How to measure HVAC Air Flow

HVAC systems are essential in regulating heat, airflow, air-conditioning and ventilation of commercial and residential buildings. A significant function of the HVAC system is improving the quality of air in a building – a factor that directly affects the health and productivity levels of those residing within. It reduces the amount of humidity to a level that is comfortable and safe. The HVAC systems are a worthy investment as they contribute to energy savings in the long run. In this article, Crosstown Plumbing, a leading plumbing supplies wholesaler in New Jersey, explains how to measure HVAC air flow.

ASHRAE Standards

The standards and guidelines prescribed by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) are a good place to start when measuring the airflow in your HVAC system. ASHRAE Standard 41.2 offers information regarding air velocity and airflow measurement, specifically.

According to the guidelines, the accuracy of airflow measurement is largely dependent on the location of said measurement. Thus, the airflow transducer must be placed:

• 7.5 duct diameters downstream
• 3 duct diameters upstream from any obstructions.

Another recommendation while measuring is to steer clear of bends or junctions in the ducts. Turbulence from fans or other machinery can also affect the accuracy of the measurement.

Parameters of measuring a HVAC system

Indoor air quality

Reports suggest that approximately 3.8 million people die due to household air pollution globally every year. With alarming statistics such as this one, it is imperative that indoor air quality is tested and in line with international safety standards. Adequate ventilation, eliminating pollutants, and comfortable humidity levels are essential when measuring indoor air quality.

It is recommended to use indoor air quality sensors to detect the presence of contaminants such as carbon monoxide, particulate matter, VOCs, formaldehyde, and radon.

Ventilation systems

Evaluating the airflow and velocity of a ventilation system offers an insight into the overall balance of a commercial or residential building. Experts use an anemometer to measure the average air speed in a ventilation system. This measurement is then multiplied by the area of the duct in square feet to understand how air is flowing through the duct.

Heating and cooling systems

There are several instruments that are used to measure flow and surface temperature of heating and cooling systems, which in turn, determine the hydroponic balance of the system. This balance, which is directly correlated to thermal comfort, avoids the building from over- and under-heating or over- and under-cooling.

To understand more about the working, maintenance, and measurement of an HVAC system, contact Crosstown Plumbing today.

We are the trusted wholesale suppliers of HVAC parts, ductless mini-splits, humidifiers, central air-conditioning and much more.

Originally posted https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/how-to-measure-hvac-air-flow/

Experience wholesale plumbing supplies with a difference

Plumbers and contractors are always in the market for the best products at the best prices, which is why many prefer wholesale plumbing supplies. A wholesaler is a company that sells goods in large quantities and usually at low prices to retailers, and some wholesalers are open to the public or professionals within the industry. 

Many wholesalers also have showrooms and exclusive offers, giving people a much broader selection than they’d find in a traditional retail store. Plumbers and homeowners alike will find the broadest selections, industry-leading brands, and knowledgeable staff who can help with a variety of plumbing projects and other home renovation projects.

The benefits of an experienced plumbing wholesaler

Knowledgeable staff

Plumbing supply wholesalers are experts in their industry, and many staff are licensed plumbers themselves. They have years of experience, they can help you find rare parts and assist you with even the most obscure jobs, and they can share their own experience working on similar projects. 

When you buy your plumbing supplies from a traditional retailer, you enter the store, purchase the part(s) you need, then leave. Visiting a plumbing wholesaler is a different experience because the staff can make recommendations for the job you’re working on, suggest better alternatives, and help source all of the parts you need.

The broadest selection

Because wholesalers often sell to retailers, you’ll find a massive selection of parts and tools, both new and second-hand. Most plumbing supply wholesalers have a wide range of boilers, hot water heaters, burners, air conditioners, humidifiers, air filtration systems, and other HVAC components. You can also find kitchen and bathroom components like cabinetry, granite countertops, sinks, and baths. 

Visiting a wholesaler’s showroom can be quite an experience, because you’ll find a much bigger and more diverse selection than you will at a traditional retail store. Plumbers and contractors alike often prefer to shop at wholesalers because they know they’ll find the best parts and tools in the industry.

For more information about our wholesale plumbing supplies, or if you have any questions, please contact our team at Crosstown Plumbing today.

Discover why so many industry professionals choose us as their trusted wholesale plumbing supplier in NJ.