 4. STANDARDS FOR INSTRUMENTS AND CALIBRATION .............................................................................. 12

4.1 MINIMUM INSTRUMENTATION ....................................................................................................................... 12
4.2 RANGE AND ACCURACY ................................................................................................................................... 12
4.3 NEBB TAB REQUIRED INSTRUMENTATION LIST ............................................................................................... 13

Section 5. STANDARDS FOR REPORTS AND FORMS ................................................................................................ 14

5.1 REPORTS ........................................................................................................................................................... 14
5.2 REPORT CONTEN ............................................................................................................................................. 14
5.3 TAB EQUIPMENT REPORT FORMS ................................................................................................................... 16

PART 2. PROCEDURES …………………………………………………..……………………………………………………… 26

Section 6. TESTING , ADJUSTING & BALANCING MEASUREMENTS ........................................................................ 26

6.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................................ 26
6.2 AIR PRESSURE PROCEDURES ............................................................................................................................ 26
6.3 AIR VELOCITY .................................................................................................................................................... 27
6.4 TEMPERATURE MEASUREMENT PROCEDURES ............................................................................................... 30
6.5 FLOW MEASURING HOOD PROCEDURES ......................................................................................................... 31
6.6 ROTATIONAL SPEED MEASUREMENT PROCEDURES ........................................................................................ 32

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems
6.7 HYDRONIC PRESSURE PROCEDURES ................................................................................................................ 33
6.8 HYDRONIC FLOW PROCEDURES ....................................................................................................................... 34
6.9 ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENT PROCEDURES ..................................................................................................... 34

Section 7. PRELIMINARY TESTING, ADJUSTING & BALANCING .............................................................................. 39

7.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................................ 39
7.2 PLANNING ......................................................................................................................................................... 39
7.3 PRELIMINARY TAB PROCEDURES ..................................................................................................................... 39

Section 8. AIR SYSTEM TESTING, ADJUSTING & BALANCING PROCEDURES .......................................................... 40

8.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................................ 40
8.2 PRELIMINARY SYSTEM PROCEDURES ………….................................................................................................... 40
8.3 ESTABLISHING FAN TOTAL AIRFLOW ............................................................................................................... 41
8.4 BASIC AIR SYSTEM BALANCING PROCEDURES ................................................................................................. 42
8.5 CONSTANT VOLUME SUPPLY SYSTEMS ........................................................................................................... 44
8.6 MULTIZONE SYSTEMS ...................................................................................................................................... 46
8.7 INDUCTION UNIT SYSTEM ............................................................................................................................... 47
8.8 VARIABLE VOLUME SYSTEM OVERVIEW .......................................................................................................... 48
8.9 VARIABLE AIR VOLUME SYSTEM PROCEDURES ................................................................................................ 50
8.10 DUAL DUCT SYSTEM ....................................................................................................................................... 55
8.11 VARIABLE AIR VOLUME TERMINAL (VAV) UNIT PROCEDURES ...................................................................... 56
8.12 UNDERFLOOR PLENUM SUPPLY AIR SYSTEMS ............................................................................................... 58
8.13 RETURN AIR SYSTEMS .................................................................................................................................... 58
8.14 EXHAUST AIR SYSTEMS .................................................................................................................................. 58
8.15 VARIABLE FLOW SYSTEMS/VARIABLE SPEED DRIVES (VFD) ........................................................................... 59
8.16 ENERGY RECOVERY SYSTEMS ......................................................................................................................... 61
8.17 LABORATORY BIOSAFETY & FUME HOODS .................................................................................................... 62
8.18 INDUSTRIAL EXHAUST HOODS AND EQUIPMENT .......................................................................................... 62
8.19 BUILDING STATIC PRESSURE CONTROL METHODS ........................................................................................ 62

Section 9. HYDRONIC SYSTEM TESTING, ADJUSTING & BALANCING PROCEDURES .............................................. 64

9.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................................ 64
9.2 PRELIMINARY SYSTEM PROCEDURES ............................................................................................................... 64
9.3 HYDRONIC SYSTEM MEASUREMENT METHODS .............................................................................................. 65
9.4 BASIC HYDRONIC SYSTEM PROCEDURES .......................................................................................................... 67
9.5 HYDRONIC SYSTEM BALANCING PROCEDURES .............................................................................................. 69
9.6 BALANCING SPECIFIC SYSTEMS ........................................................................................................................ 72

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

Section 10. SPECIAL SYSTEMS .................................................................................................................................. 75

10.1 CHILLED BEAM SYSTEMS ................................................................................................................................ 75
10.2 STAIRWELL PRESSURIZATION TESTING .......................................................................................................... 76
10.3 ELEVATOR PRESSURIZATION TESTING ........................................................................................................... 77
10.4 MATERIAL HANDLING SYSTEMS ...................................................................................................................... 78

Section 11. OUTDOOR AIR VENTILATION PROCEDURES ......................................................................................... 79

11.1 INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................................................. 79
11.2 MEASUREMENT OPTIONS .............................................................................................................................. 79

APPENDIX A: SAMPLE PRE-TAB CHECKLIST ............................................................................................................. 81

APPENDIX B: SAMPLE TAB SPECIFICATION .............................................................................................................. 81

APPENDIX C: SAMPLE TAB FORMS ........................................................................................................................... 81

APPENDIX D: TEMPERATURES .................................................................................................................................. 82

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

NEBB TESTING, ADJUSTING AND BALANCIN COMMITTEE MEMBERS

AND OTHER CONTRIBUTORS FOR CURRENT AND PREVIOUS EDITIONS

Current TAB Committee:

Jon Sheppard, Chairman Don Pittser

Powhatan, Virginia Erie, Colorado

Andrew P. Nolfo, P.E. Jeffery Hill

Sun City West, Arizona Pea Ridge, Arkansas

Billy Robbins Tom Tunink

Glen Burnie, Maryland Centennial, Colorado

Dave, Wood Travis R. Short, P.E.

Hatfield, Pennsylvania Blue Springs, Missouri

Additional Contributors:
Bohdan Fedyk, Technical Director
Buffalo, New York

Steve Clark
Milton, Ontario

Jim Kelleher
Capitol Heights, Maryland

Jonathen Lloyd
Gold Coast, Australia

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

Past Contributors

William C. Abernathy1 Tom Hanlon Bruce Meyer, P.E.

Rockville, Maryland Little Rock, Arkansas St. Paul, Minnesota

Wade Adams George Hightower, P.E.1 Joseph Miller

Redwood City, California Atlanta, Georgia Alton, Virginia

James S. Barrie, P.E. Rodney Hinton Jim Oxner, P.E.

Denver, Colorado Greenville, South Carolina Shreveport, Louisiana

James R. Bell, P.E. Stephen Holzinger Ted Salkin, P.E.

Dallas, Texas Indianapolis, Indiana Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

W. David Bevirt, P.E.1 James Huber Al Scavino, P.E.

Tucson, Arizona Annapolis, Maryland Richmond, California

Mike Bledsoe Eric Jenison Greg Sharkey

Camby, Indiana Deerfield Beach, Florida Fort Worth, Texas

Robert M. Bolton Raymond Jung William E. Simmons

Pawtucket, Rhode Island Baltimore, Maryland Kansas City, Kansas

William T. Bride, Jr.1 Lester Lang James A. Smith

Lawrence, Massachussetts St. Louis, Missouri Santa Rosa, California

Willard W. Brockway Dan Langford1 Steve Smith

Denver, Colorado Jacksonville, Florida Napa, California

Paul Chesteauneuf Jean Paul LeBlanc George Theisen

Moorabbin, Victoria, Australia Montreal, Canada Greensboro, North Carolina

Martin A Cirillo Marty Loft B. Wesley Thornburg

Baja, California Milton, Washington Memphis, Tennessee

Mike Dolim Thomas LoScalzo, P.E Ted H, Turner

Gaithersburg, Maryland Olathe, Kansas Memphis, Tennessee

Al Fudge Leonard Maiani1 Mike Vawter

Issaquah, Washington Athol, Idaho Portland, Oregon

Raymond (Jack) Fulton1 Michael Margolis Daniel Whalen

Indianapolis, Indiana Brentwood, Maryland Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Robert Gleeson, P.E. Fred Menger Nick White, P.E.

Universal City, Texas Minneapolis, Minnesota Abilene, Texas

Edward Halady Mel Wind, P.E.1

Buffalo, New York Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

1
Deceased

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

Foreword

The NEBB Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems (Procedural
Standard) establishes a uniform and systematic set of criteria for the performance of the testing, adjusting
and balancing of environmental or Heating, Ventilating and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) systems.

Today’s buildings provide highly controlled, sustainable energy efficient indoor environments. These
building include very sophisticated mechanical systems created by a team of skilled professionals. A key
member of this team is the NEBB Certified Testing, Adjusting and Balancing (TAB) Firm (CF).

This ninth edition represents an update from past editions but remains divided into two distinct parts:
standards, and procedures. This Procedural Standard has been developed using language defined by
“Required” (Minimum Requirements) as it relates to the standards and procedures described in this
manual.

This Standard and these procedures are intended as the minimum NEBB requirements that a CF must
follow when performing TAB procedures. Contract documents supersede the NEBB requirements when
those requirements exceed those stated in the Standard. Conversely, however, the Standard’s inclusion of
“recommended“ testing or recording of parameters are not a requirement for a report to be certified. It is
important that this Standard provide procedural direction on testing above and beyond the minimum
requirements for report certification so as to be a useful tool in diagnostic and performance related
investigations. Recommend items will be clearly delineated within this Standard. Unless so delineated all
testing and reporting requirements of the Standard are considered mandatory under the reporting criteria
section. This Procedural Standard has been carefully compiled and reviewed by the NEBB TAB Committee.

Part 1. STANDARDS (Applies to Section 1 thru 5)

Part 1 covers Definitions, as well as requirements for Quality Control and Compliance, Instrumentation
Requirements, and TAB reports. Revised requirements for TAB instruments and reports are identified. The
report requirements allow the CF flexibility in designing their reports by defining sets of information that
will be required to complete a NEBB Certified TAB Report.

Part 2. PROCEDURES (Applies to Section 6 thru 11)

Part 2 covers measurement procedures and the testing, adjusting and balancing of both air and hydronic
distribution systems.

Part 3. APPENDICES
The Appendices include a Sample Pre-TAB Checklist, information about TAB Specifications, and Sample TAB
Forms,

This edition of NEBB Procedural Standard, when used by CFs, will assure the building owner or operator a
properly balanced environmental system within design and installation limitations.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

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PART 1

STANDARDS
Section 1. DEFINITION AND ACRONYMS

ABSOLUTE Value: The numerical value without regard to its sign. For example, the absolute value of 3 is 3,
and the absolute value of -3 is also 3.

Acceleration: The vector quantity that specifies the time rate of change of velocity.

Accuracy: The capability of an instrument to indicate the true value of a measured quantity.

Adjusting: The varying of system flows by partially closing balancing devices, such as dampers and valves,
and varying fan speeds to achieve optimum system operating conditions within design and installation
limitations.

AHJ: Authority Having Jurisdiction is the local governing authority having jurisdiction over a designated
portion of the project.

Air Change Rate (also referred to as Air Changes per Hour or ACH): The number of times the total air
volume of a defined space is replaced in a given until of time. Ordinarily corrupted by dividing the total
volume of the subject space into the total volume of air supplied to or exhausted from the space per unit
of time. (Supply air volume used to calculate ACH in rooms requiring a positive pressure. Exhaust air volume
is used to calculate ACH in rooms requiring a negative pressure).

Air Exchange Rate: Air exchange rate is the rate at which outdoor air replaces indoor air within a given
space or room.

AHU: Air Handling Unit

Balancing: The methodical proportioning of air and hydronic flows through the system mains, branches,
and terminal devices using acceptable procedures to achieve the specified airflow or hydronic flow within
installation, testing and design limitations.

Calibrate (Calibration): The act of comparing an instrument of unknown accuracy with a standard of
known accuracy to detect, correlate, report, or correct by adjustment unacceptable variation in the
accuracy of the tested instrument..

Conformed Contract Documents: Current and complete contract documents (plans and specification).

Corrective Action: Repairing, replacing, re-building, calibrating or adjusting of equipment or systems.

Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

CV: Constant Volume.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

Deficiency: Any installation, measurement, or finding outside the tolerances allowed by NEBB Procedural
Standard or project specifications.

Differential Pressure (∆P): The difference between two pressures measured with respect to the same
reference pressure.

Diffuser: Outlet designed to mix supply air and room air, and to distribute it in varying directions (mayor
may not have an integral damper).

Diversity: In air or hydronic systems, diversity is the term used to describe the difference in air or water
volume between the prime mover (fan or pump) and the terminal elements. An example would be a fan
system where the fan is sized for 85% of the total air flow at the terminals in this example, the diversity
would be represented as 85% diversity.

DX: Direct Expansion refrigerant type system.

Embedded Motor: Any motor that is inaccessible without disassembling the equipment it is mounted in.
(Example: cassette ductless units, Fan Powered VAV, VRF fan coil units, direct drive ceiling exhaust fans,
etc.)

EOR: Engineer of Record. The engineer responsible for project plans and specifications.

Environmental Systems: Systems using a combination of mechanical equipment, airflow, water flow and
electrical energy to provide heating, ventilating, air-conditioning, humidification, and dehumidification for
the purpose of human comfort or process control of temperature and humidity.

Equal Area Method: Term used to describe the method of duct traversing by averaging velocity readings
taken from the center of equal areas of the duct cross-section.

ESP: External Static Pressure.

Face Velocity: The average velocity of air moving perpendicular to the entry/exit plane, usually expressed
in feet per minute (fpm) or meters per second (m/s)

Fenestration: Any opening in a building structure such as windows, skylights, window walls, doors,
louvers, and access panels.

Function: The particular type of data measurement specified in NEBB Standard for Instrumentation and
Calibration.

GRD: An acronym referring to Grilles, Register and Diffusers (see individual definitions).

Grille: Louvered or perforated face over an opening with no balancing damper integral to the device.

High Efficiency Particulate Air Filter (HEPA): An extended media dry-type filter in a rigid frame having a
minimum particle-collection efficiency of 99.97 percent for 0.3 micron particulate at a rated airflow.

IP: Inch/Pound Term used to describe measurement system used in the United States and elsewhere.

Log Tchebycheff Method or Log-T: A method of laying out a duct traverse using logarithmic based hole
and sensor grid patterns.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

Memory Stop: An adjustable mechanical device that allows a valve to be close (for service) and limits the
valve to predetermined position when re-opened.

Micron: A unit of measurement equal to one-millionth of a meter or approximately 0.00003937 inch (25
microns are approximately 0.001 inch).

NEBB Certified TAB Report: The data presented in a NEBB Certified TAB Report accurately represents
system measurements obtained in accordance with the current edition of the NEBB Procedural Standard
for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems. A NEBB Certified TAB Report does not
necessarily guarantee that the systems included are balanced to design flows. Any variances from design
quantities, which exceed NEBB tolerances or contract document tolerances, are noted in the test-adjust-
balance report project summary.

NEBB Certified TAB Firm (CF): A firm that has met and maintains all the requirements of NEBB for firm
certification in Testing, Adjusting, and Balancing and is currently certified by NEBB. A CF shall employ at
least one NEBB Certified TAB Professional on Staff.

NEBB Certified Professional (CP): An individual who has successfully passed the professional level
certification examinations and maintains the CP re-certification requirements of NEBB.

NEBB Certified Technician (CT): An individual who has successfully passed the technician level certification
examinations. A CT shall be supervised by a NEBB Certified TAB Professional.

NEBB Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems (Procedural
Standard): A NEBB publication that outlines responsibilities, instrument standards, report requirements,
measurement procedures and job performance expectations for the CF, CP and CT.

NPSH: Net Positive Suction Head.

OA: Outside Air.

Phase: To schedule or order activities so as to be available or complete when, or as, needed. Also used in
electrical to decide the number of wires (or phases) in an Alternating Current (AC) power circuit.

PICV: Pressure Independent Control Valves.

Point-to-Point Verification: This activity confirms a specific sensor or device is paired and connected to
the proper controller.

Potable Water: Water that is satisfactory for drinking, culinary and domestic purposes and that meets the
requirements of the Health Authority Having Jurisdiction.

Precision: the ability of an instrument to produce repeatable readings of the same quantity under the
same conditions. The precision of an instrument refers to its ability to produce a tightly grouped set of
values around the mean value of the measured quantity.

Procedure: A defined approach that outlines the execution of a sequence of work or operations.
Procedures are used to produce repeatable and defined results.

QAP: Quality Assurance Program.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

RA: Return Air. Sometimes used to designate Relief Air.

Range: The upper and lower limits of an instrument’s ability to measure values for which the instrument is
calibrated.

Recommended: Testing procedures, measurements, and/or data gathering, whether included in the
certified report or otherwise, that enables further diagnostic review and troubleshooting above and
beyond the requirements for report certification.

Register: Combination grille and damper assembly.

Resolution: The smallest change in a measure variable that an instrument can detect, the implementation
of actions that correct a tested or observed deficiency.

Required: Designates any data, function or action that must be gathered or performed to qualify as a
NEBB certified report, unless such data is impossible to gather or a given function or action cannot be
performed. Any information or action that cannot be fulfilled in accordance with this Procedural Standard
must be clearly in the final report summary.

RPM: Revolution Per Minute.

RTU: Roof Top Unit.

SA: Supply Air.

Shaft Pressurization System: A type of smoke-control system intended to positively pressurize stair and
elevator shafts with outdoor air by using fans to keep smoke from contaminating the shafts during an
alarm condition.

Shutoff Head: Term used to describe the dynamic measurement of a pump’s total dynamic head at no
flow. Performed by closing the pump discharge valve only.

SI: International System of Units (Systéme international dúnités), the modern international standard
version of the metric system.

Smoke-Control System: An engineered system that uses fans to produce airflow and pressure differences
across barriers to limit smoke movement.

Smoke-Control Zone: A space within a building that is enclosed by smoke barriers and is a part of a zoned
smoke-control system.

Stairwell Pressurization System: A type of smoke-control system that is intended to positively pressurize
stair towers with outdoor air by using fans to keep smoke from contaminating the stair tower during an
alarm condition.

Static Head: The pressure due to weight of fluid above the point of measurement.

Static Pressure (SP): In an HVAC System, the potential energy a system at the point of measurement to
produce and maintain fluid flow against system resistance. Can be positive or negative relative to the
appropriate reference pressure.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

Static Test: Test or inspection that validates a specified static condition such as pressure testing. Static
tests may be specification or code initiated.

Suction Head: The height of fluid surface above or below the centerline of a pump on the suction side.

System Effect: A phenomenon that can create undesired conditions that cause reduced capacities in all or
part of a system. System Effect cannot be measured directly, but can be estimated.

TDH: Total Dynamic Head. The total equivalent height that a fluid is to be pumped, taking into account
friction losses in the pipe.

Terminal Device: A point where the controlled medium enters or leaves the distribution system (air side,
grille, register or diffuser) (hydronic side, heat transfer elements such as coils , radiant panels, chill beams,
etc.).

Terminal Unit: A device that regulates the amount and/or the temperature of the controlled medium (i.e.
VAV Box, CV Box, Fan Terminal Unit (FTU), etc.).

Test Procedure: A written protocol that defines methods, personnel, and expectations for test conducted
on components, equipment, assemblies, systems, and interfaces among systems.

Testing: The use of specialist and calibrated instruments to measure parameters such as temperature,
pressure, vapour flow, airflow, fluid flow, fluid quantities, rotational speed, electrical characteristics,
velocity, sound and vibration level, air and hydronic quantities, and other data in order to determine
performance, operation, or function.

Testing, Adjusting and Balancing (TAB): A systematic process or service applied to HVAC systems, and
other environmental systems to achieve and document air and hydronic flow rates.

Total Pressure (TP): The sum of static pressure and velocity pressure at the point of measurement in the
system (TP = SP + VP) Value may be positive or negative.

TSP: Total Static Pressure.

Troubleshooting: Procedural activities for investigating a specific fault or failure of a system or piece of
equipment.

VAV: Variable Air Volume.

Velocity: The vector quantity that specifies the time rate of change of displacement.

Velocity Pressure (VP): The kinetic energy of flow exerted only in the direction of flow. Velocity pressure
cannot be measured directly. It is the difference between total pressure and static pressure at the point of
measurement.

Zone: A volume of building served by a single ventilation system. For buildings with natural ventilation
only, the whole building is considered a zone.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

Section 2. NEBB PROGRAMS, QUALITY CONTROL & COMPLIANCE

2.1 NEBB PROGRAMS

NEBB is a not-for-profit organization founded in 1971 to:

a. Develop standards, procedures and programs for Building Systems Commissioning,
Cleanroom Performing Testing, Fume Hood Performance Testing, Retro-Commissioning and
Building Enclosure Testing, Sound Level Testing, Testing-Adjusting-Balancing Environmental
Systems and Vibration Testing.
b. Promote advancement of the industry through technical training and development.
c. Operate programs to certify firms and qualify individuals who meet and maintain NEBB
standards.

Additional information on the NEBB Program is available at www.nebb.org

2.1.1 NEBB Disciplines

NEBB establishes and maintain standards, procedures and specifications for work in its various
disciplines, which include:
a. Building Enclosure Testing (BET)
b. Building Systems Commissioning (BSC)
c. Cleanroom Performance Testing (CPT)
d. Fume Hood Performance Testing (FHT)
e. Retro-Commissioning (RCx)
f. Sound Measurement (SM)
g. Testing, Adjusting an Balancing (TAB) of air and hydronic systems
h. Vibration Measurement (VM)

Each discipline is anchored by a NEBB Procedural Standard manual that provides guidelines for
work to be performed. NEBB also has created technical manuals, trainings materials, programs and
seminars to enhance and support each discipline.

2.1.2 Certification of Firms

NEBB certifies firms that meet certain criteria, ensuring strict conformance to NEBB’s Procedural
Standard. Among other requirements, NEBB CFs must document a record of responsible
performance and own a complete set of instruments as listed in the NEBB TAB Required
Instrumental List. The firm must employ a NEBB CP for each discipline in which the firm is certified.

See the NEBB website for the current requirements.

2.1.3 Certification of Professionals

CPs are responsible for the supervision of all work performed by the CF and its employees. CPs
must possess a strong grasp of engineering principles, system design, system equipment and
procedures. They must also demonstrate proficiency in execution of the work including problem
solving, troubleshooting, field measurements, proper ue of instruments and performance of the
actual work in the field.

See the NEBB website for the current requirements.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

2.1.4 Certification of Technicians

See the NEBB website for the current requirements.

2.1.5 Recertification Requirements for NEBB CPs

See the NEBB website for the current requirements.

2.1.6 Recertification Requirements for NEBB CF’s

See the NEBB website for the current requirements.

2.2 QUALITY ASSURANCE PROGRAM (QAP) North America Only

The credibility of NEBB is built by maintain integrity through high standards, quality programs and
demonstrated capabilities of its CFs. As further assurance, NEBB offers a quality Assurance Program
to guarantee that the work will be accomplished in accordance with tis standards. The NEBB
Certificate of Conformance may be provided if specified or requested but is not mandatory.

2.2.1 Program Benefits

The QAP affords building owners, architects, engineers and other agents a reliable basis for
specifying work within the various disciplines of NEBB. The program promotes proper execution of
projects by ensuring compliance with Procedural Standard.

2.2.2 NEBB Quality Assurance Program Certificate

If specified in the contract documents, the CF will make application to the NEBB Office for a
Certificate of Conformance Certification. The QAP Conformance Certification is applicable to any
project.

2.3 QUALITY CONTROL AND COMPLIANCE

Building owners are entitled to a professional service by every NEBB CF on every project, whether
the job is NEBB specified or not it is the responsibility of the NEBB CF and NEBB CP to establish and
maintain procedures and practices that will assure a consistent pattern of high quality work on all
projects.

2.3.1 TAB Work Compliance

Project scope is guided by the project specifications. Project TAB procedures will be guided by the
NEBB TAB Procedural Standard, recorded in the TAB report and will serve as a record of data
acquired and work performed.

Regardless of project specifications, data acquisition will always conform to the NEBB Procedural
Standard in effect at time contract was issued. If specification requirements exceed the current
NEBB Procedural Standard, those specifications will take precedence.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

2.4 CERTIFIED TAB PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

CPs shall ensure that the project work is performed to NEBB Procedural Standard and that copy of
the Standard is available if needed.

2.4.1 Further Responsibilities

The NEBB TAB CP has project responsibility which includes authority to represent the NEBB TAB CF.
examples of project responsibility may include labor decisions, negotiating change orders,
committing to contract interpretations and implementing changes in job schedules.

The NEBB TAB CP has the responsibility to assure that the systems have been tested, adjusted and
balanced in accordance with this Procedural Standard and the contract documents to assure the
accuracy of all data included in the final TAB report. Factors such as technician training, instrument
use, coordination, supervision, work instructions and project communication play a critical role in
achieving this requirement.

2.4.2 CT Training

The NEBB CP is responsible to ensure that CT’s performing the work are properly trained and
possess sufficient skills within the following areas:

2.4.2.1 CT TAB Procedures Training

CT’s must be prepared to measure and record data in the manner specified within the Procedure
Standard, as well as to perform the specific tasks and procedures to acquire the data. This
preparation requires CT’s to possess knowledge of HVAC system fundamentals and operating
characteristics.

2.4.2.2 CT Instrument Use and Maintenance

NEBB Certified Professionals and Technicians shall possess knowledge and skill in the proper use
and care of instruments required to perform the work. This includes a thorough understanding of
the operating principles and use of TAB equipment and instruments. Considerations for the delicate
nature of many of the TAB instruments typically used, as well as the adverse effects of dirt, shock,
jarring movements and exceeding rated capacities, shall be addressed along with the proper
methods for storing and transporting the instruments.

2.4.3 Coordination/Supervision

The NEBB Certified Professional is responsible for ensuring either a NEBB CP or NEBB CT is
continually present while TAB work is being performed on every NEBB certified project, and
directing those technicians in performing the work, the NEBB CP is ultimately responsible for the
accuracy of any field measurements and certified reports generated.

2.4.4 Project Communication

Before the final report is submitted, the CP may provide reports of progress and problems as
encountered to appropriate project personnel. When reporting a problem, the CP may provide
input as needed to determine causes and make recommendations.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

2.4.5 Work Completion

The CP determines when the TAB project is complete, and when to submit the Final TAB Report.
Generally, the specified TAB project is complete when:
a. All HVAC systems and components are tested and balanced within specified tolerances

OR

b. Reasonable efforts have been taken to achieve requirements of Procedural Standard. In this
event, the CP will notify the appropriate project personnel of system deficiencies preventing
balancing within design tolerances before the final report is submitted. Any variances from
design quantities, which differ from NEBB tolerances, shall be noted in the project summary
of the Final TAB Report.

2.4.6 Compilation and Submission of Final TAB Reports

A Final TAB Report shall include information and data to provide an accurate quantitative record of
system information, measurements and final settings. Reports shall include notes and comments as
appropriate to provide the reviewer with additional details including test procedure, system
operation and results. Reports shall meet the requirements listed in Section 5 and 6.

The certification page bears the stamp of the CP/CF. The stamp on the certification page is signed
as evidence that the CP has personally reviewed and accepted the report. If the report is submitted
digitally, the stamp and signature may also be digital as long as the CP has a secure way of applying
the stamp and signature without fear of misuse by others.

2.5 SAFETY

A Firms responsibility goes beyond just the technical aspect of Testing, Adjusting and Balancing. A
safe work environment must also be present for all who are working. This includes the TAB
personnel on site. In addition to any site specific safety guidelines and rules, a CF may also want to
have a detailed safety plan in place and consider minimum training for all personnel similar to
OSHA 10, or other available training programs depending on location. At a minimum the CF, CP and
CT should all be aware of the requirements of the job site, and the local AHU for each project.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

Section 3. RESPONSIBILITIES
3.1 INTRODUCTION

Many approaches can be taken to execute a Testing, Adjusting and Balancing (TAB) project that
meets NEBB standards. The following will outline the responsibilities Design Professionals and
Construction Teams have to ensure a successfully TAB project.

3.2 DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION TEAM RESPONSIBILITIES

3.2.1 Design Professional Responsibilities

For a NEBB Certified Report, the TAB contract documents shall:

a. Specify equipment and systems to the Tested, Adjusted and Balanced, in accordance with
NEBB Procedural Standard. (please reference Section 8 for suggested system requirements)
b. Specify the TAB requirements for any existing equipment//systems and/or remodeled areas
including pre-construction/pre-demo testing requirements if applicable.
c. Define who retains the services of the CF and requires that the CF be retained early in the
construction process.
d. Identify the system components within contract documents required for successful balancing
(i.e. main, branch and final volume dampers, flow measuring stations, pressure and/or
temperature test ports, other applicable balancing devices, etc.).
e. Specify that the control system firm both commission and document their work prior to TAB
work commencing.
f. Specify that the control system firm provides access to hardware, software and on-site
technical support as require at no cost to the TAB CF.
g. Specify adequate access to all equipment and components required by the TAB process.
h. Completely define commissioning support responsibilities for the CF.
i. Specify who is to provide and install any drive changes required.

3.2.2 Construction Team Responsibilities

For a NEBB Certified Report the TAB contract documents shall specify that the Construction Team
will:
a. Provide the CF with a conformed set of contract documents (drawings, specifications, and
approved submittals), including all current approved change orders and contract
modifications.
b. Develop a project schedule with the input of the CF that coordinates the work of other
disciplines, providing adequate time in the construction process for successful completion of
the TAB work.
c. Notify the CF of all schedule changes.
d. Ensure that the building enclosure is complete, including structural components, window
and door installation, door hardware, ceilings, stairs, elevator/mechanical and roof systems.
All plenums and chases must be sealed.
e. Ensure that all necessary mechanical and HVAC work is complete and is safe to operate. This
includes, but is not limited to mechanical, electrical, and control safeties, duct leakage
testing, hydrostatic testing, piping system flushing, filling, venting and chemical treating. All
strainers should be cleaned and the correct screens installed. The duct systems and all
related equipment should be cleaned and the specified clean air filters installed. For

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems
additional requirements, see Appendix A. Sample Pre-TAB Checklist within this edition of
Procedural Standard.
f. Complete the installation of permanent electrical power system serving the HVAC
equipment and systems. Such electrical systems should be properly installed in accordance
with all applicable codes to ensure the safety of all construction personnel.
g. Perform startup of all HVAC equipment and systems in accordance with manufacturer’s
recommendations.
h. Complete the installation, programming (including design parameters and graphics),
calibration and startup of all building control systems. Verify that the building control system
provider has commissioned and documented their work before TAB works begins.
i. Require that the control system firm provides access to hardware, software and onsite
technical support as required at no cost to the CF.
j. Furnish and install all drive changes as required.
k. Provide TAB Firm with a controlled environment (steady status of flow, pressure, control,
temperature) to perform TAB activities so that results can be replicated during TAB
Verification. The NEBB CP must be consulted during scheduling to identify what controlled
environment is required to provide successful TAB and verification. To create a controlled
environment, in addition to mechanical systems being complete and under control, other
variables must be considered such as building envelope (i.e. windows, doors, door sweeps,
gaskets, etc.), other trade activities etc.
l. Make corrections reported in the deficiency list in a timely manner and provide written
notice when complete.

3.2.3 NEBB Certified TAB Firm Responsibilities

The CF shall:
a. Follow the current NEBB Procedural Standard when performing the TAB work.
b. Communicate through proper channels on a regular basis, design, installation, or functional
concerns that prevent the CF from performing and completing the TAB work in accordance
with current NEBB Procedural Standard and design specification.
c. Perform the specified commissioning support requirements.
d. Publish a NEBB Certified TAB Report.
e. If the design team and/or construction team do not provide the above, the Report Summary
should detail what is missing or not compliant within the report and why.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

Section 4. STANDARDS FOR INSTRUMENTS AND CALIBRATION

4.1 MINIMUM INSTRUMENTATION

A NEBB Certified TAB Firm (CF) will, at minimum, own the instrumentation listed in the NEBB TAB
Required Instrumentation List. Respective instruments will be applied in accordance with and
maintained to properly perform in accordance with manufacturer recommendations.

4.2 RANGE AND ACCURACY

A NEBB Certified TAB Firm shall possess instruments (of the firm’s choice) for each function and
range listed in the NEBB TAB Required Instrumentation List. Each instrument shall have been
specifically designed to meet the criteria (Minimum Accuracy, Range, and Resolution) of the
function.

Instrumentation with multiple capabilities shall be accepted for more than one function when
submitting documentation for a firm’s certification, providing that each separate function needs
NEBB requirements.

Information and data regarding accuracy of all submitted instrumentation for the stated function
shall be available from the manufacturer.

All required instrumentation shall be calibrated in accordance with the manufacturer’s

recommendations by a testing laboratory traceable to the National Institute of Standards and
Technology or equivalent institute in countries other than the United States.

Firms with multiple sets of instrumentation shall comply with either of the following conditions as
minimum requirement for NEBB certification:

a. Calibrate all instrumentation used by the firm on TAB projects in accordance with NEBB
Instrument Requirements as listed in the NEBB TAB Required Instrumentation List.

OR

b. Maintain a complete set of calibrated instrumentation used for comparison with regularly
used instrumentation. Instruments shall be calibrated in accordance with NEBB Instrument
Requirements as listed in the NEBB TAB Required Instrumentation List. Periodic checking of
regularly used instrumentation against the calibrated set shall be performed. Acceptance
criteria for the results of the comparisons are the responsibility of the NEBB Certified TAB
Firm and Professional.

NEBB TAB CPs must understand the importance of using accurate instrumentation in the field, and
shall be prepared to have witnesses verify their work with the Firm’s calibrated set of
instrumentation. Results of the data verification shall validate the accuracy of the instrumentation
used to perform the work.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

4.3 NEBB TAB REQUIRED INSTRUMENTATION LIST

*Please refer to the NEBB website (www.nebb.org) for the current NEBB TAB Required
Instrumentation List.

*Please note that a Direct Reading Hood as listed in the NEBB TAB Required Instrumentation List
does not need to be returned to the manufacturer for calibration if the meter can be removed and
calibrated on its own. Only hoods that have integrated meters that cannot be removed must be
sent in for calibration. If the meter can be used for other functions, it must be calibrated for all
functions for which it is submitted.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

Section 5. STANDARDS FOR REPORTS AND FORMS

5.1 REPORTS

The NEBB Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems
minimum requirements of a NEBB Certified TAB Report.

NEBB does not require the use of NEBB produced forms. Customized forms are acceptable based on
the data acquisition requirements of this section. Contract document data reporting requirements
shall take precedence when they exceed minimum requirements of NEBB.

If a reporting platform software is used, it is the sole responsibility of the NEBB CP to ensure the
submitted reports are NEBB Complaint!

5.2 REPORT CONTENT

Listed below are the minimum requirements for each NEBB Certified TAB Report.

5.2.1 Report Title

Include: the heating: “Certified Test, Adjust and Balance Report” (Project Name/Address: Engineer
Name: HVAC Contractor Name: NEBB Certified TAB Firm Name/Address/Certification Number)

5.2.2 Report Certification1

The certification page bears the stamp of the NEBB Certified TAB Professional (CP). The stamp on
the certification page is signed as evidence the CP has reviewed the report and assumes
responsibility for all work, test methods and observed condition documented within.

Include: Project Name: Certifying NEBB Certified TAB Professional’s Name: Certification Number,
Expiration Date, certifying NEBB Certified TAB Professional’s NEBB Stamp (signed &dated); and the
following exact verbiage.

“The data presented in this report is a record of system measurement and final adjustments that
have been obtained in accordance with the current edition of the NEBB Procedural Standard for
Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems. The measurements shown, and the
information given in this report are certified to be accurate and complete, at the time and date
information was gathered. Any variances from design quantities, which exceed NEBB tolerances,
are noted in the TAB report project summary.”

5.2.3 Table of Contents

The table of contents with page numbers or clickable links, serves as a guide to the organization of
the TAB report. For digital reports, bookmarks may be used as the table of contents as long as every
data page has a consecutive and unique page number.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

5.2.4 Report Summary/Remarks

A NEBB Certified Tab Report includes a required narrative description of system set-up conditions
established prior to testing, adjusting and balancing. The narrative must explain the rationale for
how the system was configured for testing, such as to establish full flow conditions, control
configuration, and the steps taken to achieve the desired set-up.

This section shall also include a listing of deficiencies in the summary and identify the appropriate
pages in the report. Part of the CP’s responsibilities is to determine “noteworthy “deficiencies. This
section might also be used to discuss possible recommendations such as solutions to system
balance issues.

A summary of all Procedural Standard items that exceed NEBB and/or Contract Document
tolerances or any other items that require discussion or explanation shall be included.

A list of all items which could not be obtained for reasons beyond the control of the CF shall be
included.

1 this data may be included on the report title page or on a separate certification page.

5.2.5 All Report Pages

All tested items included in the NEBB TAB Report shall be clearly identified with a unique
designation. Schematic diagrams, mechanical plans where permissible, or a narrative description
may be used. Each data form supplied in a NEBB TAB Report shall include the name of the
individual who reported the information, along with the date the data was collected.

Include: Project name, sequentially numbered pages and remarks section to record pertinent
information.

5.2.6 Instrument Calibration

This is a listing of the instruments that were used on the project, or will be used to verify the
reported data including instrument type, manufacturer, model number, serial number and
calibration date.

5.2.7 Abbreviation List

Any abbreviations or acronyms used in the report shall be defined in an abbreviation list.

5.2.8 Drawings and Schematics

Include: Pertinent contract drawings, schematics, sketches, or other mechanical plans where
permissible that identify the area, location, etc. of the tested equipment/systems. A narrative
description may be used.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

5.3 TAB EQUIPMENT REPORT FORMS

Listed below are the requirements for various types of equipment, systems and measurements in a
NEBB Certified TAB Report.

5.3.1 Air Handling Unit Test Data (Central Station)

Design/Submittal Data:
Unit designation Total SP and External SP
Manufacturer Fan rpm
Model number Fan motor HP (kW)
Total design airflow Fan motor rpm
Total outlet airflow Fan motor voltage
Outside airflow Fan motor phase

Actual/Test Data:
Unit serial number Fan motor operating amperages
Supply airflow Corrected Nameplate Amps
Return airflow Actual BHP
Outside airflow Motor sheave OD/bore/Operating PD
Fan motor manufacturer Fan sheave OD/bore
Fan motor HP (kW) Sheave centerline distance
Fan motor rpm Number belts/size
Fan motor frame Fan rpm
Fan motor nameplate phase Total SP and External SP
Fan motor rated voltage Unit static pressure profile of all
Fan motor rated amperage components
Fan motor service factor Any final setpoints or settings
Fan motor operating voltages Fan motoroperating Hz/Speed

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

5.3.2 Air Handling Unit Test Data (Central Station/Package/Unitary Direct Drive)

Design/Submittal Data:
Unit designation Total SP and External SP
Manufacturer Fan rpm
Model number Fan motor HP (kW)
Total design airflow Fan motor voltage
Total outlet airflow Fan motor phase
Outside airflow

Actual/Test Data:
Unit serial number Fan motor service factor
Supply airflow Fan motor operating voltages
Return airflow Fan motor operating amperages
Outside airflow Corrected Nameplate Amps
Fan motor manufacturer Actual BHP
Fan motor HP (kW) Fan rpm
Fan motor rpm Total SP and External SP
Fan motor frame Units static pressure of all components
Fan motor nameplate phase Any final setpoints or settings
Fan motor rated voltage Fan motor operating Hz/Speed
Fan motor rated amperage

5.3.3 Filter Data

Design/Submittal Data:
MERV Rating (if available) (Design data is not required, and often not
available)

Actual/Test Data:
Location/Service (Pre, Final, etc.) Quantity
MERV Rating (if available) Size(s)

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

5.3.4 Fan Test Data (Belt Drive)

Design/Submittal Data:
Unit designation Total SP and External SP
Type of service Fan rpm
Manufacturer Fan motor HP (kW)
Model number Fan motor rpm
Total design airflow Fan motor voltage
Total outlet airflow Fan motor phase

Actual/Test Data:
Unit serial number Fan motor operating voltages
Total airflow Fan motor operating amperages
Suction SP Corrected Nameplate Amps
Discharge SP Actual BHP
Fan motor manufacturer Motor sheave OD/bore/Operating PD
Fan motor HP (kW) Fan sheave OD/bore
Fan motor rpm Sheave centerline distance
Fan motor frame Number belts/size
Fan motor nameplate phase Fan rpm
Fan motor rated voltage Any final setpoints or settings
Fan motor rated amperage Fan motor operating Hz/Speed
Fan motor service factor

5.3.5 Fan Test Data (Direct Drive)

Design/Submittal Data:
(((Required for fans 1/6 hp (120 Watts) and greater)
Unit designation Total SP and External SP
Type of service Fan rpm speed
Manufacturer Fan motor HP (kW)
Model number Fan motor voltage
Total design airflow Fan motor phase
Total outlet airflow

Actual/Test Data:
Unit serial number Fan motor rated amperage
Total airflow Fan motor service factor
Suction SP Fan motor operating voltages
Discharge SP Fan motor operating amperages
Fan motor manufacturer Corrected Nameplate Amps
Fan motor HP (kW) Actual BHP
Fan motor rpm Fan operating rpm or speed settings
Fan motor frame Any final setpoints or settings
Fan motor nameplate phase Fan motor operating Hz
Fan motor rated voltage

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

5.3.6 Fan Test Data (Direct Drive)

Design/Submittal Data:
(((Required for fans less than 1/6 hp (120 Watts or less)) typically an embedded motor
Unit designation Model number
Type of service Total design airflow
Manufacturer

Actual/Test Data:
Total airflow

5.3.7 Air Devices (Inlets & Outlets)

Design/Submittal Data:
System designation Design airflow
Outlet number System total design airflow
Area served Air Device type (Diffuser/Register/Slot/etc.)
Neck or Overall Size

Actual/Test Data:
Final velocity (when Ak ≠ 1.0) Instrument used for testing
Ak factor (when Ak ≠ 1.0) (If a flow hood is used, velocity and Ak
Final airflow data are not required)

5.3.8 Variable Air Volume Terminal (Pressure Dependent)

Design/Submittal Data:
VAV terminal designation Design maximum airflow
Terminal type Design minimum airflow
Inlet size Heating design airflows (if applicable)

Actual/Test Data:
Final maximum airflow Final heating airflows (if applicable)
Final minimum airflow Instrument used for testing

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

5.3.9 Variable Air Volume Terminals (Pressure Independent)

Design/Submittal Data:
VAV terminal designation Design maximum airflow
Terminal type Design minimum airflow
Inlet size Heating design airflows (if applicable)

Actual/Test Data:
Final maximum airflow DDC flow correction/calibration factor(s)
Final minimum airflow (where available)
Final heating airflows (if applicable) DDC max/min flows (where available)
Instrument used for testing

5.3.10 Fan Powered Terminal (Pressure Dependent)

Design/Submittal Data:
VAV terminal designation Terminal type
Primary maximum airflow Inlet size
Primary minimum airflow Final airflow (Normal)
Heating design airflows (if applicable) Final airflow (Alternate, when specified)

Actual/Test Data:
Final maximum airflow Final airflow (Normal)
Final minimum airflow Final airflow (Alternate, when specified)
Final primary heating airflows (if Instrument used for testing
applicable) Fan speed (High, Medium, Low Variable,
Setting, etc.)

5.3.11 Fan Powered Terminal (Pressure Independent)

Design/Submittal Data:
VAV terminal designation Terminal type
Primary maximum airflow Inlet size
Primary minimum airflow Final airflow (Normal)
Heating design airflows (if applicable) Final airflow (Alternate, when specified)

Actual/Test Data:
Final maximum airflow Fan speed (Hi, Med, Low, Variable, etc.)
Final minimum cooling airflow Instrument used for testing
Final primary heating airflows (if DDC flow correction/calibration factor(s)
applicable) (where available)
Fan airflow (Alternate, when specified) DDC max/min flows (where available)

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

5.3.12 Duct Traverse Test Data

Design/Submittal Data:
System designation Design airflow
Traverse designation Duct size, I.D. (width, height, diameter)
Location Duct area

Actual/Test Data:
Average velocity in duct Static pressure at traverse location
Duct airflow Instrumentation used to measure flow
Altitude/Temperature if not at Velocity Profile
Standard
Conditions (STP)

5.3.13 Hydronic Pump Test Data

Design/Submittal Data:
Unit designation Design head
Type of service Design Total Connected Load
Manufacturer Design Motor HP (kW)
Model number/size Design Pump/Motor RPM
Design flow Design Impeller size

Actual/Test Data:
Pump serial number Pump Off Pressure (Standing Pressure)
Motor manufacturer No flow suction pressure
Motor HP (kW) No flow discharge pressure
Pump/Motor rated rpm No flow head
Motor Frame Impeller diameter
Motor nameplate phase Final suction pressure
Motor rated voltage Final discharge pressure
Motor rated amperage Total dynamic head
Motor service factor Final flow
Motor operating voltages Pump/Motor operating rpm
Motor operating amperages Motor operating Hz/Speed Setting
Connected Nameplate Amps Any final setpoints or settings
Actual BHP

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

5.3.14 Hydronic Pump Test Data (Integrated Variable Speed Pump)

Design/Submittal Data:
Unit designation Design head
Type of service Design Total Connected Load
Manufacturer Design Motor HP (kW)
Model number/size Design Pump/Motor RPM
Design flow Design Impeller size

Actual/Test Data:
Pump serial number *Motor operating Hz/Speed Setting
Motor manufacturer *Actual BHP
Motor HP (kW) *Motor operating voltage
Pump/Motor rated rpm *Motor operating amperages
Motor nameplate phase *Pump/Motor operating rpm
Motor rated voltage *If available through brain/VFD. Many
Motor rated amperage items may not be available depending on
Pump Off Pressure (Standing Pressure) the manufacturer, size, or type.
Final flow

5.3.15 Hydronic Balancing Valve Test Data (Fixed or Adjustable Orifice)

Design/Submittal Data:
Unit designation Model number
Service Size
Manufacturer Flow

Actual/Test Data:
Dial setting (if applicable) Calculated Flow
Differential Pressure (∆P)

5.3.16 Hydronic Balancing Valve Test Data (Self-Adjusting/Auto-Flow)

Design/Submittal Data:
Unit designation Model number
Service Size
Manufacturer Operating Pressure Range
Indicated Flow from Valve Tag Flow

Actual/Test Data:
*Differential Pressure (∆P) Indicated Flow from Valve Tag when DP is
*Many PICVs do not have measuring within specified range
ports available

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

5.3.17 Ultrasonic Flow Measurement Test Data (When Applicable)

Design/Submittal Data:
System served Flow
Measurement location

Actual/Test Data:
Pipe Size Spacing Distance
Pipe Material Flow
Transducer Size/Type Wall Thickness
configuration

5.3.18 Chiller Test Data (Water Cooled)

Design/Submittal Data:
(Items not included below are outside the scope of TAB responsibilities)
Unit designation Evaporator ∆P
Manufacturer Condenser water flow
Model number Condenser water ∆P
Evaporator water flow

Actual/Test Data:
Unit serial number Condenser water flow
Evaporator water flow Condenser water ∆P
Evaporator water ∆P

5.3.19 Chiller Test Data (Air Cooled)

Design/Submittal Data:
(Items not included below are outside the scope of TAB responsibilities)
Unit designation Evaporator water flow
Manufacturer Evaporator ∆P
Model number

Actual/Test Data:
Unit serial number Evaporator water ∆P
Evaporator water flow

5.3.20 Compressor/ Condenser Test Data

The testing of these components are outside the scope of TAB services.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

5.3.21 Cooling Tower Test Data

Design/Submittal Data:
Unit designation Water Flow
Manufacturer Model number

Actual/Test Data:
Unit serial number Water flow

5.3.22 Hot Water Boiler Test Data

The testing of burner sections, burner/fuel controls, safety controls, and combustion gases are
outside the scope of TAB services.

Design/Submittal Data:
Unit designation Water Flow
Manufacturer Water ∆P
Model number

Actual/Test Data:
Unit serial number Water flow ∆P
Water flow

5.3.23 Heat Exchanger Test Data (Water to Water)

Design/Submittal Data:
Unit designation Primary Water Flow
Location Primary Water ∆P
Service Secondary water flow
Manufacturer Secondary water ∆P
Model number

Actual/Test Data:
Unit serial number Secondary water flow
Primary Water flow Secondary water ∆P
Primary Water ∆P

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

5.3.24 Heat Exchanger Test Data (Steam to Water)

Design/Submittal Data:
Unit designation Model number
Location Water flow
Service Water ∆P
Manufacturer

Actual/Test Data:
Unit serial number Water ∆P
Water flow

5.325 Energy Recovery Devices Test Data (Air to Air)

Design/Submittal Data:
Unit designation Primary airflow
Location Primary air ∆P
Service Secondary airflow
Manufacturer Secondary air ∆P
Model number

Actual/Test Data:
Unit serial number Secondary airflow
Primary airflow Secondary air ∆P
Primary air ∆P

5.3.26 Duct Air Leakage Test Data (Optional)

Design/Submittal Data:
System designation Pressure class
Service Seal class
Location/Section Surface area (system or section)
Leakage class Allowable leakage-factor
Design static pressure

Actual/Test Data:
Test static pressure Test witnesses
Test section air leakage Test section surface area
Orifice Size *If using alternative test apparatus,
Orifice Pressure Drop provide all necessary data to replicate
PASS/FAIL results testing

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

PART 2

PROCEDURES
Section 6. TESTING, ADJUSTING & BALANCING MEASUREMENTS

6.1 INTRODUCTION

This section prescribes procedures for basic testing, adjusting and balancing (TAB) measurements
that are accurate and repeatable. TAB measurements will be performed on air, water and fluids of
various densities to determine properties, conditions and flow rates of the fluids.

The ability to take accurate and repeatable measurements depends on technician skill and
measurement locations. The NEBB CF is responsible to determine the appropriate location for all air
and hydronic test measurements at terminals, equipment, ducts and piping.

For air system, it is necessary for the CF to drill test holes for the purpose of taking measurements
in ducts or equipment. These test holes are appropriately sized and they are sealed with
appropriate industry standard plugs when measurements are completed. The NEBB CF will verify
requirements and use caution before drilling penetrations into fiberglass, PVC or stainless steel
ducts, as these systems often contain hazardous materials. It is advisable that the CF assist the
installing contractor as to where penetrations are to be located.

For hydronic systems, test ports or pipe taps are necessary for pressure and temperature
measurements. It is advisable that the CF assist the installing contractors as to where test ports are
to be located. It is the responsibility of the installing contractors to furnish and install the test ports.

6.2 AIR PRESSURE PROCEDURES

The following procedures describe the methods to be utilized when making pressure
measurements. While the procedures outlined here are prescriptive, instrumentation use is always
in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendation. All instrumentation used for pressure
measurements shall conform to the requirements of Section 4 of this Standard.

6.2.1 Instruments

The following instrument is typically utilized to perform pressure measurements

 Micromanometer

Air pressure measurements for HVAC TAB procedures are accomplished with a micromanometer,
connecting tubing and an appropriate sensing tip. This micromanometer may be multi-function
instrument with micromanometer capabilities. In all cases, the measurement of air pressure in an
HVAC system is the basic measurement from which the most important system performance data is
derived.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

6.2.2 General Measurement Techniques

Pressure measurements in air systems involve four different pressures: static pressure, differential
pressure, velocity pressure, and total pressure. Static pressure and differential pressure are the
predominant measurements used in air TAB work.

Field measurement of static pressures is not a definitive measurement; rather, it is simply an

analysis tool for fan performance. Accurate assessments of fan performance in the installed
condition require rotations per minute (rpm), airflow, power data, and sometimes an evaluation of
System Effect. The impact of System Effect is to be taken into account during the project design
phase by the design professional.

SP measurements are properly performed with a calibrated micromanometer and a Pitot tube or a
static probe. Simply inserting a tube end into an air stream without a static tip or Pitot tube probe
may result in significant measurement errors.

6.3 AIR VELOCITY

The following procedures describe the methods to be used when making air velocity
measurements. While the procedures outlined here are prescriptive, instrumentation use will
always be in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendation. All instrumentation used for air
velocity measurements shall conform to the requirements of Section 4 of this Standard.

6.3.1 Instruments

The following instruments are typically utilized to perform air velocity measurements:
 Electronic-Digital Micromanometer
 Rotating Vance anemometer
 Thermal Anemometer (Hot Wire)

6.3.2 General Measurement Techniques

Air velocity measurements typically are performed ins ducts; at the face of a Grille, Register or
Diffuser (GRD), at filter banks or at other designated points. Correction factors must be obtained
from the manufacturer’s submittal information in order to correctly quantify from the velocity
measurement taken. These measurements are used to verify airflow performance of a particular
piece of equipment or ducts under certain conditions.

It is important to note that field measurement of air velocity/total airflow is only a tool in analyzing
fan performance. Accurate assessments of fan performance in the installed condition require rpm,
static pressure, power data, and an evaluation of System Effect. See the current edition of the
following publications when attempting to evaluate system performance from field measurements.
AMCA 201 Fans and Systems, AMCA 203 Field Performance Measurements of Fan Systems, and
AMCA 210 Laboratory Method of Testing for Aerodynamic Performance Rating. The impact of
System Effect should be taken into account during the design phase, but can also occur because of
installation problems.

Duct air velocity measurements typically are performed to determine air volume in a duct by Pitot
tube or Airfoil traverses. The Ptiot tube/Airfoil traverse, properly conducted, is the basis for all
other airflow measurements performed by a CF.
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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

Other instruments used for air velocity measurements are rotating vane anemometers, thermal
anemometers, and velocity grids in conjunction with a micromanometer, etc. these devices are
typically used for measurements where flow hoods are not appropriate, or where the air velocities
are too low for accurate measurement by a duct traverse. In all cases the instrument
manufacturer’s application recommendations are to be followed. For example, most kitchen hood
manufacturers have specific testing criteria to be followed when testing their products in the
installed condition.

6.3.3 Specific Measurement Techniques

The Pitot tube or Airfoil traverse in a duct is performed as follows:

a. Measure the external dimensions of the duct to be traversed
b. Determine if the duct is internally lined. This may require the drilling of an exploratory hole to
allow the thickness of the liner to be measured. Subtract the thickness of the liner to calculate
the free area of the duct.
c. Mark the Pitot tube or Airfoil at the correct points, and connect the tubing to the probe and
micrmanometer. Verify the “zero” of the instrument as required prior to inserting the probe
into the duct.
d. Insert the probe into the duct. The tip of the Pitot tube or Airfoil shall point into the air
stream, and be parallel with the direction of airflow.
e. Perform and record a measurement of air velocity at each required point. If the selected
instrument does not report velocity, each pressure measurement will require conversion to
velocity before calculating the average velocity. Note: Do not average velocity pressures.
Once the average duct velocity is determined, multiply the average velocity by free are: (a)
calculated in (b) above. The result is the total airflow volume.
f. Rectangular ducts are traversed by the Equal Area or Log Tchebycheff (Log-T) Method. Use
the resultant average velocity to calculate the airflow volume in accordance with (e) above
 Equal Area Method Readings to be taken in the center of equal areas.
- <12”(either axis) requires a minimum of two readings
- 12”or greater (Minimum of 3 readings each axis) requires a maximum of 6”spacing
between readings. (Example: a10X30 duct would have two readings in the 10”axis
and 5 readings in the 30”axis for a total of 10 readings). When the total number of
data points exceeds 64, the spacing may be increased above 6”.
 Lo Tchebycheff (Log-T) method – See the latest edition of the NEBB TAB Manual for
Technicians for measuring points layout.
g. Round ducts are traversed by the Equal Area method for sizes 6”and larger. Only two holes
are required to be drilled in the duct at right angles to each other. Use the resultant average
velocity to calculate the airflow volume in accordance with (e) above.
 Equal Area Method. Readings to be taken in the center of rings of equal area.
- Six-point traverse (each axis) for duct diameters of 6’to 9”
- Eight-point traverse (each axis) for 10”to 12”diameter
- Ten-point traverse (each axis) for all diameters above 12”
 Round ducts 5”or less may be measured using 90% of a single centreline velocity
reading in lieu of the 6 point method
h. Flat oval ducts may be traversed as follows:
 Traverse the center portion of the flat oval as though it was a rectangular duct using
the method described in 6.3.3f. use the average velocity and the calculated area to
determine air volume in the rectangular portion.
 Traverse the two end sections as though it was a round duct and traverse that area
using the method described in 6.3.3g (horizontal plane only). Use the average velocity
and the calculated area to determine air volume in the round portion.
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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

Note: Do not combine all velocity readings. Calculate volumes separately, then total them.

Example: 12X48 flat oval: center portion would be 12X36 with holes spaced 6”apart and 3 readings
per hole. The ends would be equivalent to a 12”round with 8 reading on each end in the horizontal
plane. Total the air volume of the rectangular and the round area to establish total air flow for the
duct.
i. The accuracy of a traverse is determined by the availability of a suitable location to perform
the traverse. Suitability of the location is determined by the quality of the data measured.
[Reference: Calculate 10% of the maximum reading taken. The traverse data is acceptable if
75% of the velocity pressure readings are greater than this value. It is important to note that
the acceptability of the traverse plane is determined solely by the quality of the data, and not
necessarily by the location of the traverse plane.]
The location of a useful duct traverse is not necessarily dictated by the number of diameters
of straight duct, but by the quality of the readings at any given location likely to produce a
useful result as described in the previous paragraph. The location of a traverse point should
be as far away from the fan inlet or outlet as possible to avoid undue turbulence and should
not be taken in a section of duct that is transitioning in size. Judgement of the quality of a
traverse should be based on the result of the traverse, not by the appearance of the duct
section only.

6.3.4 Face Velocity Measurements

The use of anemometers or velocity grids to measure air velocities at the face of a grille, register or
diffuser, etc. is quite common, but generally not accurate when determining airflow without the
incorporation of a correction factor. There are many variables in the measurement of airflow on the
field that will affect the accuracy of any reading. The most effective method to compensate for the
inherent uncertainty of these face velocity measurements is to develop a field correction factor
when manufacturer’s correction factors are not available. This is usually accomplished by
performing a traverse of the duct leading to a typical terminal device and calculating the duct
airflow. This process assumes that there is negligible leakage between the traverse location and the
terminal device. The air velocity reading at the face of the equipment being tested is then
multiplied by a factor to generate an airflow value equal to the traverse. This factor can then be
applied to identical situations to determine airflow at other points. (Note: It is important to
remember that the correction for any piece of equipment is specific to the instrument, and will vary
with air velocity at the measurement point, deflection of vanes, etc.) If possible, it is best to
construct a correction factor curve specific to each piece of equipment for several difference
velocities.
DI SIGURO
Similarly, the use of anemometers or velocity grids to measure air velocities at coils and filters is
quite common, but may not be accurate when determining airflow without the incorporation of a
correction factor. As stated above, there are many variables in the measurement of airflow in the
field that will affect the accuracy of any reading. Follow the procedures as identified in the above
paragraph.

In general, the above techniques do not require corrections for air density below 2,000 feet
elevation or normal HVAC temperatures. Corrections can be calculated when necessary by use of
the following equations:
Equation 6-1

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

It is necessary to know the density of the air in order to use the above equations. Air density can be
calculated as follows:

Equation 6-2

6.4 TEMEPERATURE MEASUREMENT PROCEDURES

The following procedures describe the methods to be utilized when making temperature
measurements. While the procedures outlined here are prescriptive, instrumentation use will
always be in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendation. All instrumentation used for
temperature measurements shall conform to the requirements of Section 4 of this Standard.

6.4.1 Instruments

The following instruments are typically utilized to perform temperature measurements:

 Digital Thermometer
 Electric resistance thermometers including Thermistor Digital Psychrometer
 Digital Thermo-hygrometer

6.4.2 Factors Affecting Air Temperature Measurements

It should be noted that even with a good test of equipment function and performance, the energy
balance results can have errors resulting from:
a. Radiant heat effects on temperature measuring instruments.
b. Effects thermal storage of conduits and enclosures; i.e. ducts, pipe, etc.
c. Lack of a uniform temperature/velocity profile.
d. Use of standardized constants in equations representing average fluid values for density,
specific heating value, etc.
e. Instrumentation accuracy, precision and sensitivity.

There are three issues of prime importance when taking temperature measurements. Each of these
must be well understood prior to taking measurements:

1. Adequate mixing: Adequate mixing is essential to obtaining useful measurements. In air

systems, a uniform temperature profile and its associated velocity profile, sometimes can be
impossible to achieve. For hydronic systems, thorough mixing normally can be attained due to
the elbows immediately adjacent to the heat transfer equipment.

2. Steady state: Most heat transfer processes in TAB work never achieve thermodynamic
equilibrium or steady-state conditions. When steady state conditions do not exist, a sufficient
number of temperature readings must be taken during a given time rate and the results
integrated over that time.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

3. Same instrumentation: The final issue deals with the use of a single instrument. Differential
temperature measurements are taken with the same instrument. The use of a single
instrument negates errors in accuracy and precision.

6.4.3 Air Temperature Measurements

NEBB makes a distinction between two types of air temperature measurements in the field. Please
refer to Appendix D for more information on these two types of measurements.

6.5 FLOW MEASURING HOOD PROCEDURES

The following procedures describe the methods to be utilized when making air volume
measurements with a flow measuring hood. While the procedures outlined here are prescriptive,
instrumentation use will always be in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendation. All
instrumentation used for direct reading hood measurements shall conform to the requirements of
Section 4 of this Standard.

6.5.1 Instruments

The following instruments are typically utilized to perform airflow measurements:

 Flow measuring hood, digital and analog

6.5.1.1 General Measurement Techniques

The flow measuring hood is a direct reading flow measurement device. It is designed with a fabric
“sock” that covers the terminal air outlet device being measured. The conical or pyramid shaped
hood collects all of the air entering or leaving an air outlet and guides the airflow over the flow
measuring instrumentation. Hoods generally are constructed so that the outlet tapers down to the
metering section. A velocity measuring grid and calibrated differential pressure manometer in the
hood will display the airflow in cfm (l/s) directly. However, it may be necessary to compare selected
flow hood measurement with Pitot tube traverse of ducts connected to a GRD to develop
correction factors specific to a system. This is up to the judgement of the CP.

*Even though an analog hood is not part of the NEBB TAB Required Instrumentation List, this type of
instrument can be useful when troubleshooting unstable and variant flow conditions. The visual
aspect of monitoring and demonstrating unstable flow conditions can be extremely helpful.

6.5.1.2 Specific Measurement Techniques

The flow measuring hood should be modified for the particular job. The large end of the cone
should be sized to fit over the complete diffuser and should have a gasket around the perimeter to
prevent air leakage. Some digital instruments have memory, averaging, and printing capabilities.
Flow measuring hoods are not to be used where the velocities of the terminal devices are excessive
or severely stratified.

It is important to note that inlet and outlet conditions of the measure GRD may affect the reading
displayed by the flow measuring hood. Repeated readings on the same GRD are to be performed in
the same manner and orientation.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

There are various sizes and configurations of capture hoods available, thus it’s important that flow-
measuring hoods only be used in manufacturer’s recommended configurations.

The resistance to flow applied to the GRD when performing a flow measurement may have a
significant effect on the actual value of the flow. The result is that while a flow-measuring hood
accurately measures the GRD air volume when applied to the GRD, the flow increases, sometimes
substantially, when the flow measuring hood is removed from the GRD. Analog flow measuring
hoods are commonly supplied with correction curves to be used for this effect. Digital flow
measuring hoods may feature devices to compute the correction with each reading, or use curves.
It is responsibility of the Certified Firm to account for this phenomenon in all cases. For
exhaust/return applications, follow the manufacturer’s recommended procedures.

When equipment manufacturer IOMs have specified startup and airflow measurements other than
flow hood tabulation, the flow hood is used for proportioning only. Ensure the report summary
identifies this, and all testing procedures utilized.

6.6 ROTATIONAL SPEED MESAUREMENT PROCEDURES

The following procedures describe the methods to be used when making rotational speed
measurements. While the procedures outlined here are prescriptive, instrumentation use is always
to be in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendation. All instrumentation used for
rotational speed measurements shall confirm to the requirements of Section 4 of this Standard.

6.6.1 Instruments

These instruments are typically used to perform rotations per minute (rpm) measurements:
 Digital Contact Tachometers
 Optical (Photo) Tachometers
 Stroboscopes

6.6.2 Safety Considerations

It is extremely important to understand that rotating machinery presents a significant safety

hazard. Loose clothing, long hair and rings, or other body jewelry present a potential snagging
hazard. Technicians performing these measurements must exercise appropriate safety precautions
when collecting data.

Additionally, caution should always be used when opening operating units, as pressures exerted at
access doors could cause injury.

6.6.3 General Measurement Techniques

The purpose of most rpm measurements in TAB work is to determine the rotational speed of a
motor, fan or pump. The results are commonly expressed as rpm. This information is used to verify
proper operational speed of the tested equipment.

6.6.4 Specific Measurement Techniques

Digital contact tachometer is applied to the rotating shaft and will display the rpm reading almost
immediately upon contact with the rotating shaft. The display is either LCD or LED.
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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

Optical (Photo) tachometers usually require the equipment to be stopped so that a special piece of
reflective tape, or paint, can be applied to the shaft. When the equipment is restarted the
instrument is aimed at the reflective marker until the speed is calculated and displayed. This
instrument typically uses a photocell to court the reflected light pulses from the reflective paint or
tape as the shaft rotates.

The stroboscope is an electronic tachometer that uses a flashing light of known and variable
frequency. The frequency of the flashing light is electronically controlled and is adjustable. When
the frequency of the flashing light is adjusted equal to the frequency of the rotating machine, the
rotating components of the machine will appear to be stopped. It is important to have an estimate
of equipment speed so that the stroboscope can be adjusted close to the expected rpm before the
measurement is performed. The technician should be careful to determine the actual rpm, not a
harmonic multiple of the actual rpm.

6.7 HYDRONIC PRESSURE PROCEDURES

6.7.1 Hydronic Pressure Measurements

The following procedures describe the methods to be utilized when performing hydronic pressure
measurements. While the procedures outlined here are prescriptive, instrumentation use will
always be in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendation. All instrumentation used for
hydronic pressure measurements conform to the requirements of the NEBB TAB Required
Instrumentation List for function, range, accuracy, resolution and calibration intervals.

6.7.2 Instruments

These instruments are typically used to perform hydronic pressure measurements:

 Electronic-Digital Hydronic Manometer
 Electronic-Digital Differential Pressure Gauge

-Please note that the NEBB TAB Required Instrumentation List allows the use of the same
instrument for multiple functions/readings as long as it meets the appropriated range, accuracy and
resolution.

6.7.3 General Measurement Techniques

Pressure measurements in hydronic systems involve four different pressures: static pressure,
differential pressure, velocity pressure, and total pressure. Static pressure and differential pressure
are the predominant measurement used in hydronic TAB work.

6.7.4 Specific Measurement Techniques

The following applies to all hydronic systems:

a. The system and instruments shall be free of air and at proper pressures prior to balancing.
b. Verify the range of the instrument to be used is appropriate for the system being tested and
the type of measurements being taken.
c. Verify the system pressures and temperatures do not exceed instrument rating.
d. Verify the instrument is approved for use on the system to be tested. For example, is the
instrument approved for use on systems that convey potable water or other fluids for human
or animal consumption?
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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

e. Correct readings as required, if measurement points are at different elevations, if the

instrument hoses are at different elevations, or the pressure gauges are at different
elevations.

6.8 HYDRONIC FLOW PROCEDURES

6.8.1 Hydronic Flow Measurements

The following procedures describe the methods to be utilized when performing hydronic flow
measurements. While the procedures outlined here are prescriptive, instrumentation use will
always be in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendation. All instrumentation used for
hydronic flow measurements conform to the requirements of the NEBB TAB Required
Instrumentation List for function, range, accuracy, resolution and calibration intervals.

6.8.2 Instruments

These instruments are typically used to perform hydronic flow measurements:

 Differential Pressure Meter
 Ultrasonic Flow Measuring Device

6.8.3 General Measurement Techniques

Pressure differential actual is compared to pressure differential design to calculate water flow rate.

Flow measurements in hydronic systems sometimes involve the use of externally installed (non-
invasive) flow meter equipment. Ultrasonic devices use sound waves and transit time technique to
calculate direct flow readings.

6.8.4 Specific Measurement Techniques

The following applies to all hydronic systems:

a. The system shall be free of air and the instrument purged of air before use.
b. In Ultrasonic use, verify the appropriate transducers for the pipe size and location. Ensure the
instrument is appropriate for the system being tested and the type of measurements being
taken. Ensure the proper gel on the transducers is used at all times. Ensure pipes are clean
and free of insulation debris. Understand that erroneous readings may occur when measuring
glycol solutions due to air entertainment in the solution.
c. Verify the instrument is appropriate for use on the system to be tested,

6.9 ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENT PROCEDURES

The following procedures describe the methods and safety precautions to be used when
performing basic electrical measurements. While the procedures outlined here are prescriptive,
instrumentation use will be in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendation. All
instrumentation used for electrical measurements conform to the requirements of the NEBB TAB
Required Instrumentation List for function, range, accuracy, resolution and calibration intervals.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

Reading and reporting electrical data from data displays at Variable Frequency Drives (VFD) serving
equipment being tested is an acceptable procedure however, when utilized, the source will be
noted on the report.

6.9.1 Instruments

The primary electrical data needed for TAB work is voltage and amperage. Various manufacturers
provide meters to accomplish these functions. The most common instruments used for TAB work
are:
 Volt-ammeter
 Multimeter
 True RMS meter

6.9.2 Safety

Extreme care must be exercised when using electrical test instruments.

In some cases, the electrician, site operations or maintenance staff must take the electrical readings
for the NEBB CF. in addition to knowing the local and site specific requirements for electrical safety,
any personnel taking and recording electrical data should be aware of and wear the appropriate
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). All instrumentation used for electrical measurements shall
conform to the requirements of Section 4 of this Standard.

Carelessness or improper use of the test instrument can cause serious damage to the equipment,
as well as injury or death. The precautions listed below are a partial list of recommended minimum
safety practices:
a. Inspect meter before use.
b. Never assume a circuit is de-energized without testing it. Verify voltage meter operation on a
known voltage source before using to determine if a circuit is de-energized.
c. Before working on or near de-energized equipment ensure proper lock out and tagging is in
place.
d. Ensure meter leads come in contact only with terminals or other contacts intended.
e. Take initial voltage or amperage measurements with the meter set at its highest range. If
necessary, adjust meter range lower until the reading is at mid-range.
f. Do not pry or pull wires into place for amperage measurements while power energized.
g. Clamp meter jaws around the phase wire to be tested after the equipment is energized. (in
rush current may cause meter damage)

6.9.3 General Measurement Techniques

Many types of electrical measurements can be required to accomplish TAB work. However, the
primary purposes of TAB electrical measurement are for electrical system safety, fan and pump
motor performance and protection of equipment. Equipment must be tested to ensure it is de-
energized and safe to work on or near.

NEBB procedures require fan motors and pumps to be left operating within the manufacturers
rated tolerances, as well as at or below full-load amperage ratings.

Voltage measurements are taken by connecting voltage test leads to the volt-ammeter and
touching the electrical contacts with test lead probes,

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

Amperage measurements are taken by enclosing the energized phase wires inside the jaws of the
clamp probe of the meter.

6.9.4 Specific Measurement Techniques

Adhere to all safety precautions when taking the following readings:

a. Touch the volt-ammeter’s test probes firmly against the terminals or other surfaces of the line
under test. Read the meter making certain to read the correct scale if the meter has more
than one scale.
b. When reading single-phase voltage, the leads are to be touched to the two terminals. The
resulting single reading is the voltage being applied to the motor.
c. When reading three-phase, the leads are to be touched to all three phase terminals, in the
following manner:
 T1 and T2
 T1 and T3
 T2 and T3
d. The three readings in © might differ, but they are to be within acceptable tolerances.
Excessive voltage variance or imbalance “may cause motors to overheat. Additionally, many
solid-state motor controllers and inverters are sensitive to imbalanced voltages. Unacceptable
voltage imbalance is present when the percent imbalance is more than 2% on any leg when
compared to the average of the measured voltage.
e. Voltage imbalance is calculated using this equation:

Equation 6-3

Where:
Vi = Voltage imbalance
Vd = Maximum voltage deviation from average
Va = Average voltage of three legs

f. To measure current flow, enclose the phase wire inside the ammeter jaw clamp. The wire is to
be positioned in the center of jaw clamp for the most accurate reading. Read the meter
making certain to read the correct scale if the meter has more than one scale. For single-
phase motors, one measurement is required on either leg feeding the motor. For three phase-
motors, each leg needs to be measured.
g. It is important to be aware of other loads that may be served by the phase wires being
measured. It is common practice to connect auxiliary loads, such as control transformers or
crankcase heaters to one leg of a three phase system. Current imbalances exceeding 10%
from any one phase to the average value, calculated similarly to the voltage imbalance
procedure, may indicate problems with the motor or power supply.
h. When measuring low currents, it may be necessary to loop the phase wire around the jaw
clamp. This will amplify the reading for greater accuracy. However, the meter reading will be
proportionally higher than the actual current per each additional loop. Two loops equals twice
the actual amperage, three loops equals three times the actual amperage, etc.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

i. Actual brake horsepower (kW) is calculated using these equations:

Equation 6-4

Single Phase Circuit:

Equation 6-5

Three Phase Circuit:

Where:
bhp = Brake Horse Power
kW = Power (kilowatts)
I = Amps
E = Volts
Pf = Power Factor
eff = Efficiency
1.73 = RMS Constant (3 phase motor)

j. In the preceding equations the power factor and efficiency values must be used to obtain the
actual motor brake horsepower (kW). These values are typically difficult to obtain and a
reasonable estimate may be used. The normal range for both power factor (pf) and efficiency
(eff) is between 80 and 90%. Therefore, 80% may be used for one valued and 90% for the
other to obtain a reasonable estimate of brake horsepower (kW).
k. Alternative Brake Horsepower calculations are made using these equations to obtain a
reasonable approximation of brake horsepower (bhp):

Equation 6-6

*Motor Nameplate ratings

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

Equation 6-7

*1HP = 0.746 kW

Where:
bhp = Brake Horse Power
MO amps = Motor operating amps
NL amps = No load amps
FL amps = Full load amps
HP (kW) = Motor nameplate horsepower (kW)

6.9.5 Variable Frequency Drives

Modified electrical measurement procedures are required when a variable frequency drive (VFD) is
used. The most accurate method is to use the voltage and amperage provided on the VFD display
screen. (Note: Regardless of whether the motor is single or three-phase, most VFD display screens
only provide one voltage and amperage reading. If readings are obtained from the VFD Display, a
note must accompany reading to state such.) If more than one motor is connected to the VFD,
additional readings may need to be taken or special care taken in calculating brake horsepower,
based on the displayed amperage. Technician should be aware of how the VFD is wired and ensure
that display amperage is accurate for each individual motor driven. However, not all VFDs are
equipped with display screens. When voltage and amperage readings cannot be taken from the
VFD display screen, a true RMS meter is required. Consult drive manufacturer for best reading
methods and locations.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

Section 7. PRELIMINARY TESTING, ADJUSTING & BALANCING

7.1 INTRODUCTION

This section describes preliminary procedures necessary for the testing, adjusting and balancing
(TAB) of environmental systems. The procedures presented in this manual are intended to address
a variety of system types and techniques used for testing and measurement. Final responsibility lies
with the engineer of record to determine the actual scope of TAB work for each project. (See
Section 3 about responsibilities)

7.2 PLANNING

The entire TAB process should be thoroughly organized and planned. The process may include, but
is not limited to assigning to the NEBB TAB Certified Professional the following project
responsibilities establishing the schedule, work duration, phasing, crew, size, crew skills,
instrument/equipment requirements, instrument storage and rental, on-site office requirements,
certification documents, NEBB Quality Assurance Program Certificate, control interface
software/hardware requirements, on-site communications, TAB report from distribution, data
collection, backup, safety requirements and meetings, first aid, coordination meetings, security
clearance, access keys/codes, parking requirements, etc.

7.3 PRELIMINARY TAB PROCEDURES

Preparatory work for a TAB project includes procuring project contract documents, applicable
change orders, approved submittals, and shop drawings as needed Plans, specifications, and
submittals should be reviewed to determine the scope of the project.

The preparation of a TAB agenda may be advisable, or specified by the project documents. This is
also often referred to as a “Pre-Field TAB Engineering Report.” The agenda should list each step
required to posture and balance a specific system or systems. The agenda should include any
special job conditions, TAB procedures, instrumentation needed, and any anticipated problems.
The information in the agenda is a clear definition of the NEBB TAB Certified Firm’s intended scope.
To be effective, the agenda should be submitted early in the project to allow for adequate review
by the architect, engineer, commissioning authority and owner.

The Contract Documents should identify, and the TAB Agenda should clearly delineate which
component setpoints are TAB calibrated, adjusted, or verified versus which are deemed sequence
of operations control points by the EOR. Unless otherwise noted, it should not be assumed that TAB
will verify or validate all points within a project’s sequence of operation scheme.

After review, notify the appropriate project personnel of any clarifications or additional information
required to achieve system balance.

The Appendix A. Sample Pre-TAB Checklist can be utilized by the contracting team providing it is
modified accurately reflect the equipment necessary on the project.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

Section 8. AIR SYSTEM TESTING, ADJUSTING & BALANCING

PROCEDURES
8.1 INTRODUCTION

This section describes procedures for testing, adjusting and balancing (TAB) HVAC system.
Procedures in this section address the majority of systems commonly installed. It is the
responsibility of the NEBB CF or NEBB CP to determine appropriate procedures for systems not
covered on this section.

Please note that unless otherwise specified by the contract documents, there is no TAB work
required for stand-alone systems or components that have no field installed ductwork, or
accessories that would change airflows from that shown in the manufacturer’s published date.
Examples of components that fall into this category would include (but not be limited to):
 Electric Unit Heaters/Baseboard Heaters
 Ductless Mini-Split System
 VRF Cassette style units with no field installed duct
 Destratification fans
 Large ceiling fans
 Electric Cabinet Unit Heaters
 Infrared Space Heater
 Air Curtains

8.2 PRELIOMINARY SYSTEM PROCEDURES

8.2.1 Performance Parameters

Each type of HVAC system is designed to meet a set of performance parameters. This usually
includes maximum heating capacity, maximum cooling capacity and ventilation effectiveness. Prior
to the TAB process, the CF should normally set up a system to its “full load” condition (or maximum
capacity). The full load condition presents the greatest challenge to a system’s capacity meeting its
design airflow requirements. Other operating conditions may be verified by controls response
performance or as by direct TAB verifiable reporting when specifically required by the project
documents.

8.2.2 Limitations

Not all systems are covered in this section, only those most commonly installed. Confer with the
engineer of record to establish the proper setup conditions for specific systems.

8.2.3 Basic Procedures

The following TAB procedures are basic to all types of air systems:

a. Verify that the construction team responsibilities for system installation and startup as
discussed in Section 3 are complete.
b. Ensure any project phasing or partial system turnover will not invalidate reporting.
c. Record unit nameplate data as described in Section 5.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

d. Confirm that all items affecting airflow of a duct system are ready for the TAB work, such as
doors and windows close, ceiling tiles (return air plenums) in place, transfer grilles in place,
etc.
e. Confirm that automatic control devices are complete, properly installed and the control
system has been commissioned by other prior to stating the TAB work.
f. Establish the conditions for design maximum system requirements.
g. Verify that all dampers are open or set, all related systems (supply, return, exhaust, etc.), are
operating, motors are operating at or below full load amperage ratings, and rotation is
correct.
h. Positive and negative pressurization zones ar to be identified at this time.

8.3 ESTABLISHING FAN TOTAL AIRFLOW

8.3.1 Total Airflow Measurement

The most accurate and accepted field test of airflow is a Pitot tube or Airfoil traverse of the duct.
Procedures for conducting a traverse are found in Section 6. In situations in which a traverse(s) is
not available, the system airflow may be determined by alternate methods, such as anemometer or
velocity grid traverses across coils and/or filters, or the summation of air outlet measurements.
These alternative methods are subject to a greater degree or error that duct traverses and are to be
used with caution.

Please note that with the introduction of ECM motors, several manufacturers now require in their
IOM that no adjustments be made to the ECM settings. Therefore, the CF must use instruments like
flow hoods as proportioning tools only. If you are going to use the values obtained from the
equipment manufacturer, this must be stated in the report.

8.3.2 Comparison of Total Airflow

Additionally, if a traverse location is available, a comparison of the total outlet airflow

measurement with the traverse readings of the fan total airflow may assist in quantifying possible
duct leakage. It is important to note that differences between total air outlet volume and traverse
totals may be indicative of duct leakage, measurement errors, or incorrect area factors. Accurate
assessment of duct leakage requires a specific duct leakage test, which may or may not be in the
scope of TAB project specification.

8.3.3 Use of Fan Curves

Fan curves can be used when other required data can be obtained, such as static pressure (SP),
rotations per minute (rpm) and brake horsepower [bhp (W)]. However, technicians and report
reviewers should be aware that System Effect and measurement errors might yield field readings
that are incompatible with fan design system curves.

8.3.4 Fan Speed Adjustment

If the fan volume is not within plus or minus 10% (unless other requirements are specified) of the
design airflow requirement, adjust the drive of the fan to obtain the approximate required airflow.
At the conclusion of all system balancing procedures, measure and record the fan suction static
pressure, fan discharge static pressure, amperage and air volume measurements. Confirm that the
fan motor is not operating in excess of its full load amperage rating. Care must be exercised when
41
Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

increasing fan speeds to avoid exceeding the maximum recommended rpm of the fan and the
motor horsepower (W). (The motor power increases as the cube of the fan speed change.) When
new systems do not perform as designed, new drives and motors may be required. Unless clearly
specified in the contract documents, the responsibility for these items is outside the scope of the
CF.

8.3.5 Common Reference Point

When performing SP readings on fan systems, it is necessary trio take the readings based on a
common static reference point.

8.3.6 Supply, Return, Exhaust Volumes

Using the methods outlined above, determine the volume of air being handled by the supply air
fan, and return air fan if used. If a central exhaust fan system is used, also determine the airflow
being handled by the exhaust fan. If several exhaust fans, such as power roof ventilators are related
to a particular supply air system, it generally is not necessary to measure that airflow of each such
exhaust fan until after the supply air system is balanced.

8.3.7 Outside Air Condition (DOAS or Economizer Mcde)

Verify the system test data with the supply air and return air fans in the 100% outside air (OA) and
exhaust air (EA) mode. Use caution as ambient conditions may adversely affect system operation.

8.4 BASIC AIR SYSTEM BALANCING PROCEDURES

Balancing air systems may be accomplished in various ways. Two methods for balancing supply,
return and exhaust systems are presented. Regardless of the method, the objectives remain the
same and the system will be considered balanced in accordance with this edition of NEBB
Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental System (Procedural
Standard) when the following conditions are satisfied:
a. All measured airflow quantities are within ±10% of the design airflow quantities unless there
are reasons beyond the control of the CF. if the total available air is above or below design
and cannot be decreased or increased, the air distribution system shall be proportionally
balanced to within 10% of the available total. Deficiencies shall be noted in the TAB Report
Summary.
b. There is at least one path with fully open dampers from the fan to an air inlet or outlet.
Additionally, if a system contains branch dampers, there will be at least one wide-open path
downstream of every adjusted branch damper.

8.4.1 Proportional Method (Ration Method)

8.4.1.1 Supply Without Branch Ducts:

(Note: This is also appropriate for exhaust or return duct systems)

a. Verify that all Grille, Register and Diffuser (GRD) dampers are wide open.
b. Ensure the air outlet deflections have been set as specified. This is an installer requirement.
c. Determine total system airflow by the most appropriate method. A duct traverse or multiple
traverses shall be the preferred choice because they are the most accurate.
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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

d. Calculate the percentage of actual airflow to design airflow.

e. Adjust the fan to approximately 110% of design airflow or as necessary.
f. Measure the airflow at all GRD’s.
g. Compute the ratio of measured airflow to design airflow for each GRD.
h. The damper serving the GRD at the lowest percentage of design flow is not adjusted in this
procedure.
i. Using the take-off damper as the first choice and a face damper as the last resort (face
dampers are not recommended for balancing), serving the GRD with next (second) lowest
percentage of design until all three GRD’s are the same percentage of design. These GRD’s are
now in balance.
j. Adjust the damper serving the GRD with the next (third) lowest percentage of design until all
three GRD’s are at the same percentage of design, and in balance.
k. Continue this procedure until all remaining GRD’s have been adjusted to be in balance at
approximately the same percentage of design airflow.
l. If necessary, adjust the fan speed to set all GRD’s at design airflow, ±10%.
m. Re-measure all GRD’s and record final values.
n. Mark all balance dampers in some manner that is permanent, so that adjustment may be
restored if necessary.

8.4.1.2 Supply With Branch Ducts:

a. Follow above steps 8.4.1.1(a) through (f) for the GRD’s on each branch.
b. Compute the ratio of measured branch flow to design branch flow.
c. The damper serving the branch at the lowest percentage of design flow is not adjusted in this
procedure.
d. Adjust the damper serving the branch with the next (second) lowest percentage of design
until both branches are the same percentage of design. These branches are now in balance.
e. Adjust the damper serving the branch with the next (third) lowest percentage of design until
all three branches are at the same percentage of design, and in balance.
f. Continue this procedure until all remaining branches have been adjusted to be in balance at
approximately the same percentage of design airflow.
g. Adjust the fan to approximately 110% of design airflow (if not already done above).
h. Perform the proportioning techniques specified in above steps a) through m) for the diffusers
on each branch.
i. Re-measure all GRD’s and record final airflow values.
j. Mark all dampers, with a permanent technique, so that adjustment may be restored if
necessary.

8.4.2 Stepwise Method

8.4.2.1 Supply Without Branch Ducts:

(Note: This is also appropriate for exhaust or return duct systems)

a. Verify that all GRD dampers are wide open.

b. Set air outlet deflections as specified.
c. Determine total system volume by the most appropriate method. A duct traverse shall be the
preferred method. The sum of several traverses may be required.
d. Calculate the percentage of actual airflow to design airflow.
e. Adjust the fan to approximately 110% of design airflow or as necessary.
f. Measure the airflow at all GRD’s.
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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

g. Starting at the fan, as the GRD’s closest to the fan will typically be the highest, adjust the GRD
volume dampers to a value approximately 10% below design airflow requirements
h. As the adjustment proceeds to the end of the system, the remaining GRD airflow values will
increase.
i. Repeat the adjustment passes through the system until all GRD’s are within ±10% of design
airflow requirements and at least one GRD volume damper is wide open.
j. Adjust the fan to approximately 110% of design airflow or as necessary.
k. Re-measure all diffusers and record final airflow values.
l. Mark all dampers, with a permanent technique, so that adjustment may be restored if
necessary.

8.4.2.2 Supply With Branch Ducts:

a. Follow above steps (a) through (e) for the GRD’s on each branch.
b. Compute the ratio of measured branch flow to design branch flow.
c. Starting at the fan, as the branches closest to the fan will typically be the highest, adjust the
branch volume dampers to a value approximately 10% below design airflow requirements.
d. As the adjustment proceeds to the end of the system, the remaining branch airflow values will
increase.
e. Adjust the fan to approximately 110% of design airflow (if not already done above).
f. Balance the GRD’s on each branch as described in steps (e) through (i) of Section 8.4.2.1.
g. Re-measure all GRD’s and record final values.
h. Mark all dampers with a permanent technique, so that adjustment may be restored if
necessary.

8.5 CONSTANT VOLUME SUPPLY SYSTEMS

8.5.1 Basic Constant Volume Systems

For the purposes of this Procedural Standard, a basic constant volume supply system is defined as
having a single fan and connecting ductwork to the outlets and inlets. The following balancing
procedures are appropriate for basic constant volume systems:

a. Confirm that the correct air filters have been installed. Review the specifications to determine
if a temporary filter blockage is required to simulate partially loaded filters.
b. Barometric dampers are to be checked for free operation, if the dampers are equipped with
adjustable weights, the CF should set them to maintain the specified building static pressure
and document settings and readings. All air systems are to be balanced before adjusting
barometric relief dampers
c. Verify that all manual branch and outlet volume dampers are locked 100% open.
d. Verify correct rotation.
e. Measure the motor operating amperage.
f. Measure motor voltage.
g. Confirm that the voltage and amperage matches the motor rating.
h. Check for unusual noises indicating mechanical malfunction.
i. Measure fan rpm and compare to design rpm.
j. Air handling units (AHU) equipped with a fixed outside air damper is to be set to an
approximate position as a starting point. (Note: Caution should be used if freezing conditions
are expected.)

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

k. The OA damper for air handling units using mechanical cooling, with an economizer cycle, is to
be adjusted to a position estimated to equal the design minimum airflow.
l. The OA damper for units using only ventilation air for cooling is to be positioned 100% open
with RA dampers closed. (Note: Caution should be used if freezing conditions are expected.)
m. Determine the AHU’s design total static pressure (TSP) and/or external static pressure (ESP). if
the rating is for TSP, measure suction and discharge static pressure at the inlet and outlet of
the fan. If the rating is for ESP, measure the suction and discharge static pressure at the return
duct and discharge duct. The suction static pressure measurement point can be immediately
adjacent to the unit. The discharge static pressure is to be taken at a point 3 to 5 duct
diameters downstream of the fan discharge, and upstream of any elbows or turning vanes.
n. If testing with partially loaded filters is specified, measure the pressure drop across the air
filters and adjust a temporary blockage to meet specified requirements.
o. Measure the AHU total air volume. A duct traverse is the most accurate method available. The
sum of several traverses may be required.
p. Adjust fan airflow to meet design requirements, if necessary.
q. Determine the method for adjusting outlets – proportional or stepwise, and balance the inlets
and outlets in accordance with the prescribed procedures.
r. After the supply, return, and exhaust systems are properly balanced, the supply air fan
capacity is to be checked with 100 percent outside air, if this alternative is included in the
system design. Make appropriate damper adjustments if necessary to achieve total design
supply air volume in all modes.
s. At the conclusion of all inlet and outlet balancing, readjust the AHU minimum outside air
ventilation rate, if required.
t. Record final unit data, prepare the report forms, and submit as required (see Section 5).

8.5.2 Complex Constant Volume Systems

For the purpose of this document a complex constant volume supply system is defined as having
multiple fans (supply, return, exhaust) and may have active building static pressure control.

Systems with active building static pressure control require special attention by the CP. Building
pressure can vary if the return/exhaust air fan volume does not respond adequately to changes in
the system operation, such as filter loading. Three common methods used are building static
control (regulates return/relief fan), open-loop control (supply/return air volumes fixed), and
closed-loop control (fan tracking), which will be discussed later in this section.

Balancing procedures for complex systems follow the same procedures as described for basic
systems. The additions of powered return/exhaust fan(s) must be addressed in the setup and
balancing process.

There are many variations of unit fan and damper arrangements supplied by manufacturers, which
the CP must understand before beginning the balancing process. This document does not attempt
to provide specific guidelines for all possible system arrangements. A few of the more common
configurations for complex constant volume systems are described below.

8.5.3 System With Power Exhaust/Relief

This fan is designed to run in the pressure relief mode only when required to relieve building
pressure. For systems with power exhaust, follow the procedures specified previously for a Basic
Constant Volume Supply System (see Section 8.4 and 8.5) with the following modifications:

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

a. After all procedures specified for a basic constant volume supply system are complete, but
before recording final system data, set the system to its maximum OA ventilation rate.
b. Adjust the powered exhaust fan flow rate to achieve the required building static pressure.
c. Measure building static pressure and compare to specified requirements.
d. Complete the final system measurement specified previously for basic systems, including all
components of the tested system.

8.5.4 Systems With Return/Exhaust Fans

Constant volume supply systems with return/exhaust fans are essentially two separate constant
volume systems, operating in series, linked by an arrangement of dampers. Further, the
return/exhaust system may or may not be ducted.

Systems with combination return/exhaust air fans require special attention by the CP Building
pressure will vary substantially if the return/exhaust air fan volume does not respond adequately to
changes in the system operation, such as filter loading. Three common methods used are building
static control (regulates return/relief fan), open-loop control (supply/return air volumes fixed), and
closed-loop control (fan tracking), which will be discussed later in this section. Follow the
procedures specified previously for a basic constant volume supply system (see 8.4 and 8.5) with
the following modifications:

a. Set the return, outside air and exhaust dampers for the normal operating condition, typically
full return with minimum OA.
b. Perform the appropriate procedures described previously on both the supply side and the
return/exhaust side of the system. This includes the inlets and outlets of both system
components.
c. After the systems have been balanced in the normal operating condition, decouple the supply
and exhaust fans so that the two systems operate independently. Set the return damper to
closed, the exhaust damper to 100% open and the outside air damper to 100% open.
d. Adjust the return/exhaust fan to the total design flow.
e. Check and adjust the supply air fan to achieve design air flow.
f. Measure and record the static pressure in the return/exhaust chamber.
g. Return all control dampers to the normal operating mode. Adjust minimum outside air to
design flow and adjust the return air damper so that the return/exhaust chamber pressure is
the same as the 100% exhaust mode documented above.
h. Final measurements: At the conclusion of all inlet and outlet balancing, readjust the AHU
minimum outside air ventilation rate as required.
i. In each condition, verify that the system is operating in compliance with specified
requirements.
j. Measure building static pressure and compare to specified requirements.
k. Record final unit data, prepare the report forms, and submit as required (see Section 5).

8.6 MULTIZONE SYSTEMS

Follow the procedures specified previously for a basic constant volume supply system (see Section
8.4 and 8.5) with the following modifications:

a. Confirm that the coils are sized for airflow equal to the fan design. If the coils are sized for less
airflow than the fan, the bypass damper, if so equipped, will be left open to an amount equal
to the excess fan airflow so that the total airflow will not be restricted.
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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

b. Set the multizone unit dampers for design airflow through the cooling coil.
c. The outside air and return air (OA/RA) dampers should be adjusted prior to balancing. If the
air handling unit (AHU) has a fixed outside air damper it is to be set to the appropriate
position as a starting point. (Caution will be used if ambient conditions present a risk of
damage to the equipment or facility).
d. The OA damper for air handling units using mechanical cooling are to be adjusted to a position
estimated to equal the design minimum airflow.
e. The OA damper is to be positioned 100%open, with RA dampers closed, for units using only
ventilation air for cooling.
f. If the cooling coil is sized for the full fan airflow, put all zones into full cooling by setting each
zone thermostat to its lowest point.
g. Measure the airflow of each zone and total the results. A duct traverse or multiple traverses
shall be the preferred choice as it is the most accurate.
h. Make any required fan speed adjustments to obtain the design total airflow.
i. Adjust each manual zone balancing damper to obtain the proper airflow in each zone. This
type of system cannot be properly balanced without manual zone balancing dampers. If the
dampers are not provided, the CP will notify the appropriate project personnel to have them
installed.
j. Once each zone has the correct airflow, the outlets can be balanced by using the previously
described methods.
k. At the conclusion of all inlet and outlet balancing, re-adjust the AHU minimum outside air
ventilation rate, if required.
l. Record final unit data, prepare the report forms, and submit as required (see Section 5.
Standards for Reports and Forms).

8.7 INDUCTION UNIT SYSTEMS

8.7.1 Operation

Induction unit systems use high or medium pressure fans to supply primary air to the induction
units. Check to see that the induction unit dampers, as well as the system dampers, are wide open
before starting the HVAC unit primary air fan.

Airflow readings at induction units are taken by reading the SP at one of the nozzles, then compare
the reading to the manufacturer’s published data. The design static pressure and airflow will be
shown on the manufacturer’s submittal data for the various size units on the job. This information
is to be verified by performing a duct traverse for each model on the project.

Some systems use the primary air source to power the controls and move a secondary air damper
for adjusting room temperature. In such cases, it is extremely important that the manufacturer’s
minimum static pressure in the plenum of each unit be maintained.

8.7.2 Procedures

Adjust the primary air fan using previously described methods for constant volume systems (see 8.4
and 5.5). With a new or wide-open system, allow for a reduction in airflow while balancing.

Adjust the nozzle pressure according to the manufacturer’s specifications to obtain the design
primary airflow. Induction units can be balanced by using the proportional method or stepwise
method as described previously for balancing diffusers or registers (see Section 8.4.1 and 8.4.2).
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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

8.8 VARIABLE VOLUME SYSTEM OVERVIEW

Procedures for a Variable Air Volume (VAV) system are similar to those for constant volume
systems. The primary difference is that a mechanism exists in the system to vary system flow in
response to demand. The fan capacity is usually controlled to maintain a field determined duct
static pressure. A static pressure sensor, usually located two-thirds of the way from the fan to the
end of the duct system, senses the supply air duct static pressure and sends a signal back to the
apparatus controlling the fan airflow volume. Another method of capacity control utilizes the
capability of a DDC system to determine individual terminal unit airflow requirements and adjust
the system in response. This control sequence is normally referred to as static pressure reset.

8.8.1 Diversity

The Certified Firm should determine if the VAV system has a diversity factor.

8.8.2 Terminal Units

VAV systems incorporate terminal units that respond to local zone demand by controlling the
amount of primary (system) air that is distributed to the local zone. There are two basic types of
terminal units, pressure dependent and pressure independent:

Pressure Dependent Terminal Unit: A pressure dependent terminal unit is not equipped to
measure and maintain primary air volume. Actual airflow through the terminal unit is a function of
upstream static pressure and damper position.

Pressure Independent Terminal Unit: A pressure independent terminal unit is equipped with a flow
sensing controller that can be set to limit maximum and minimum primary air discharge from the
terminal unit.

There are many different variations of terminal unit functions, the following list overviews a few of
the more common types.

8.8.3 Cooling Only Units

The simplest variety of VAV terminal unit has a damper that responds to zone demand by opening
or closing to modulate the amount of primary air delivered to the zone. It may be either pressure
dependent (PD) or pressure independent (PI). This type of terminal unit may also serve as a
component of a variable temperature system, typically in a PD application. It is important to consult
the manufacturer’s specifications to obtain information regarding performance and operating
characteristics.

8.8.4 Cooling Units With Reheat

This is a cooling terminal unit with the addition of an electric or hydronic heating coil. Units with
electric heating coils are supplied with an airflow switch that shuts off the heating coil if the total
pressure at the reheat coils fails below a certain value. The intent of this safety is to prevent
damage to the unit or the heating coils, however, it does not assure adequate air flow as the device
is currently used. Adequate backpressure on the terminal unit is required to activate the switch,
which may require the installation of an additional damper in the terminal unit discharge duct.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

8.8.5 Fan Powered VAV Terminal Units

Fan powered VAV terminal units are terminal units that contain individual supply air fans and may
be arranged in parallel or series.

Parallel Fan Terminal unit: Primary airflow through the terminal unit does not pass through the fan.
The fans are usually equipped with a volume control device, i.e. speed controls speed taps or
discharge dampers. In most applications the fan is only operational in the heating mode, when
primary air is at a minimum, or in the minimum ventilation mode to keep air circulation up in the
zone. When demand for primary air increases the parallel fan is shut off by the terminal unit
controls. At a predetermined set-point, the fan is energized and plenum air or return air is mixed
with the primary air. In the full heating mode, primary air may be completely shut off. Consult
project specifications for the sequence specified. Most parallel fan terminal units are pressure
independent and include a primary air velocity sensor and controller. Heating coils may be provided
at the fan inlet or at the terminal unit discharge.

Series Fan Terminal unit: Primary airflow through the terminal unit passes through the fan. The
fans are usually equipped with a volume control device, i.e., speed controls or speed taps. The fan
operates while the terminal unit is in normal operation. The fan mixes plenum or return air from
the space with primary air from the system to maintain a constant flow of air to the conditioned
zone. This type of terminal unit can be equipped with electric or hydronic heat capability. Heating
coils may be provided at the return inlet or at the terminal unit discharge. Improper adjustment of
the terminal unit may allow primary air to short circuit into the return air plenum or plenum air to
mix with primary air. Fan rotation should be verified. Improper start-up may cause the fan to run in
reverse. A proper start sequence will start the fan prior to introducing the primary air.

8.8.6 Dual Duct (DD) Terminal Units

A dual duct terminal unit consists of a plenum box with two primary air inlets, dampers or air valves
with actuators and an air discharge. When the DD terminal unit is pressure independent, a primary
air velocity sensor and controller also will be included, usually for each primary air inlet but other
arrangements are possible. Each terminal unit in dual duct systems is thermostatically controlled to
satisfy the space and temperature requirements. The available sequences are numerous and it is
imperative that the CP reviews the manufacturer’s operating sequence for the type of terminal unit
being balanced. Dual duct terminal units achieve the same result by utilizing a flow control device
on the discharge of the box control to control the total air delivered by the box, and a flow sensor
on one of the primary inlets, usually the primary heating inlet.

8.8.7 Constant Air Volume (CAV) Terminal Units

Some terminal unit applications use the previously described VAV terminals as Constant Air Volume
devices. This is usually accomplished by setting the maximum and minimum primary air volumes to
the same value.

8.8.8 Induction VAV Terminal Units

Induction VAV terminal units use primary air from a central fan system to create a low pressure
area within the box by discharging the primary air at high velocities into a plenum. This low
pressure area usually is separated from a ceiling return air plenum by an automatic damper. The
induced air from the ceiling is mixed with the primary air, so that the actual airflow being

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

discharged from the box is considerably more than the primary airflow. Most of these induction
boxes are designed for VAV operation; however, a few are constant volume.

Study available operating sequences in the manufacturer’s data before attempting to do the TAB
work. Balancing will consist of setting the primary airflow, both maximum and minimum. The
discharge air is a total of the primary air and the induced air. Some boxes have adjustments for the
induction damper setting. After the box is set, the downstream air outlets can be balanced in the
conventional manner.

8.9 VARIABLE AIR VOLUME SYSTEM PROCEDURES

8.9.1 Pressure Dependent VAV Procedures Without Diversity

It is important to note that terminal units on pressure dependent systems may have airflow
significantly different than design requirements. In this condition, the total existing airflow at the
time of the balancing procedure becomes the design flow condition. The outlets may end up being
proportioned, for example, at 75% or 125% of nominal design requirements. This is to be expected,
and should be reported. System conditions are to be included in the project summary.

To eliminate possible misunderstandings later, it is recommended that an agenda with the

proposed balancing procedures be submitted before the TAB work is started.

The following balancing procedures are generally appropriate for variable volume systems with
pressure dependent terminal units without diversity:

a. Verify the construction team responsibilities for system installation and startup as discussed in
Section 3 are complete.
b. Verify that the temperature control contractor’s sequence of operation complements the
terminal unit or terminal unit manufacturer’s installed control system.
c. Confirm that the correct air filters have been installed. Review the specifications to determine
if a temporary filter blockage is required to simulate partially loaded filters.
d. Barometric dampers are to be checked for free operation. If the dampers are equipped with
adjustable weights, they are to be set to maintain the specified building static pressure. All
exhaust systems are to be balanced before adjusting barometric relief dampers.
e. Verify that all manual volume dampers are locked 100% open.
f. Inspect primary air ducts to ensure manufacturer recommended entry conditions to the
terminal unit.
g. Measure the air handler motor amperage.
h. Measure the air handler motor voltage.
i. Confirm that the voltage and amperage matches the air handler motor nameplate.
j. Verify correct rotation.
k. Measure fan RPM and compare to submitted RPM.
l. At fan powered terminal unit, verify that fan is operational.
m. Verify that adequate supply duct static pressure is available to allow balancing of terminal
unit.
n. Posture all terminal units to the maximum demand position.
o. Posture the OA and RA dampers to provide minimum design OA.
p. If manual volume dampers are present at the inlet to each terminal unit, adjust the dampers
to achieve the design air flow at each terminal unit being balanced.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

q. Balance the outlets on each terminal unit using either of the two recommended proportioning
methods.
r. If the terminal unit controls allow a minimum airflow, adjust each terminal unit to deliver the
correct minimum airflow. This is a problematic issue with pressure dependent systems, as
actual minimum flow rates are not controlled and may under or over ventilate the spaces
served in minimum mode. Test and record the values of the downstream terminals with
minimum airflow.
s. Identify the VAV terminal unit(s) that is (are) the most difficult to satisfy at the current supply
fan airflow and static pressure. Measure the static pressure at this unit. The entering static
pressure at this terminal unit should be no less than the sum of the terminal unit
manufacturer recommended minimum inlet static pressure plus the static pressure or
resistance of the ductwork and the terminals on the discharge side of the terminal unit. Adjust
system static pressure to the minimum value necessary to maintain design airflow at this
terminal unit(s). This set-points information should be provided to the appropriate project
personnel.
t. Measure the AHU total air volume. A duct traverse is the preferred method. The sum of
several traverses may be required.
u. If necessary, adjust fan airflow to meet design requirements.
v. Determine the AHU’s design total static pressure (TSP) or external static pressure (ESP). If the
rating is for TSP, measure the suction and discharge static pressure at the inlet and outlet of
the fan. If the rating is for ESP, measure the suction and discharge static pressure at the return
duct and discharge duct. The suction static pressure measurement point can be immediately
adjacent to the unit. The discharge measurement point should be taken 3 to 5 duct diameters
from the discharge of the fan.
w. Test and record the operating static pressure at the sensor that controls the HVAC unit fan, if
provided, and verify the operation of the static pressure controller.
x. If testing with partially loaded filters is specified, measure pressure drop across air filters and
adjust a temporary blockage to meet specified requirements.
y. A return air fan (if used) should be adjusted to maintain a slightly positive pressure in the
building. This may be accomplished by damper adjustment and/or fan speed adjustment.
z. At the conclusion of all system balancing, adjust and verify the AHU minimum outside air
ventilation rate.
aa. Record final unit data, complete the report forms, and submit as required.

8.9.2 Pressure Dependent VAV Procedures with Diversity

The CF is to determine if the VAV system has a diversity factor. The diversity factor is an arithmetic
ratio of the fan’s rated airflow capacity divided by a summation of all VAV terminal unit’s design
maximum airflow. A system with a fan rated at 8,000 CFM (4000 L/s) and a VAV terminal combined
maximum design of 10,000 CFM (5000 L/s) would be considered to have a diversity factor of 80%.

VAV systems with diversity can be the most difficult to balance satisfactorily. Any procedure used
will be a compromise, and shortcomings will appear somewhere in the system under certain
operating conditions. The CP should expect that some fine-tuning will be necessary after the initial
TAB work is complete.

The following balancing procedures are generally appropriate for variable volume systems with
pressure dependent terminal units with diversity:

a. Verify the construction team responsibilities for system installation and startup as discussed in
Section 3 are complete.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

b. Verify that the temperature control contractor’s sequence of operation complements the
terminal unit manufacturer’s installed control system.
c. Confirm that the correct air filters have been installed. Review the specifications to determine
if a temporary filter blockage is required to simulate partially loaded filters.
d. Barometric dampers are to be checked for free operation. If the dampers are equipped with
adjustable weights, they are to be set to maintain the specified building static pressure. All
exhaust systems are to be balanced before adjusting barometric relief dampers.
e. Verify that all manual volume dampers are locked 100% open.
f. Inspect primary air ducts to ensure manufacturer recommended entry conditions to the
terminal units.
g. Measure air handler motor amperage.
h. Measure air handler voltage.
i. Confirm that the voltage and amperage matches the air handler’s motor rating.
j. Verify correct rotation.
k. Measure fan RPM and compare to design RPM.
l. At fan-powered terminal units, verify that fan is operational.
m. Posture the system OA and RA dampers to provide the minimum design ventilation airflow.
n. Verify that adequate supply duct static pressure is available to allow balancing of terminal
units.
o. VAV systems with diversity factors should be initially postured to operate at maximum system
airflow with all peak load terminal units wide open and all non-peak terminal units closed to
the minimum position. Distribute the reduced airflow terminal units throughout the system so
that they are not all one major branch.
p. If manual volume dampers are present at the inlet to each box, adjust the dampers to achieve
the design airflow at each terminal unit being balanced.
q. Balance the outlets on each terminal unit using either of the two recommended balancing
procedures.
r. Set the non-peak terminal units to a full flow condition, and close as many peak boxes as
necessary to match the design flow of the non-peak boxes.
s. Balance the outlets on each terminal unit using either of the two recommended procedures.
t. If the existing terminal unit controls allow a minimum airflow, adjust each terminal unit to
deliver the correct minimum airflow. This is a problematic issue with pressure dependent
systems, as actual minimum flow rates are not controlled and my under or over ventilate the
spaces served in minimum mode. Test and record the values of the downstream terminals
with minimum airflow.
u. Identify the terminal unit(s) that is (are) the most difficult to satisfy at the existing supply fan
airflow and static pressure. Measure the static pressure at this unit. The entering static
pressure at this Terminal unit should be no less than the sum of the terminal unit
manufacturer recommended minimum inlet static pressure plus the static pressure or
resistance of the ductwork and the terminals on the discharge side of the terminal unit. Adjust
system static pressure to the minimum value necessary to maintain design airflow at this
terminal unit(s). this set point information should be provided to the appropriate project
personnel.
v. Measure the AHU total air volume. A duct traverse is the preferred method. The sum of
several traverses may be required.
w. If necessary, adjust fan airflow to meet design requirements.
x. Determine the AHU’s design total static pressure (TSP) or external static pressure (ESP). if the
rating is for TSP, measure the suction and discharge static pressure at the inlet and outlet of
the fan. If the rating is for ESP, measure the suction and discharge static pressure at the return
duct and discharge duct. The suction static pressure measurement point can be immediately

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

adjacent to the unit. The discharge static pressure measurement should be taken 3 to 5 duct
diameters from the discharge of the fan.
y. Test and record the operating static pressure at the sensor that controls the HVAC unit fan, if
provided, and verify the operation of the static pressure controller.
z. If testing with partially loaded filters is specified, measure pressure drop across air filters and
adjust a temporary blockage to meet specified requirements.
aa. A return air fan (if used) should be adjusted to maintain a slightly positive pressure in the
building. This may be accomplished by damper adjustment and/or fan speed adjustment.
bb. At the conclusion of all system balancing, adjust and verify the AHU minimum outside air
ventilation rate, if required.
cc. Record final unit data, prepare the report forms, and submit as required (see Section 5).

8.9.3 Pressure Independent VAV Procedures Without Diversity

The manufacturer’s published data provides the static pressure operating range and the minimum
static pressure drop across each terminal unit for a given airflow. Use this data to verify that
adequate pressure is available for the terminal unit to function properly.

The objective of balancing pressure independent terminal units is the same, regardless of the type
of controls used. They must be adjusted to deliver the specified maximum and minimum airflows.

For simplification, consider each pressure independent terminal unit and its associated
downstream ductwork to be a separate supply air duct system. Because of terminal unit pressure
independent characteristics, it is possible to balance all of the boxes on a system, even if the system
pressure is low. If there is adequate static pressure and airflow available at the terminal unit inlet,
the box and its associated outlets can be balanced. When there is inadequate static pressure, set
the adjacent boxes into the minimum airflow position to increase the static pressure to simulate
design conditions. This method of simulating or providing adequate static pressure also applies to
balancing systems with diversity.

The following balancing procedures are generally appropriate for variable volume systems with
pressure independent terminal units without diversity:

a. Verify the construction team responsibilities for system installation and startup as discussed in
Section 3 are complete.
b. Verify that the temperature control contractor’s sequence of operation complements the
terminal unit or terminal unit manufacturer’s installed control system.
c. Confirm that the correct air filters have been installed. Review the specifications to determine
if a temporary filter blockage is required to simulate partially loaded filters.
d. Barometric dampers should be checked for free operation. If the dampers are equipped with
adjustable weights, they should be set to maintain the specified building static pressure. All
exhaust systems should be balanced before adjusting barometric relief dampers.
e. Verify that all manual volume dampers are locked 100% open.
f. Inspect primary air ducts to ensure manufacturer recommended entry conditions to the
terminal unit.
g. Measure the air handler motor amperage.
h. Measure the air handler motor voltage.
i. Confirm that the voltage and amperage matches the air handler motor rating.
j. Verify correct rotation.
k. Measure fan RPM and compare to design RPM.
l. At fan powered terminal units, verify that fan is operational.

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

m. Posture the system OA and RA dampers to provide minimum design OA volume,

n. Verify that adequate supply duct static pressure is available to allow balancing of terminal
units.
o. Calibrate the volume controllers on each terminal unit using the manufacturer’s
recommended procedures.
p. Balance the outlets on each terminal unit using either of the two recommended balancing
procedures.
q. Identify the terminal unit(s) that is/are the most difficult to satisfy at the existing supply fan
airflow and static pressure at this terminal unit. The entering static pressure at this terminal
unit should be no less than the sum of the terminal unit manufacturer recommended
minimum inlet static pressure plus the static pressure or resistance of the ductwork and the
terminals on the discharge side of the terminal unit. Adjust system static pressure to the
minimum value necessary to maintain design airflow at this terminal unit(s). This set point
information should be provided to the appropriate project personnel.
r. Measure the AHU total air volume. A duct traverse is the preferred method. The sum of
several traverses may be required.
s. If necessary, adjust the fan airflow to meet design requirements.
t. Determine the AHU’s design total static pressure (TSP) or external static pressure (ESP). if the
rating is for TSP, measure the suction and discharge static pressure at the inlet and outlet of
the fan. If the rating is for ESP, measure the suction and discharge pressure at the return duct
and discharge duct. The suction static pressure measurement point can be immediately
adjacent to the unit. The discharge measurement point should be taken 3 to 5 duct diameters
from the discharge of the fan.
u. Test and record the operating static pressure at the sensor that controls the HVAC unit fan if
provided, and verify the operation of the static pressure controller.
v. If testing with partially loaded filters is specified, measure the pressure drop across air filters
and adjust a temporary blockage to meet specified requirements.
w. A return air fan (if used) should be adjusted to maintain a slightly positive pressure in the
building. This may be accomplished by damper adjustment and/or fan speed adjustment.
x. At the conclusion of all system balancing, adjust and verify the AHU minimum OA ventilation
rate, if required.
y. Record final unit data, complete the report forms and submit as required.

8.9.4 Pressure Independent VAV Procedures With Diversity

Follow the procedures for pressure independent VAV systems without diversity. When the terminal
unit balancing procedures are complete, the total system airflow is measured by adjusting a
combination of terminal units to maximum and minimum airflows to match the design fan airflow.
Fan performance is then measured by methods previously described (see Sections 8.9.1 and 8.9.2).

Complete the reporting requirements as previously specified.

8.9.5 Combination Systems

Some system applications may incorporate pressure independent terminal units and pressure
dependent terminal units on the same system, either with or without diversity. Balancing
procedures will have to be tailored to each job. It is recommended that the pressure independent
boxes are balanced first, since once they are balanced, they will not be affected by changing static
pressures as the rest of the system is being balanced, provided that adequate main duct static
pressure doesn’t drop below a minimum value.

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If system has many pressure dependent boxes, they may consume most of the system airflow and
static pressure on the initial system stat up, since they will be wide open. Either set some of these
boxes to a minimum airflow position or partially close the inlet dampers on some boxes to build up
the static pressure in the system. After setting all of the pressure independent terminal units, use
the procedures detailed previously for pressure dependent systems and balance the downstream
air outlets.

8.10 DUAL DUCT SYSTEMS

Dual duct systems use both a hot air duct and a cold air duct to supply air to mixing boxes. Mixing
boxes may operate in a constant air volume mode or in a variable air volume mode. They are
usually pressure independent, but they may be either system powered or have external control
systems. There are many operational schemes for these types of units. The CP is to review the
specific manufacturer’s setup instructions for these units.

8.10.1 Constant Volume Dual Duct Systems

Each constant volume mixing box has a thermostatically controlled mixing damper to satisfy the
space temperature requirements. A mixture of the hot and cold air is controlled to maintain a
constant airflow to the space.

The following balancing procedures are appropriate for constant volume dual duct systems:

a. Verify the construction team responsibilities for system installation and startup as discussed in
Section 3 are complete.
b. Verify that the temperature control contractor’s sequence of operation complements the
terminal unit or terminal unit manufacturer’s installed control system.
c. Confirm that the correct air filters have been installed. Review the specifications to determine
if a temporary filter blockage is required to simulate partially loaded filters.
d. Barometric dampers should checked for free operation. If the dampers are equipped with
adjustable weights, they should be set to maintain the specified building static pressure. All
exhaust systems should be balance before adjusting barometric relief dampers.
e. Verify that all manual volume dampers are locked 100% open.
f. Inspect primary air ducts to ensure adequate entry conditions to the terminal units.
g. Start the fan and immediately measure the motor running amperage.
h. Complete all fan and motor data in accordance with Section 5 reporting requirements.
i. Posture the system OA and RA dampers to provide the minimum design ventilation airflow.
j. Determine the AHU’s design total static pressure (TSP) or external static pressure (ESP). if the
rating is for TSP, measure suction and discharge static pressure at the inlet and outlet of the
fan. If the rating is for ESP, measure the suction and discharge static pressure at the return
duct and discharge duct. The suction pressure static measurement point can be immediately
adjacent to the unit. The discharge measurement point should be taken no closer to the
discharge than 3 to 5 duct diameters.
k. If testing with partially loaded filters is specified, measure pressure drop across air filters and
adjust temporary blockage to meet specified requirements.
l. Place all of the dual duct boxes and the supply air fan in a full flow condition. It is common
practice to set all the mixing boxes to their full cold airflow position for setting the fan
volume, but first verify that the cooling coil is designed to handle the same airflow as the
HVAC duct system. It may be designed for less airflow creating a diversity that will require
some mixing boxes to be set in a heating position for a total system flow test.
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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

m. Measure the AHU total air volume. A duct traverse is the most accurate method available. The
sum of several traverses may be required.
n. If necessary, adjust fan airflow to meet design requirements.
o. Balance the dual duct boxes using procedures described in the following Paragraph 8.11.4.
The CP should use these procedures as a guide, and modify the procedures as required by the
individual projects.
p. Test and record the operating static pressure at the sensors that control the HVAC unit fan or
fans, if provided, and verify the operation of the static pressure controllers.
q. Final system measurements: at the conclusion of all system balancing, adjust and verify the
AHU minimum outside air ventilation rate, if required.
r. Record final unit data, complete the report forms, and submit as required.

8.10.2 Variable Volume Duct Systems

The procedures to TAB variable volume dual duct systems are similar to that of dual duct constant
volume systems, with minor variations:
a. The boxes are calibrated in both heating and cooling modes.
b. The terminal outlets are to be balanced in only on mode.
c. System setup procedures are similar to those required for constant volume dual duct systems,
and are to be adapted as necessary by the CP to conform to the particular system being
balanced.

8.11 VARIABLE AIR VOLUME TERMINA (VAV) UNIT PROCEDURES

8.11.1 Cooling only Terminal Units

Pressure Dependent:
a. Set the terminal unit to maximum airflow.
b. Test the total airflow delivered by the terminal unit using one of the following methods:
 Perform a duct traverse
 Total of air being delivered from the outlets.
c. Adjust the terminal unit total airflow with available devices, manual stops or control system.
d. Adjust the outlets using either the proportional or the stepwise method.
e. Adjust the terminal unit minimum airflow using the methods listed above.

Pressure Independent:
a. Set the volume controller to design maximum airflow.
b. Test the total airflow delivered by the terminal unit using one of the following methods:
 Perform a duct traverse
 Total of air being delivered from the outlets.
c. Calibrate the controller, by appropriate methods, to the measured airflow.
d. Balance the outlets using either the proportional or the stepwise method.
e. Set the volume controller to the design minimum airflow.
f. Calibrate the controller for the required minimum using the methods above for calibrating
maximum.

Note: Some VAV control systems may require the minimum airflow set point to be calibrated
before the maximum airflow set point; confirm with the control system supplier.

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8.11.2 Cooling Only Terminal Units With Reheat

These units are balanced as described for cooling only terminal units, with the possibility of distinct
heating airflow set point(s). the heating airflows are verified and reported.

8.11.3 Fan Terminal VAV/CAV Units

Parallel Type (Pressure Independent of Dependent):

a. The primary airflows are balanced as discussed previously for a cooling only terminal unit.
b. Set the controls to operate the fan with the primary air valve at minimum flow.
c. Adjust the fan airflow to design airflow by adjusting the fan speed or dampers, whichever is
provided.
d. Verify heating airflow and report.

Series Type (Pressure Independent):

a. Set the terminal unit to the design maximum cooling set point.
b. Set the fan speed to design airflow by measuring the outlet total airflow and comparing to
design requirements.
c. Adjust the primary damper to obtain a neutral condition at the return inlet. When the inlet is
neutral, the fan airflow equal to primary airflow.
d. Balance the air outlets using an appropriate method.
e. Place the terminal unit to the minimum position and adjust the primary airflow to design
requirements.
f. Verify the heating airflow and report.
g. On series terminal unit systems only, volume dampers may be used to restrict airflow if fan
airflow cannot be reduced, provided that a noise problem is not created.

Note: Some VAV control systems may require the minimum airflow set point to be calibrated
before the maximum airflow set point; confirm with the control system supplier. Design primary
airflow may not always equal design fan airflow.

Some manufacturers have their own required test procedures for measurement and balancing of
airflows. It is up to the TAB Firm to obtain and apply to appropriate method for calibration and
balancing of specific terminal units that will be acceptable to the project.

8.11.4 Dual Duct Terminal Units (Constant or Variable Volume)

It is not practical to cover all of the various operating sequences here, and it is very important the
CF review the control manufacturer’s balancing procedures. If the control manufacturer’s
specifications do not address TAB procedures, the appropriate procedures should be developed. A
generic pressure independent procedure is described below:

a. Set the cooling volume controller to design maximum airflow.

b. Set the heating volume controller to a fully closed position.
c. Test the total airflow delivered by the terminal unit using one of the following methods:
 Perform a duct traverse
 Total of air being delivered from the outlets.
d. Calibrate the cooling volume controller, by appropriate methods, to measured airflow.
e. Balance the outlets using either the proportional or the stepwise method.
f. Set the cooling volume controller to a fully closed position.
g. Set the heating volume controller to design maximum airflow.
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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

h. Calibrate the heating volume controller by appropriate methods, to measured airflow.

i. The control sequence is to be tested to verify that the minimum ventilation requirements are
provided.

8.12 UNDERFLOOR PLENUM SUPPLY AIR SYSTEMS

Underfloor plenum supply air systems require extensive cooperation from all members of the
construction team. The design team is responsible to carefully and completely specify what is
required of all participating members of the construction team. The underfloor system relies on the
integrity of the floor plenum to transport the conditioned air to the occupied zone above the floor.
Air leakage in the underfloor plenum is a critical determinant of system performance. The integrity
of the underfloor plenum is commonly compromised by poor wall construction; penetrations of the
plenum walls by electrical conduit, plumbing and piping systems; communication cabling, etc. it is
the responsibility of the design team and construction team to specify and construct a plenum with
minimal air leakage.

Floor tiles are usually designed to be removable; however, the carpet tiles are frequently not
compatible with the floor tiles and complicated the removal and replacement procedures. The
installation of VAV terminals, for perimeter heating or special load applications, below the floor will
require provisions for maintenance, especially if those terminals are equipped with filters for the
plenum inlets.

Buildings with VAV floor diffusers, served by central station air handling systems typically have
underfloor static pressure control systems. These control systems operate to maintain a constant
static pressure in the underfloor plenum. Control of the underfloor static pressure allows the VAV
diffusers to operate without adversely affecting the constant volume floor diffusers. In general, an
underfloor system can be treated as a special case of a constant volume system. The CP is to
communicate the importance of the construction requirements regarding underfloor leakage to the
design and construction teams. These systems often have hundreds of diffusers. In this case, it may
be appropriate to report room or zone total airflows, rather than trying to provide a unique
identifier for each of hundreds of floor diffusers.

8.13 RETURN AIR SYSTEMS

Constant volume ducted return air systems are balanced using the same principles and guidelines
as for constant volume supply air systems. Follow NEBB procedures and incorporate the
appropriate modifications to the procedures to accomplish the specified requirements.

Individual return grilles in open non-ducted air systems cannot be balanced, even if design return
airflows are indicated on the plans.

8.14 EXHAUST AIR SYSTEMS

8.14.1 General Exhaust Air Systems

Constant volume exhaust air systems are balanced using the same principles and guidelines as for
constant volume supply systems. Follow NEBB procedures and incorporate the appropriate
modifications to the procedures to accomplish the specified requirements.
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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

8.14.2 Kitchen Exhaust Air/Makeup Air Systems

Kitchen makeup air systems must be in operation when the balancing takes place. Makeup air is
achieved by means of relief or transfer grilles from adjoining areas, or by a dedicated makeup air
system.

Velocity readings of the grease filters or slots, performed in accordance with the manufacturer’s
specifications, are the most appropriate and generally accepted method to perform TAB
procedures on a kitchen hood. Most kitchen hood exhaust ducts are made of heavy gauge metal,
and are covered with a thick fire resistant insulation. Traverses of grease exhaust ducts are not
recommended. If a traverse of the exhaust duct is necessary, access to the duct is provided by
others. When the testing is complete, repair to the duct and fire resistant enclosure is provided by
others and is in accordance with applicable codes and industry practices.

When making velocity readings a correction for air density may be required if elevated
temperatures are present or predicted.

8.15 VARIABLE FLOW SYSTEMS/VARIABLE SPEED DRIVES (VFD)

8.15.1 General: Variable Airflow Systems

Typically, variable volume air systems are balanced using the same principles and guidelines as for
constant volume supply systems. NEBB procedures should be followed and incorporate the
appropriate modifications to accomplish the specified requirements.

System fans fitted with VFDs normally modulate from a maximum design airflow to a minimum
design airflow. It is generally the expectation of the TAB firm that the maximum design airflow will
be achieved at or near 100% motor speed and that the minimum flow will be achieved well above
the minimum motor speed recommended by the manufacturer or supplier. There are occasions
when either an acceptable maximum or minimum speed/flow combination cannot be accomplished
with the provided sheave sets, thus requiring sheave changes.

8.15.2 NEBB TAB Responsibilities

By these standards (Section 8.3.4) the TAB firm is responsible for all fan and system related
adjustments and reporting.

The TAB firm is not required by these Procedural Standard to provide or install new sheave sets,
however the specification and contract documents may assign this responsibility to the TAB CF.

8.15.3 Speed Change Procedures

8.15.3.1
Determine system diversity (if applicable), maximum operating pressures, maximum BHP and other
factors that affect setting of final speed.

8.15.3.2
Verify Manufacturer’s maximum fan RPM to assure that an increase in speed does not exceed the
maximum RPM of the fan wheel at any time (This is critical). The maximum fan wheel RPM can be
found in the manufacturer’s submittal data.
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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

8.15.3.3
Verify that an increase in maximum RPM does not exceed the fan class rating (I, II, III). If
calculations show that this is a possibility, the manufacturer and A/E should make the final decision.
Authorization to proceed should be in writing.

8.15.3.4
Never exceed the corrected full load amperage on the motor regardless of the motor’s rated
service factor. Authorization to run a motor in the service factor should come from the
manufacturer, A/E or contractor, and should be in writing.

8.15.3.5
Verify the need to pre-load the filters to a designated filter pressure differential at maximum air
flow. If no pre-loading is specified, operate the system with clean filters and report.

8.15.3.6
When the system is variable speed, take care to not operate the system at a minimum frequency
that can be harmful to the motor. The setting should be coordinated with the party responsible for
programming the VFD.

8.15.3.7
Before operating a variable speed system above 60Hz, verify with the interested parties that this is
acceptable and is within the limits of all system components such as maximum fan wheel rpm.

8.15.3.8
When the CF is required to recommend a new drive package, the information provided to the
contractor should meet all the requirements in the specification such as, horsepower rating of the
drive package (example: 150% of motor nameplate horsepower).

8.15.3.9
When slowing a system down, it is acceptable to reduce the number of belts as long as the final
package meets the horsepower requirements of the specification. When reducing the number of
belts, both sheaves should be changed. Do not run with one or two empty grooves on a sheave.

8.15.3.10
Direct drive fans operating with VFDs often will be specified to operate above 60Hz. Any
adjustment to this maximum frequency should adhere to all of the above limitations of fan
maximum RPM, fan class or motor nameplate amps. Do not exceed 120 Hz or any frequency limit
published by the fan/motor manufacturer.

8.15.3.11
If a variable speed system at minimum air flow requires the fan motor run at a “near stall”
condition where it may or may not initiate rotation on startup, or the motor overheats due to an
extremely slow RPM, the manufacturer, A/E and contractor should be notified immediately. An
auxiliary cooling fan may be required to protect the motor.

8.15.3.12
Before restarting the fan, all sheave components must be tightened to the manufacturer’s
recommended torque. This includes set screws and tapered bushing bolts.

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8.15.3.13
Multiple belt drive packages must be equipped with a “matched” set of belts to assure equal
loading on all belts.

8.15.3.14
The drive belts should be properly aligned and tensioned to the manufacturer’s recommended
tension using a belt tension measuring instrument that provides the proper deflection with the
recommended pressure applied to the belt.

8.15.3.15
The belts should be re-tensioned after they been in operation for 24 hours or more to take the
initial “stretch” out of them.

Note: if a system is equipped with DX cooling, closely match operational airflow to system tonnage.
Consult the Engineer and Equipment Supplier for speed/airflow selections.

8.16 ENERGY RECOVERY SYSTEMS

8.16.1 General Energy Recovery Systems

Energy Recovery Units (ERU) are a type of HVCAC equipment (and system) that feature a heat
exchanger combined with a building exhaust and ventilation system for providing controlled
ventilation into a building while reclaiming some of the heating or cooling from the exhausted air.

These systems are typically installed where large volumes of ventilation (outside) air are required to
meet code standards.

Testing, adjusting and balancing the air delivery of these systems is the same procedure as any air
handling unit or exhaust system. The added effort required by the TAB CF is defining the flow across
the exchanger and evaluating its performance.

There are two distinct types of energy recovery units:

8.16.1.1 Total Energy Recovery Systems

Total Energy Recovery units exchange both sensible heat (dry bulb) and latent heat (moisture
removal/adding) across the exchanger. The exchanger is typically a rotating of desiccant material
that rotates between the exhaust air path and the outside air path.

In the cooling season this rotation transfers the heat and moisture of incoming air into the building
exhaust air, thus reducing the cooling load.

In the heating season this rotation transfers the heat and moisture of building exhaust air to the
incoming air, thus reducing the heating load.

To insure there is no cross contamination of air between the exhaust and the incoming ventilation
air the systems have a prescribed requirement for “purge” air. Purge air flows from the incoming air
stream (clean) to the exhaust air stream (dirty) to minimize cross contamination in the system. The
CF must determine this quantity and adjust to the specified amount. Complete all TAB work and
Report Data in accordance with Section 5 of this Standard.
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8.16.1.2 Sensible Energy Recovery Systems

Sensible Energy Recovery units exchange only sensible heat (dry bulb) across the exchanger. The
exchanger is typically a cross flow heat exchanger that allows heat transfer between two totally
isolated air paths thus eliminating the possibility of cross contamination. This type system is
commonly used in laboratory environments.

The TAB firm will adjust, balance and record the performance of the Sensible Energy Recovery
System using the same procedures as described above. Reporting requirements shall be per Section
5 of this edition.

8.17 LABORATORY BIOSAFETY & FUME HOODS

Never enter or work in a laboratory, clean space or biological laboratory without permission. Only
do so after appropriate safety awareness training.

Refer to NEBB Procedural Standard for Fume Hood Testing and the NEBB Procedural Standard for
Cleanroom Testing.

8.18 INDUSTRIAL EXHAUST HOODS AND EQUIPMENT

8.18.1 Air and Fume Exhaust Systems

NEBB Procedural Standard for Fume Hoods Performance Testing should be referenced for proper
testing techniques.

The balancing procedure is basically the same as any other exhaust air system. A duct traverse is
the preferred method. The sum of several traverses may be required. The differences are mainly in
how to test the various inlet openings. If an inlets opening velocity must be measured, obtain the
free area opening by measuring it and then calculate what the velocity is to be. Quite often this will
not be possible due to irregular shapes and/or obstructions.

A thermal anemometer is a very valuable instrument for this type of work as the probe is small
enough to get into obstructed places. Proper testing in these situations may require review of the
equipment manufacturer’s data, as the procedures for setting up and testing the equipment may
be available.

8.19 BUILDING STATIC PRESSURE CONTROL METHODS

There are three commonly applied methods of controlling building static pressure:

8.19.1 Active Building Static Pressure Control

Building static pressure controllers sense differential pressures between a typical room and
outdoors, and increase the volume of air handled by the return/exhaust air fan as building
pressures increases. This method controls building by sensing the value of the variable being
controlled, and adjusting return or exhaust fan flow as necessary. Typical commercial building static
pressure range from +0.02 in. w.g. to +0.05 in. w.g. (5Pa to 12.5 Pa)
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8.19.2 Open Loop Control

Open loop (or “non-feedback”) control uses an adjustable span and start-point on the supply air
and return air fan controls sequence the return air fan operation with the supply air fan. This
system requires close attention by the CP. If the system loop varies significantly among the major
zones the supply air fan serves, resistance in the return air system may not vary in direct proportion
to resistance in the supply air system. Open loop control does not sense the effect of resistance
variance between the supply air and return air systems, and building pressures may vary when
major load variation occurs.

8.19.3 Closed Loop Control (Fan Tracking)

The closed loop control senses changes in the volume of air the supply air fan delivers and uses a
controller having a second input proportional to the return air fan flow to reset air fan. This is
commonly referred to as fan tracking. Controlling return flow in response to changes to supply fan
flow requires a thorough understanding of system and building performance in order to the
resulting fan performance to be acceptable.

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Section 9. HYDRONIC SYSTEM TSTING, ADJUSTING & BALANCING

PROCEDURES
9.1 INTRODUCTION

This section describes procedures necessary for testing, adjusting and balancing (TAB) of commonly
installed HVAC system. It is the responsibility of the NEBB Certified TAB Firm (CF) or NEBB Certified
TAB Professional (CP) to determine appropriate procedures for systems not covered in this section.

Domestic Hot Water Recirculation systems are not a requirement of this standard. If balancing is
required for domestic hot water recirculation systems, the EOR must include the requirements
within the scope detailed in the contract documents.

9.2 PRELIMINARY SYSTEM PROCEDURES

9.2.1
Each type of HVAC system is designed to meet a set of performance parameters. This usually
includes maximum heating capacity, maximum cooling capacity and ventilation effectiveness. Prior
to the TAB process, the CF should normally set up a system to its “full load” condition (or maximum
capacity). The full load condition presents the greatest challenge to a system’s capacity meeting its
design airflow requirements.

9.2.2
Not all systems are covered in this section, only those most commonly installed. Confer with the
EOR to establish the proper set up conditions for specific systems.

9.2.3
The following TAB procedures are basic to all types of hydronic systems:

a. Verify that the construction team responsibilities for system installation and startup as
discussed in Section 3 are complete.
b. Confirm that every item affecting the hydronic flow in a piping system is ready for the TAB
work, i.e. pumps started and operating, piping systems flushed, vented, chemical treatment
complete, air vents installed and operating. Startup strainer screens removed and replaced
with final strainer screens. Expansion tank properly installed and system properly filled to
design pressure.
c. Prepare and submit, if required, the TAB plan that includes specific hydronic procedures to be
implemented.
d. Prepare TAB forms in compliance with Section 5 of this edition of Procedural Standard and the
project’s drawings and specifications.
e. Confirm that automatic control system is complete and available for use in completing TAB
operations.
f. Simulate the conditions for design maximum system requirements.
g. Verify that all valves are open or set, all related systems are operating, motors are operating
at or below full load amperage ratings, and pump rotation is correct.

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9.3 HYDRONIC SYSTEM MEASUREMENT METHODS

9.3.1 Basic Flow Measurement Methods

The appropriate techniques for flow measurement of hydronic systems are to be determined by
reviewing the system(s) to be tested. There are six basic methods available for measuring the flow
quantity in a piping system:

1. Flow meters or flow fittings

2. Calibrated balancing valves
3. Pump curves
4. Equipment pressure loss
5. Heat transfer method
6. Ultrasonic Flow meter

It is preferable to balance hydronic systems by the use of calibrated flow measuring devices. Flow
measurement is accomplished by the use of different pressure meters and calibrated balancing
valves, venturis and/or ultrasonic flow meters. Balancing flow measurement eliminates
compounding errors introduced by the temperature difference or equipment pressure drop
procedures. This measurement approach also allows the pump to be matched to the actual system
requirements. Proper instrumentation and good pre planning is needed.

9.3.2 Calibrated Flow Measuring Devices

Calibrated flow measuring devices are the preferred method of flow measurement. The CF will
verify that installation of the calibrated flow measuring devices is in accordance with recommended
practices given by the manufacturer. Calibrated flow measuring devices include orifice plates,
venturis, Pitot tubes, turbine meters, ultrasonic meters, etc.

Note: Verify that the pressure units of the differential pressure gauge and the pressure units found
on the flow charts provided by the manufacturer are identical. If pressure units are not the same
(i.e. psi, in. w.g., ft. w.g., Pa, kPA, mm, m3/h), pressure conversions will be required.

9.3.3 Calibrated Balancing Valves

The three types of calibrated balancing valves are self-adjusting, adjustable orifice, and fixed orifice
valves.

Self-Adjusting Valves

A self-adjusting valve/flow sensing device utilizes internal mechanisms that constantly change
internal orifice openings to compensate for varying system differential pressures while
maintaining a preset flow rate. No external adjustment is available with this device. Pressure taps
allow for measurement of valve different pressure which is an indirect indication of system flow.

The CF will verify the valve flow rating from the data tag, and verify by differential pressure
measurements, if available, that the pressure drop across the valve is within the control range of
the valve.

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Adjustable Orifice Valves

Some calibrated balancing valves are adjustable orifice devices. A chart or graph, provided by the
valve manufacturer, indicates actual flow rates at various valve positions and differential
pressures. Measurement of the actual flow requires knowledge of the valve position, valve size,
and pressure differential of the valve.

Fixed Orifice Valves

Some calibrated balancing valves are fixed orifice devices. A chart or graph, provided by the valve
manufacturer, indicates actual flow rates at various valve positions and differential pressures.
Measurement of the actual flow requires knowledge of the valve position, valve size, and
pressure differential of the valve.

9.3.4 Pump Curve Method

Actual system flow can be determined with the manufacturer’s pump curve provided with the
pump or provided as part of the certified submittal data. If a certified curve is not available, pump
flow may be approximated by a catalog pump curve. Pump pressure readings shall be taken at the
same test locations used by the manufacturer.

The pump impeller size is verified by measurement of the pump shut-off (no flow) differential head.
The shut-off head values compared to pump curve data to determine the size of the pump impeller.
After opening the pump discharge valve, the pump total head is determined by calculating the
difference between the pump discharge pressure and pump suction pressure. Using the total head,
in appropriate units, determine the pump water flow from the corrected pump curve established
previously. Verify the pump curve data with data from flow meters and/or calibrated balancing
valves.

9.3.5 Equipment Pressure Loss Method

System flow rates may be calculated by using the HVAC equipment pressure loss, provided that
certified data is obtained from the equipment manufacturer indicating rated flow and pressure
losses; and provided that there is an accurate means for determining the actual equipment
pressure losses. Equipment pressure readings shall be taken at similar test locations used by the
manufacturer. Inaccurate measurements will result if dirt, debris, or scaling is present.
Measurements will also be inaccurate if the test ports are placed such that the measured pressures
include pressure drops across valves, elbow, tees, etc. If available, verify the equipment pressure
loss data with data from flow meters and/or calibrated balancing valves.

When the design criteria of the equipment and the pressure loss are known, the flow rate may be
calculated by using the pump affinity laws.

9.3.6 Heat Transfer Method

Approximate flow rates may be established at heating and cooling terminal by using both air and
hydronic measured heat transfer data. This is the least accurate method for determining flow in
hydronic systems.

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9.3.7 Ultrasonic Flow Method

Liquid flow rates may be established using a clamp-on ultrasonic transit time flow measuring
device. The technology needs be programmable for different pipe materials, process liquids, pipe
sizes, and actual pip thickness (thickness gage may need to be used depending on corrosion or build
up in the pipe). With regards to installation, adequate straight run of pipe is to be considered for
optimum performance. Clamp-on Transducers are traditionally located with a total of 15 pipe
diameters of straight run (10 + 5) of pipe between elbows at flow rates of 10 fps, more for greater
flow rates and invasive obstructions and less for lower flow rates (manufacturer guidelines should
be followed for the instrument being used). Flow meters typical optimum accuracies are 1% of rate
between 0.5 to 20 fps. Flow meters do not require to be zeroed in the field. Flow meters shall have
the ability to be programmed for different frequency transducers supplied by manufactures.

9.4 Proportional Balancing Method (Ratio Method)

Balancing hydronic systems may be accomplished in various ways. Two methods for balancing
systems are presented below. Regardless of the method, the objectives remain the same and the
system will be considered balanced in accordance with this edition of NEBB Procedural Standard for
Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental System (Procedural Standard) when the
following conditions are satisfied:

1. All measured hydronic flow quantities are within ±10% of the design flow quantities unless
there are reasons beyond the control of the CF. (Known factors in system deficiencies will be
noted in the TAB report summary.)

2. There is at least one path with fully open balancing valves from the pump to a terminal
device. Additionally, if a system contains branch-balancing valves, there will be at least one
wide-open path downstream of every adjusted branch-balancing valve.

9.4.1 Proportional Balancing Method (Ratio Method)

9.4.1.1 For A Hydronic System Without Branch Controls:

a. Verify that all balancing, control, and isolation valves are wide open.
b. Determine total system volume by the most appropriate method.
c. Calculate the percentage of actual hydronic flow to design flow requirements.
d. Adjust the pump to approximately 110% of design flow, if possible.
e. Measure the flow at all balancing valves.
f. Compute the ratio of measured flow to design flow for each terminal device.
g. The balancing valve serving the terminal at the lowest percentage of design flow is not
adjusted in this procedure.
h. Adjust the balancing valve serving the terminal with the next (second) lowest percentage of
design until both terminals are the same percentage of design. These terminals are now in
balance.
i. Adjust the balancing valve serving the terminal with next (third) lowest percentage of design
until all three terminals are at the same percentage of design, and in balance.
j. Continue this procedure until all remaining terminals have been adjusted to be in balance at
approximately the same percentage of design flow.
k. If necessary, adjust the pump volume to set all terminals at design flow ±10%.

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l. Re-measure all terminal and record final values.

m. Mark or set all memory stops (see Section 1) on all of the balancing valves so that the
adjustment may be restored, if necessary.

9.4.1.2 For A Hydronic System With Branch Circuits That Have Balancing Valves:

a. Follow above steps in 9.4.1.1(a) through € for the terminals on each branch.
b. Compute the ratio of measured branch flow to design branch flow.
c. The balancing valve serving the branch at the lowest percentage of design flow is not adjusted
in this procedure.
d. Adjust the balancing valve serving the branch with the next (second) lowest percentage of
design until both branches are the same percentage of design and in balance.
e. Adjust the balancing valve serving the branch with next (third) lowest percentage of design
until all three branches are at the same percentage of design, and in balance.
f. Continue this procedure until all remaining branches have been adjusted to be in balance at
approximately the same percentage of design flow.
g. If necessary, adjust the pump volume to set all branches at design flow, ±10%.
h. Perform the proportioning techniques specified in above steps (a) through (m) for the
terminals on each branch.
i. Re-measure all terminals and record final values.
j. Mark or set all memory stops on all the balancing valves so that the adjustment may be
restored if necessary.

9.4.2 Stepwise Balancing Method

9.4.2.1 For A Hydronic System Without Branch Circuits:

a. Verify that all balancing, control, and isolation valves are wide open.
b. Determine total system volume by the most appropriate method.
c. Calculate the percentage of actual hydronic flow to design hydronic flow.
d. Adjust the pump volume to approximately 110% of design flow or as required.
e. Measure the flow at all balancing valves.
f. Starting at the pump, as the terminals closest to the pump will typically be the highest, adjust
the balancing valve value approximately 10% below design flow requirements.
g. As the adjustment proceeds to the end of the system the remaining terminal flow values will
increase.
h. Repeat the adjustment passes through the system until all terminals are within ±10% of
design flow requirements at least on balancing valve is wide open.
i. If necessary, adjust the pump volume to set all terminals at design flow ±10%.
j. Re-measure all terminal and record final values.
k. Mark or set all memory stops on all of the balancing valves so that the adjustment may be
restored, if necessary.

9.4.2.2 For A Hydronic System With Branch Circuits That Have Branch Balancing Valves:

a. Follow steps (a) through (e) in Section 9.4.2.1 for the terminals on each branch.
b. Compute the ratio of measured branch flow to design branch flow.
c. Starting at the pump, as the branches closest to the pump will typically be the highest, adjust
the branch balancing to a value approximately 10% below design requirements.
d. As the adjustment proceeds to the end of the system the remaining branch flow values will
increase.

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e. If necessary, adjust the pump volume to set all branches at design flow, ±10%.
f. Balance the equipment on each branch as described in above steps (e) through (i) in Section
9.4.2.1.
g. Re-measure all equipment and record final values.
h. Mark or set all memory stops on all of the balancing valves so that the adjustment may be
restored, if necessary.

9.4.3 Systems With Self-Adjusting Valves

a. Verify that all balancing, control, and isolation valves are wide open.
b. Determine total system flow by the most appropriate method.
c. Calculate the percentage of actual hydronic flow to design hydronic flow.
d. Measure the differential pressure at each self-adjusting balancing valve.
e. Pump differential pressures in systems with self-adjusting valves should be adjusted so that
the differential pressure developed within the system does not over-range the valve
cartridges, which may result in noise or oscillations.
f. System pumps should also be adjusted to ensure at least one self-adjusting valve is at or near
its minimum rating. This is consistent with the requirement that there be one wide open path
available (or as close to wide open as possible with auto-flow valves).

9.5 HYDRONIC SYSTEM BALANCING PROCEDURES

9.5.1 BASIC PROCEDURES

The following balancing procedures are basic to all types of hydronic distribution systems:

a. Verify that the construction team responsibilities for system installation and startup are
complete, as discussed in Section 3.2.
b. Verify that all manual valves are open or present as required, and all temperature control
(automatic) valves are in a normal or desired position.
c. Verify that all automatically controlled devices in the piping or duct systems will not adversely
affect the balancing procedures.
d. With the pump(s) off, observe and record system static pressure at the pump(s)
e. Verify that the system compression tank(s) airside and automatic water fill valve are operating
and set properly.
f. Record the operating voltage and amperage of the pump(s) and compare these with
nameplate ratings and thermal overload heater ratings. Verify the speed (rpm) of each pump.
g. Check pump rotation.
h. Place the systems into operation, check that all air has been vented from the piping systems
and allow flow conditions to stabilize.
i. If flow meters or calibrated balancing valves are installed, that allow the flow rate of the
pump circuit(s) to be measured, perform the necessary work and record the data.
j. Measure the shut-off head of the operating pump by slowly closing a valve or balancing cock
in the pump discharge piping. Record the discharge and suction pressures at the pump gauge
connections and determine shut-off head. Preferably, one gauge should be used to read
differential pressure. It is important that gauge readings be corrected to the center-line
elevation of the pump. (Note: Do not fully close any valves in the discharge piping of a positive
displacement pump. Severe damage may occur.)

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k. Using shut-off head, determine and verify each pump’s impeller size and operating curve.
Compare this data with the submittal data curves. If the test point falls on the design curve,
proceed to the next step; if not, plot a new curve parallel with other curves on the chart, from
zero flow to maximum flow. Open the discharge-balancing valve slowly to the fully open
position; record the discharge pressure, suction pressure, and determine total operating
head.
l. Using the total operating head, read the pump water flow from the previously established
corrected pump curve. If available, verify the pump curve data with data from flow meters
and/or calibrated balancing valves.
m. If the measured total head is greater than the design total head, the water flow will be lower
than designed.
n. If the measured total head is less than design, water flow will be greater, in which case the
pump discharge pressure should be increased by partially closing the discharge balancing
valve until the system water flow is approximately 110% of design. Non VFD System Constant Flow
see 9.5.3 Variable Flow Hydronic Systems
o. Record the suction and discharge pressures and the water flow. for more details.
p. An initial recording of the flow distribution throughout the system shall be made without
making any adjustments. This can be performed by using the existing flow measuring devices,
or pressure/temperature ports, in the system, including any balancing devices at equipment
(i.e., chillers, boilers, hot water exchangers, hot water coils, chilled water coils, etc.).
q. Determine which circuits have high or low water flow. Low flow circuits may be air bound.
Check and vent air if present in low flow circuits and retake readings.
r. Compare actual total system flow with design requirements.
s. Use the proportional balancing method or the stepwise method described previously to adjust
the flow rates through the equipment.
t. After all final adjustments have been completed, perform a final check of the pressures and
the flow of all pumps and equipment. Re-measure the voltage and amperage of pump motors
and record the data.
u. After all TAB work has been completed, set all memory stops and mark or score all balancing
devices at final set points.
v. Record final unit data, prepare the report forms, and submit as required (see Section 5).

9.5.2 Bypass Valves

Where three-way automatic valves are used, set all bypass line balancing valves to the specified
values. If there is no specified value for the bypass flow, adjust the bypassed flow to match the coil
pressure drop.

9.5.3 Variable Flow Hydronic Systems

TAB procedures for a variable flow system are similar to those for constant flow systems. The main
difference is that a mechanism exists in the system to vary system flow in response to demand.
Three methods of controlling variable flow systems are:

1. Controlling the pump speed by a variable frequency drive.

2. Using bypass valves.
3. Allowing the pump to operate at a constant speed on its curve.

The basic steps previously outlined form the foundation for balancing a variable flow hydronic
distribution system. In this subsection, additional balancing procedures are outlined for use in
balancing variable flow hydronic distribution systems.

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Variable flow systems are balanced under simulated full load system conditions. The procedures to
balance a variable flow hydronic system are:

a. Verify that the construction team responsibilities for system installation and startup are
complete, as discussed in Section 3.2.
b. Place the system in a simulated full load condition. If diversity is present in the system,
temporary isolation of portions of the system piping and terminals may be required.
c. Conduct the basic pump testing and flow procedures as outlined previously. If the pump is
controlled by a VFD, verify the pump is operating at its rated speed. Caution should be used
when conducting the required pump “wide open test” on a system with diversity. Insure that
a motor overload condition does not occur.
d. The terminals are balanced using one of the balancing methods described previously.
e. When diversity is present in the system, upon completion of balancing procedures with a
portion of the system isolated, the isolated units are then opened and an equal capacity of
units closed.
f. Units isolated for the initial balancing procedure are then balanced to design flow rates.
g. Slow the VFD down to achieve design flow while keeping the pump discharge balancing valve
wide open.
h. The value of the variable flow control set point shall be measured and recorded. The control
contractor shall be provided with this information. The system operating pressure should
always be adjusted to the minimum value necessary to meet the design conditions.
i. After all TAB work has been completed, set all memory stops and mark or score all balancing
devices at final set points.
j. Record final system data, prepare the report forms, and submit as required.

Diversity is a design concept in a variable flow system that allows a system of terminals to be served
by a pump that is rated for a fraction of the total system capacity. Variable flow systems with
diversity may be encountered in TAB work.

The CP should determine if the variable flow system has a diversity factor. The diversity is an
arithmetic ratio of the pump’s rated hydronic flow capacity divided by a summation of all terminals’
design maximum hydronic flow.

Variable flow systems with diversity can be the most difficult to balance satisfactorily. Any
procedure used will be a compromise, and shortcomings will appear somewhere in the system
under certain operating conditions. The CP should expect that some fine-tuning will be necessary
after the initial TAB work is complete.

9.5.4 Primary-Secondary Hydronic Systems

Initial balancing should be restricted to the primary loop and its components. Secondary systems
should be in full-flow operation during primary loop balancing.

Primary-Secondary hydronic systems are balanced as follows:

a. Verify that the construction team responsibilities for system installation and startup are
complete, as discussed in Section 3.2.
b. Place the secondary system in a simulated full load condition.
c. In Primary-Secondary systems there is a neutral bridge (or decoupler) that is a bidirectional
flow pipe that can allow flow to either the primary or secondary loop as needed. During
balancing, this decoupler should never be closed.

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d. Conduct the basic pump testing and flow procedures on the primary pumps as outlined
previously. If the pump is controlled by a VFD, verify the pump is operating at its rated speed.
Caution should be used when conducting the required pump “wide open test” on a system
with diversity. Insure that an overload condition cannot be reached.
e. With the primary system off, conduct the basic pump testing and flow procedures on the
secondary system as outlined previously.
f. The terminals are balanced using either the stepwise or the proportional balancing methods
described previously.
g. When diversity is present in the system, upon completion of balancing procedures with a
portion of the system isolated, the isolated units are then opened and an equal capacity of
units closed. Units isolated for the initial balancing procedure are then balanced to design
flow rates.
h. With all final adjustments made, perform a final check of the pressures and the flow of all
pumps and equipment. Re-measure the voltage and amperage of pump motors and record
the data.
i. After all TAB work has been completed, set all memory stops and mark or score all balancing
devices at final set points.
j. Record final system data, prepare the report forms, and submit as required.

Note: Primary/Secondary/Tertiary systems are balanced in a similar manner.

9.6 BALANCING SPECIFIC SYSTEMS

The basic steps previously outlined form the foundation for balancing any hydronic distribution
system. In this subsection, additional or special balancing procedures are outlined for use in
balancing specific types of hydronic distribution systems.

9.6.1 Cooling Tower (Condenser Water) Systems

With an open condenser water pumping in operation, perform the following steps:

a. Verify that the construction team responsibilities for system installation and startup are
complete, as discussed in Section 3.2.
b. Conduct the basic pump testing and flow procedures as outlined previously.
c. Record the flow and/or inlet and outlet pressure of the tower piping if applicable. Check
against the manufacturer’s design information.
d. Verify proper water levels in the tower(s) sump, that the tower water make-up source is
functioning, and confirm that the flow through the spray headers or header distribution pans
is balanced.
e. When a tower bypass control is used in the condenser water piping at the tower, measure the
pressure difference with full water flow going both through the tower and/or through the
bypass line. Set the bypass line balancing value to maintain a constant pressure at the pump
discharge with control valve in either position.
f. After all final adjustments have been made, perform a final check of the hydronic pressures
and the flow of all pumps and equipment. Re-measure the voltage and amperage of pump
motors and record the data.
g. After all TAB work has been completed, set all memory stops and mark or score all balancing
devices at final set points.
h. Record final system data, prepare the report forms, and submit as required.

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9.6.2 Chilled Water Systems

a. Verify that the construction team responsibilities for system installation and startup are
complete, as discussed in Section 3.2.
b. With pump(s) off, observe and record the system static pressure at the pump(s).
c. Energize the pumping system.
d. Conduct the basic pump testing and flow procedures as outlined previously.
e. Determine the water flow through the evaporator, and condenser if present, using flow
meters, calibrated balancing valves, or pressure/temperature ports. If the measured
differential pressure is used, the flow data can be obtained from the manufacturer’s submittal
data curves or tables. Adjust the flow to design conditions and record the data.
f. After all final adjustments have been completed, perform a final check of the hydronic
pressures and the flow of all pumps and equipment. Re-measure the voltage and amperage of
pump motors and record the data.
g. After all TAB work has been completed, set all memory stops and mark or score all balancing
devices at final set points.
h. Record final system data, prepare the report forms, and submit as required.

9.6.3 Heat Exchangers and Boiler Systems

Energize the water heater or boiler pumping system and perform the following steps:

a. Verify that the construction team responsibilities for system installation and startup are
complete, as discussed in Section 3.2.
b. Conduct the basic pump testing and flow procedures as outlined previously.
c. Record the water flow and/or inlet and outlet pressures of the water heater(s) or boiler(s).
Check against the manufacturer’s design information.
d. When a temperature control valve is used in the water piping at the boiler to control heating
water loop temperature, measure the pressure difference with full water flow going both
through the boiler and/or through the bypass line. Set the bypass line balancing valve, if
present, to maintain a constant pressure at the pump discharge with the control valve in
either position.
e. After all final adjustments have been completed, perform a final check of the hydronic
pressures and the flow of all pumps and equipment. Re-measure the voltage and amperage of
pump motors and record the data.
f. After all TAB work has been completed, set all memory stops and mark or score all balancing
devices at final set points.
g. Record final system data, prepare the report forms, and submit as required.

9.6.4 Heat Transfer Components

Heat transfer components include but are not limited to heat exchangers, fin tube radiators, coils,
unit ventilators, etc.

a. Verify that the construction team responsibilities for system installation and startup are
complete, as discussed in Section 3.2.
b. Determine the water flow through all heat exchangers in all circuits using flow meters or
calibrated balancing valves. If the measured differential pressure must be used, the flow data
can be obtained from the manufacturer’s submittal data curves or tables.
c. Adjust the flow to design conditions at all heat transfer components as discussed in Section
9.5.

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d. After all final adjustments have been completed, perform a final check of the hydronic
pressures and the flow of all pumps and equipment.
e. After all TAB work has been completed, set all memory stops and mark or score all balancing
devices at final set points.
f. Record final system data, prepare the report forms, and submit as required.

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Section 10. SPECIAL SYSTEMS

10.1 CHILLED BEAM SYSTEMS

10.1.1 Chilled Beam

Chilled beams are hydronic coil heat transfer devices that are typically ceiling mounted, however
other mounting and location variations are available. This technology utilizes the concept that
hydronic system heat transfer is more efficient than air system heat transfer thus allowing for more
design flexibility. While referred to as chilled beams in this Standard and elsewhere in the industry,
they can also have heating water coils depending on the heat transfer requirements of the space
and the design of the system. Chilled beams are classified as passive or active depending on the
method of developing air flow across the coil. The temperature of chilled water supplied to ceiling
mounted chilled beams must be controlled to avoid reaching dew point at the cooling coil surface,
in order to prevent condensation formation during start-up, testing and normal operation.

10.1.2 Passive Chilled Beam

Passive chilled beams rely entirely on the natural convective properties air exhibits during the heat
transfer processes while providing for sensible load control in a zone. These devices are best
utilized in spaces with thermally stratified or near stratified conditions. Efficiency is adversely
affected by air discharge patterns across the face of the beam that cause interruptions or inhibit
the natural convection air flow process. Spacing, location, and ceiling heights are critical in the
performance capabilities of a passive chilled beam system. Volumetric testing and balancing is
limited to adjustments to the water flow through the hydronic coils as described in Section 9 of this
Standard.

10.1.3 Active Chilled Beam

Active chilled beams are ducted with supply air at a low moisture content through a series of
nozzles within the beam casing. A low pressure is created via the nozzles which induces secondary
airflow across the hydronic coils. Supply air can be delivered via traditional constant volume duct
systems or via terminal units for traditional zone control. The coils are designed for sensible heat
transfer only; however, due to the use of primary air with low moisture content these devices also
provide latent heat transfer due to the mixing of primary and secondary airstreams. The primary air
for these active chilled beams will typically have a high concentration of, or a complete make up of,
outside air and are therefore useful in distributing required ventilation air to a space. Heating can
be accomplished via in duct heating coils for the primary air, or via heating coils within the chilled
beam. Volumetric testing and balancing is conducted on the hydronic coils as described in Section 9
of this Standard, and for the primary air as described below.

10.1.4 Testing of Active Chilled Beam

a. Adjust the primary air fan using methods for constant or variable volume systems per Section
8 of this Standard. Determine total system volume by the most appropriate method. A duct
traverse is the preferred method. The sum of several traverses may be required.
b. Airflow at a chilled beam is calculated by measuring the static pressure at the specified
location, then computing the airflow via the manufacture’s published data. The design static
pressure and airflow will be shown on the manufacture’s submittal data for the various size
and type units on the project. This information will be verified by performing a duct traverse

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on a branch and/or zone for comparison to the airflow calculations of the chilled beams on
that branch and/or zone; this shall be done for each model/type chilled beam on the project.
Duct traverses should not be used to set or check primary airflow to an individual chilled
beam due to the low airflow and inherent errors that result from such low range
measurements of duct velocities. If discrepancies are discovered during the verification of the
airflow performance charts they need to be brought to the attention of the
construction/design team and noted within the TAB report testing descriptions.
c. Air volume controllers or inlet volume dampers are utilized in the proportional balancing of
individual chilled beams following the constant volume “ratio or stepwise” balancing methods
located within Section 8 of this Standard.
d. Direct measurement of chilled beam airflow with a capture device such as a flow hood is not a
practical or accurate method to determine either primary or total airflow performance of a
chilled beam.
e. Chilled beam performance criteria is specified by the manufacturer. Tolerances of +/-10% may
not be suitable for all applications. Confer with the design engineer on the percent variance
that will be acceptable for the satisfactory operation of the chilled beams.
f. Record final system data, prepare the report forms and submit as required. See Section 5 for
TAB reporting on both passive and active chilled beams.

10.2 STAIRWELL PRESSURIZATION TESTING

Stairwell pressurization systems are designed to provide a smoke proof enclosure and a means
egress during a smoke control event. Stairwell pressurization testing is conducted to verify that
shaft pressurization meets minimum requirements when the system is in operation. The local
authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) is the ultimate source of approved testing protocols. This section
is intended as a general guide procedure, to be used or modified as deemed appropriate by the
AHJ.

In new construction, testing of the stairwell system is to be conducted with the cooperation of the
construction team.

The EOR and the AHJ will specify the minimum pressure differentials to be achieved, as well as the
total number and locations of the pressure measurements to be performed. Complete the testing
as follows:

a. Verify the construction team responsibilities for system installation and startup as discussed in
Section 3 are complete.
b. Verify that all related building construction is complete. If these conditions are not present,
the test report will include a summary of test condition deficiencies. Stairwells shall be
complete with all doors and exit hardware in their final condition.
c. Determine whether the AHJ or EOR specifies testing with the stairwell exit door closed or
open. Testing with the exit door open simulates a real condition (i.e., occupants leaving a
building due to a smoke control event are unlikely to close the stairwell exit door behind
them).
d. Record unit nameplate data as described in Section 6.
e. Others shall start the shaft pressurization system. A smoke control event can usually be
started by applying canned smoke or a magnet to a smoke detector.
f. All shaft pressurization systems shall be operational at time of testing. Additionally, all other
HVAC systems shall be properly postured for a fire and smoke control event.
g. Take extra caution to avoid generating a false alarm call to the occupants or Fire Department.
h. Confirm that the fan rotation is correct.
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i. Measure fan motor amperage and voltage.

j. Verify that the motor is not overloaded.
k. Verify that all appropriate stairwell pressurization fans and dampers operate according to the
approved sequence of operation.
l. Measure the pressure(s) from the stairwell to the reference point(s) as specified by the AHJ
or the EOR.
m. Adjust the fan speed, if required, to change the shaft pressurization to meet specified
requirements.
n. Verify that the maximum door opening force does not exceed 30 pounds (13.6 kg) or a locally
specified value. Use an appropriate device to test door-opening forces.
o. If the stairwell is equipped with a relief damper(s), verify its operation and report
discrepancies.
p. Report the actual test conditions and results to the AHJ and EOR.

10.3 ELEVATOR PRESSURIZATION TESTING

Elevator pressurization systems are designed to provide a smoke proof enclosure during a smoke
control event. Elevator pressurization testing is conducted to verify that shaft pressurization meets
minimum requirements when the system is in operation. The local authority having jurisdiction
(AHJ) is the ultimate source of approved testing protocols. This section is intended as a general
guide procedure, to be used or modified as deemed appropriate by the AHJ and/or the design EOR.

In new construction, testing of the elevator pressurization system is to be conducted with the
cooperation of the construction team. The presence of the elevator contractor is required due to
the complexity of elevator systems. A preliminary test should be conducted before scheduling the
AHJ to witness a final test.

A review of minimum pressure differentials and locations of the pressure will be conducted by the
CP and the AHJ and/or the EOR. Complete the testing as follows:

a. Verify the construction team responsibilities for system installation and startup as discussed in
Section 3 are complete.
b. Verify that all related building construction is complete. If these conditions are not present,
the test report should include a summary of test condition deficiencies. Elevator systems shall
be complete.
c. Verify that the building shell is complete. Temporary closures of windows and doorways are
not acceptable.
d. Record unit nameplate data as described in Section 6.
e. Others shall start the shaft pressurization system. Applying canned smoke or a magnet to a
smoke detector can usually start a smoke control event.
f. All shaft pressurization systems shall be operational at the time of testing. Additionally, all
other HVAC systems shall be properly postured for a fire and smoke control event.
g. Ensure testing will not generate a false call to the fire department.
h. Confirm that the fan rotation is correct.
i. Measure fan motor amperage and voltage.
j. Verify that the motor is not overloaded.
k. Verify that all appropriate elevator pressurization fans operate. If isolation dampers are
present verify proper operation during the pressurization event.
l. Verify that all elevator cars in the tested shaft return to the recall floor, and remain there with
the doors open for the duration of the test.
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m. Measure the pressure(s) from the elevator shaft to the reference point(s) as required by the
AHJ. A pressure differential of 0.05 in. w.g. (12.5 Pa) from the elevator shaft to the reference
point is generally considered to be the minimum acceptable pressure difference or as
specified in the contract documents.
n. If required, adjust the fan speed to change the shaft pressurization to meet specified
requirements.
o. Report the actual test conditions and results to the AHJ and engineer of record.

10.4 MATERIAL HANDLING SYSTEMS

A second group of industrial exhaust air systems is used to remove and convey solid materials.
Sawdust, wood chips, paper trimmings, etc. are transported at high velocities through these
exhaust systems. These systems must be balanced so that velocities do not fall below
predetermined transport velocities. To prevent damage to test instruments, all testing is to be done
without materials being transported.

Balancing of these systems is done with blast gates, which are installed in lieu of dampers and are
used to temporarily shut off unused branches. In addition to velocity readings, static pressure
readings of the pressure differential between the room and the hood should be recorded in a
convenient reference point at each hood or intake device. This will permit easy future checks
designed to spot any deviation in exhaust volumes from original volumes. When balancing is
complete, score or mark all blast gates, so that the system balance can be restored if it is disturbed.

Warning: Some industrial exhaust air systems generate an extreme static electricity charge. Contact
the plant engineer or system operator to determine that the static electric charge has been
dissipated in order to protect yourself from shock and your test instruments from damage.

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Section 11. OUTDOOR AIR VENTILATION PROCEDURES

11.1 Introduction

The controlled introduction of outdoor air into a building’s HVAC system is a key element in
promoting building occupancy comfort optimizing energy costs. System designers determine the
appropriate amount of outdoor air to be introduced into a building’s HVAC system. Systems are
typically designed to operate with a scheduled minimum amount of outdoor air whenever the
building is occupied. (Note: Ventilation/outdoor air flow rates are established by ASHRAE Standard
62.1.)

The strategy for setting the outdoor air quantities will depend on the system design. Where
separate minimum and maximum outdoor air dampers are provided, begin the TAB work with the
minimum outdoor air dampers open and the maximum outdoor air dampers closed.

Determining the outdoor air quantity can be difficult. The quantities of outdoor air shall be
obtained by making a duct traverse of the outdoor air duct where possible. However, if the outdoor
air path is not suitable for direct measurement, there are alternative methods for determining
outdoor air quantities. These alternatives are discussed below.

11.2 Measurement Options

11.2.1 Direct Measurement Method

The preferred method of outdoor air measurement is direct, which may include but is not limited
to, duct traverse, velocity averaging grid, and airflow measuring station. When direct measurement
of the outdoor air path is not an option, then a duct traverse of the total supply minus the total
return air quantities is deemed acceptable.

11.2.2 Mixed Air Temperature Method

The mixed air temperature method may be used for setting outdoor air dampers to yield the
specified percentage of outdoor air. Often, mixed air temperature is very difficult to measure
accurately. With regard to this method, it’s important to note that air stratification within HVAC
units may inhibit accurate airflow temperature measurement. Mixed air temperatures may vary
considerably depending on where readings are taken. If it is determined that air stratification is
present, it would be necessary to take several temperature readings by performing a weighted
average temperature traverse.

Alternative methods for accurate mixed air temperatures should be considered. Using the Building
Automation System (BAS) after calibration should be considered as an alternative.

Accurate readings and large differentials between outdoor air and return air temperatures [over
20°F (12°C) ∆T] are essential to this method.

Equation 11-1 (U.S. and SI)

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

Equation 11-2 (U.S. and SI)

Equation 11-3 (U.S. and SI)

Where:
Tm = Temperature of Mixed Air
Tr = Temperature of Return Air
To = Temperature of Outside Air
Xo = Percentage of Outside Air
Xr = Percentage of Return Air

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

APPENDIX A: SAMPLE PRE-TAB CHECKLIST

NEBB has prepared a sample Pre-TAB Checklist. The NEBB Sample Pre-TAB Checklist is only a
Sample and should be customized to fit projects based on included equipment and systems.

The most recent version of the NEBB Sample Pre-TAB Checklist can be downloaded from the
www.nebb.org website and used by design professionals as needed.

APPENDIX B: SAMPLE TAB SPECIFICATIONS

NEBB has prepared a sample Testing, Adjusting and Balancing specification using the Master
Specification Format. The NEBB Sample Specification eliminates many of the ambiguities and
discrepancies found in various current specification formats.

The most recent version of the NEBB Sample Specification can be downloaded from the
www.nebb.org website and used by design professionals as needed.

APPENDIX C: SAMPLE TAB FORMS

NEBB has prepared a set of sample Testing, Adjusting and Balancing Forms in Excel format. Like the
Sample Pre-TAB Checklist and the Sample Specifications, forms should be customized and
completed based on specific project needs.

The most recent version of the NEBB Sample TAB Forms can be purchased and downloaded from
the www.nebb,org website and used by NEBB Certified Firms as needed.

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APPENDIX D: TEMPERATURES
Temperature Measurement –

SINGLE POINT
Single point temperature measurements are a recommendation for verifying simple system
operation. They are single point air temperature measurements for the purpose of ensuring that
systems are heating or cooling.

Air Temperature – Dry Bulb

Where a uniform profile exists, dry bulb temperature measurements may be as a single point
reading in the middle of the duct.

Air Temperature Traverses – Wet Bulb

As with dry bulb measurements, where a uniform profile exists, wet bulb temperature
measurements may be as simple as a single point reading in the middle of the duct. Additionally,
when the selected instrumentation is a wick-type psychrometer, the wick, or sock, must remain
continuously wetted with distilled water. The temperature of the water is to be the same
temperature as the dry bulb air temperature. Wet bulb readings must be taken over time to assure
that steady state conditions exist.

Temperature Measurement –

MULTI-POINT WEIGHTED-AVERAGE
Multi-Point Weighted-Average temperature measurements as described below are required only
when specified by the Engineer or when conditions require troubleshooting of uneven mixing.

The purpose of multi-point weighted-average temperature is to determine heat flow through

energy balance calculations.

Air Temperature – Dry Bulb

In systems with suspected poor mixing or temperature stratification, multiple readings must be
taken and weight-average analysed. All recorded data should be provided in the report, along with
the method used for averaging.

A weighted average means that the traverse would be weighted for the amount of air flowing, or
velocity, in each of the traverse grids. The measured temperature in each grid area would be
multiplied by the corresponding airflow or velocity in that area grid. The sum of all of the
temperature and airflow/velocity multiplications would then be divided by the total number of
points in the traverse and the total airflow/velocity.

Example:
A temperature traverse of a 20” x 16” (500mm x 400mm) duct is to be made. A 16-point equal area
traverse is performed. In Table 6.1, the measured temperatures (°F/°C) and corresponding
velocities (fpm/m/s) are recorded. In Table 6.1 the temperature and the velocities are not constant.
In Table6.2 the same temperatures are shown but with the idealized condition that each area has
the identical velocity/airflow.

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Air Temperature Traverses – Wet Bulb

As with dry bulb measurements, where a uniform profile exists, wet bulb temperature
measurements may be as simple as a single point reading in the middle of the duct. In systems with
suspected poor mixing or temperature stratification, multiple readings must be taken and then
averaged. Where a non-uniform profile exists, a temperature traverse and a corresponding velocity
traverse are made and the weighted average used as the resultant temperature. Additionally, when
the selected instrumentation is a wick-type psychrometer, the wick, or sock, must remain
continuously wetted with distilled water. The temperature of the water is to be the same
temperature as the dry bulb air temperature. Wet bulb readings must be taken over time to assure
that steady state conditions exist.

Table 6.1 Variable Temperature and Airflow Velocities

POSITION A B C D
Temperature 100° / 38° 90° / 32° 90° / 32° 90° / 32°
1
Velocity 1000 / 5.0 900 / 4.5 900 / 4.5 850 / 4.3

Temperature 105° / 41° 100° / 38° 90° / 32° 90° / 32°

2
Velocity 1100 / 5.5 1000 / 0.5 850 / 4.3 850 / 4.3

Temperature 110° / 43° 100° / 38° 95° / 35° 95° / 35°

3
Velocity 1200 / 6.0 1100 / 5.5 900 / 4.5 900 / 4.5

Temperature 110° / 43° 100° / 38° 90° / 32° 90° / 32°

4
Velocity 1300 / 6.5 1200 / 6.0 1000 / 0.5 900 / 4.5
Weighted Average Temperature 97.74°F / 36.52°C

Table 6.2 Variable Temperature and Airflow Velocities

POSITION A B C D
Temperature 100° / 38° 90° / 32° 90° / 32° 90° / 32°
1
Velocity 1000 / 5.0 1000 / 5.0 1000 / 5.0 1000 / 5.0

Temperature 105° / 41° 100° / 38° 90° / 32° 90° / 32°

2
Velocity 1100 / 5.0 1000 / 5.0 1000 / 5.0 1000 / 5.0

Temperature 110° / 43° 100° / 38° 95° / 35° 95° / 35°

3
Velocity 1000 / 5.0 1000 / 5.0 1000 / 5.0 1000 / 5.0

Temperature 110° / 43° 100° / 38° 90° / 32° 90° / 32°

4
Velocity 1000 / 5.0 1000 / 5.0 1000 / 5.0 1000 / 5.0
Weighted Average Temperature 96.56°F / 35.87°C

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Procedural Standard for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems

Hydronic Temperature Measurements

Hydronic temperatures are made by either of the following methods: insertion of a probe in
pressure/temperature ports (P/T ports), immersion wells in the piping, or surface temperatures.
Surface measurements should only be used on highly conductive materials such as steel or copper
pipe when measuring the differential temperature. The piping surface must be clean and free of
rust or other oxidized surfaces. Immersion wells shall be of the proper length and installed in the
proper method to ensure accuracy. Most wells should be placed into the end of a tee fitting so that
the fluid must pass directly over the well before leaving out the branch outlet of the tee. Wells
installed on the branch side of a tee are to be avoided.

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