Why and How to Become “Certified Duct Surgeons™”

Step 2 – The Surgical Approach

After applying the above testing methods and successfully improving systems with NCI’s Air Upgrade™ approach, you will be ready to move up to Duct System Optimization. It’s through this step that your field people truly begin to become Duct Surgeons.

The training methodically walks you through how to test, diagnose, and identify duct deficiencies that impact performance.

It’s more than just finding and fixing leaky or poorly insulated ducts. It’s learning how to test for and identify restrictions, sizing issues, filtration issues, even grille and register problems.

You then apply optimization techniques that fix the issues while taking into account the effects of repairs on the rest of the system.

Here’s just one simple example: Through testing you identify a restricted, undersized return. Once you fix that issue, the increased return airflow might cause the supply static pressure to increase, thus actually reducing airflow, or with a Constant torque motor, send Watt draw through the roof, causing air noise issues, etc.

Without proper testing techniques, and applying pressure budgets you could miss this consequence after you sold the job. There is nothing worse than having to go back and fix it again – typically at your cost. It’s hard to tell your customer you goofed and that will cost them more.

There are many similar situations that can be avoided when you understand how repairs can cause unintended consequences if the system is not looked at in its entirety. That’s why the right training and the right tools are so important. You can’t shortcut this learning by watching a few online videos.

Next Steps To High-Performance HVAC

Once you’ve mastered Duct System Optimization you can move up to higher disciplines including Air Balancing, and Residential System Performance. This training ties the equipment and duct system performance together so you can deliver the right amount of proven, verified Btus to every register and room in a home.

These improvements can help keep a home safe, healthy, comfortable, and energy efficient. This is the true definition of a High-Performance HVAC System.

Remember, it’s the journey, not the destination. Once you start to look at systems differently, you will want to more deeply explore the “load” side of the system.” This includes HVAC design and a better understanding of building construction elements.

Your path will also lead to house sealing and insulation to help improve overall performance and system sizing. It doesn’t mean you have to do that part yourself , unless you want to. There are plenty of ways to partner with companies that specialize in that.

The key to not getting overwhelmed is taking one baby step at a time. Build on your knowledge, and you will become unstoppable!