Air balancing
We measure the airflow at every diffuser, grille and fan, adjust the system until it matches the design, and give you a report that proves it.
When you need it
- A new building or tenant fit-out is nearing turnover and the engineer needs a balance report.
- Occupants say some rooms are too hot, too cold, stuffy or drafty.
- Equipment, ductwork or the floor layout has changed since the system was last balanced.
- You’re preparing for commissioning, an energy retrofit or LEED documentation.
What we do
Review
We go through the drawings, specifications, equipment submittals and control sequences, and flag anything that will stop the system reaching design before we arrive.
Inspect and test
We confirm dampers, filters, belts and controls are in working order, then measure fan performance and the airflow at every terminal with calibrated instruments.
Adjust
We set volume dampers, terminal unit minimums and maximums, fan speeds and drive settings to bring each reading within the specified tolerance.
Verify and report
We re-measure, record final readings against design, and list anything that couldn’t be corrected and why.
What you receive
- Design and measured airflow for every terminal, fan and air handler
- Fan data: speed, static pressure, motor current and drive settings
- Outstanding deficiencies, with the cause and a recommended fix
- A list of the instruments used and their calibration dates
Questions
How close to design does the airflow need to be?
The project specification sets the tolerance. For air terminals it’s commonly within ±10% of design. We report every reading against that tolerance so the engineer can see exactly where the system stands.
Can you balance a building that’s already occupied?
Yes. Most of the work happens in the ceiling space and at the diffusers. We plan it around the people using the building, and most rooms are only disturbed briefly.
Why not have the installing contractor balance the system?
An independent balance report gives the engineer and owner a check on the installation, rather than the installer grading their own work. Many specifications require the balancing agency to be independent of the mechanical contractor for that reason.
Further reading
- Air density, altitude and HVAC design in Calgary and the Rockies
Learn how elevation changes air density, which HVAC calculations and selections need correction, and what to check when designing, balancing or commissioning systems in Calgary and mountain communities.
- Psychrometrics for HVAC engineers: a practical guide
Learn the properties of moist air, how to read a psychrometric chart, and how to use psychrometric processes and equations to size coils, check humidity and troubleshoot systems.
- Units and conversions every HVAC engineer uses
A practical reference for the units and conversion factors used daily in Canadian HVAC work, with the core air and water heat equations and tips to avoid common unit mistakes.
- Zoning a commercial building for HVAC
Learn how to group spaces into thermal zones that can be controlled properly, how zoning affects comfort and energy use, and the mistakes that cause persistent hot and cold complaints.
- Air handling unit components and configurations
Learn what each section of an air handling unit does, how common configurations compare, and what owners and designers should check for performance, freeze protection and maintenance.
- Diffuser and grille selection for comfort and low noise
A practical guide to choosing diffusers and grilles that mix air well, avoid drafts and stay quiet, including throw, ADPI, NC ratings and common mistakes.
Related services
Also in testing, adjusting and balancing: Water balancing (hydronic), Duct leakage testing, Control system verification, Residential air balancing.
Get a quote for air balancing (TAB)
Tell us about the building and what you need. We’ll be in touch within one hour.