Measuring Dryer Exhaust Duct Performance
For HVAC professionals looking to expand their services, dryer vent cleaning is a valuable addition. A critical component of this service is to test that the dryer exhaust duct system is operating safely and efficiently. This is where NADCA’s Dryer Exhaust Duct Performance (DEDP) Standard comes into play.
The DEDP Standard is a detailed checklist of performance measurements designed to ensure residential single-dryer exhaust duct systems operate at peak performance. Developed by NADCA, this standard allows HVAC technicians to assess the condition of dryer vent systems and address inefficiencies that could lead to potential fire hazards, reduced dryer performance, or increased energy consumption.
The DEDP Standard provides guidelines for:
- Testing duct performance and static pressure to ensure the system is functioning correctly.
- Validating performance in new residential installations or previously inspected ducts.
- Communicating findings to customers about any conditions that may be impacting dryer performance.
It’s important to know that the test should only be done on dryer ducts that have been visually inspected and confirmed to be clean. The testing method relies on a pressurized blower to check if the dryer exhaust duct is working properly. This process provides contractors and customers with clear, measurable results to identify potential performance issues.
While video inspections may be used to verify cleanliness, they don’t replace the actual performance tests outlined in the standard, which measure whether the system is moving enough air despite factors like flexible transitions, leaky ducts, or other complications. If performance issues arise, a video inspection can help pinpoint the cause.
Following the DEDP Standard sets your business apart by providing measurable results to the customer as a value-add to your services. Check the appendix of the standard for more details on issues that might affect performance, documents, and other important resources.