UFAD air leakage testing
Air permeability testing in conformance with BSRIA Guide BG 65/2016.
BSRIA Guide BG 65/2016 sets a maximum recommended leakage rate for underfloor air distribution (UFAD) installations.
Tackling air leakage within a UFAD installation represents an important method to improve the energy efficient operation of the system (and consequently the carbon footprint), and ensure the system operates effectively in supplying a comfortable environment for building occupants.
Air permeability testing is the method used to analyse the level that air is lost through the UFAD system. This test, which is sometimes referred to as air leakage testing or air pressure testing, gives a result expressed as a quantity of air leakage (litres per second) per square metre of floor area, measured at 50Pa.
BSRIA Guide BG 65/2016 sets two performance criteria: one for the amount of leakage through the walls and base of the plenum; and one for the amount of leakage through the raised access floor. The guide also sets out the testing methodology for each of these tests.
Site requirements
The floor plenum should be tested after the installation of services that penetrate the walls and floor of the plenum, but prior to the installation of services that penetrate the raised access floor. It should also be tested before any carpets have been laid.
All HVAC systems serving the plenum, adjacent spaces, or ductwork that passes through the plenum should be switched off for the duration of the test. Duct outlets within the plenum should be temporarily sealed.
For the purpose of measuring the plenum leakage rate all joints in the raised access floor, floor-to-wall joints and electrical boxes should be temporarily sealed for the duration of the test. Taping these on a large floor area can be time-consuming.
Grilles and diffusers should be temporarily sealed or be replaced by floor tiles for the duration of the test.
For the purpose of measuring leakage through the raised access floor any temporary seals should be removed (with the exception of duct outlets, grilles and diffusers).
The raised access floor should be free from obstructions for the duration of the test.
Common leakage points within a UFAD system
Gaps between raised access floor tiles.
Penetrations through the walls not adequately sealed (e.g. around pipes and cables).
Conduit junction boxes not sealed.
Air leakage through permeable blockwork or poorly jointed masonry below raised access floor level.
Plasterboard on studs not sealed properly at board edges and at the ends below raised access floor level.
Risers not properly sealed from plenums.
Poor sealing between barriers and slab or barriers and underside of raised access floor.
Missing sections of barrier or damage to barriers not repaired.
Poor sealing beneath ducts penetrating through plenum walls.
Air leakage through expansion joints in concrete floors.
What happens in the event of a fail?
In the event the UFAD system does not achieve the required level of air tightness, our test engineers will work with the site team to identify leakage points and provide guidance on how these should be addressed. The most effective method of identifying leakage points is to undertake a smoke test of the plenum.
Why choose Achieve Green?
We are members of the Air Tightness Testing and Measurement Association (ATTMA), and hold a “level 2” accreditation for air permeability testing: a requirement for BSRIA Guide BG 65/2016 testing.
All of our test engineers are qualified, experienced and CSCS certified.
We fit around you, attending site at a time that is convenient and producing a test report within two working days.
We shall provide guidance and support throughout the construction process.
By using an ISO 9001 accredited organisation such as ours, you can be confident in receiving a consistently high quality of service.
COMPETITIVE
Fast and accurate assessments at a competitive price.
EXPERIENCED
Comprehensive advice and support to ensure you arrive at the most economic and feasible solution to achieve compliance.
QUALIFIED
You can take comfort that the certificates we provide will be accepted as evidence for Building Regulations sign-off.
VALUE
Best quality advice, at a price that offers real value for money.
Testimonials
We are an RIBA Chartered Architectural Practice based on the South Coast, and have used the services of the Achieve Green team in Tunbridge Wells on countless projects over many years, mainly for the preparation of SAP calculations but also energy statements and air pressure testing across a broad range of projects. They have offered us invaluable practical advice on more complex projects to ensure compliance with the ever evolving statutory standards and we have always found them to provide a prompt, efficient, friendly and cost effective service and would not hesitate to recommend them.
Lightbox Architecture Limited
We have found the Achieve Green team to be highly experienced, specialised and competent. Advice is constructive and their approach to projects is strategic, ensuring the most effective solutions are taken forward. The team has a comprehensive understanding of planning requirements and appreciates how these translate into technical and on-site delivery. We highly recommend the team and look forward to working with them on forthcoming projects.
Kitewood Estates Ltd
As a business we have been involved with Achieve Green for a number of years. Their proactive involvement in our projects from design through to completion has enabled us to continually improve the energy efficiency of all our homes. The prompt and efficient service has meant they have become an integral part of our design team.
Panfile Ltd
I have been working with Jonathan and his Achieve Green team in Tunbridge Wells since 2011 on a range of projects from Schools, new build housing to straightforward extensions. They are very knowledgeable and efficient and have provided invaluable input to projects over the years ensuring that as a designer I can put forward the most cost effective solutions to complying with Part L.I always recommend Jonathan if ever anybody is in need of SAP and compliance testing services.
Bradbury Design Ltd