Getting your ducts in order

“Sealing a Money Leak” (Oct. 23) was misleading [because the story used an example that does not reflect what normal duct testing and sealing costs]. The article stated that Larry and Donna-Marie Acker spent $15,000 to replace their existing duct system. The Ackers had the misfortune of purchasing a home with an inadequately designed heating and air-conditioning system.

To correct the inadequacies, a new forced-air furnace and cooling coil were purchased and the location of equipment was changed from an indoor closet to the attic space. [This] involved installing a new electrical circuit, refrigerant piping, natural gas piping, an attic light, enlarging the attic access, a working platform and structural relocation of the roof rafters. When all was done, the ductwork was installed and tested.

What homeowners must know: The California Energy Commission states that beginning Oct. 1, 2005, you must have your home’s ducts tested for leaks when you have a central air conditioner or furnace installed or replaced. Ducts that leak 15% or more must be repaired to reduce the leaks. After your contractor tests and fixes the ducts, you choose whether to have an approved third-party field verifier check to make sure the duct testing and sealing were done properly or to have your house included in a random sample where one in seven duct systems is checked. There are exemptions. Visit www.energy.ca.gov/title24/changeout for details.

The greatest energy use in California homes is for central air conditioning and heating. The average home’s ducts leak about 30% of the conditioned air outside the home. These leaks are taking money straight out of your pocketbook.

Any contractor failing to obtain a required building permit and failing to test and repair your ducts is violating the law and exposing you to additional costs and liability.

As president of the Institute of Heating and Air Conditioning Industries Inc., a nonprofit trade organization established in 1948, I can assure you that there are reputable contractors who make customer service and satisfaction their top priority. And, they will abide by the laws of California that protect residents.

MICHAEL CARSON

Northridge