Utah Energy Education

October 31, 2024

Introduction
Energy codes provide multiple benefits, including reduced costs for property owners in the form of lower energy bills, increased temperature control for optimal comfort and helping the state conserve local resources. Energy codes also act as a vital benchmark for ensuring that new and existing buildings consume energy efficiently, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions…

2021 IECC & IRC: DUCT SEALING

July 17, 2024

True or False: Duct sealing is not important when the duct is inside the thermal envelope, as there is no leakage to outside.

Hopefully your response is False. Over the past several years, Mitch Richardson with Building Science West have tested duct systems in at least six problem homes where the duct system leakage rate was excessive to the point that they could not attain the 25-pascal test pressure…

IS A RETURN AIR INLET REQUIRED IN EVERY BEDROOM?

June 14, 2024

A Building Inspector recently called asking for clarification on the requirement for return air inlets in bedrooms. The HVAC contractor insists a 1” to 1-1/2” space under the door will provide a path back to return air inlets in virtually every residential application…

DUCT LEAKAGE TESTING

June 14, 2024

Duct leakage testing, or duct blaster testing, is required for new duct systems installed outside the thermal envelope of a home. The current amended Utah energy code requires duct leakage testing for residential HVAC systems with air handlers and those with at least 20% of their duct system (measured by length) located in an attic, crawlspace or outside…