Testing, adjusting, balancing
HVAC Testing, Adjusting and Balancing (TAB) are the three major steps used to achieve proper operation of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems. TAB usually refers to commercial building construction and the specialized contractors who employ personnel that perform this service. In general, the TAB specialist performs air and hydronic measurements on the HVAC systems and adjusts the flows as required to achieve optimum performance of the building environmental equipment. The balancing is usually based upon the design flow values required by the Mechanical Engineer for the project, and the TAB contractor submits a written report which summarizes the testing and balancing and notes any deficiencies found during the TAB work. Ensure that your TAB contractor holds a current professional certification. See NBC, AABC, NEBB, TABB, or NBCTA.
Testing
Testing is the use of specialized and calibrated instruments to measure temperatures, pressures, rotational speeds, electrical characteristics, velocities, and air and water quantities for an evaluation of equipment and system performance.
Adjusting
Adjusting is the final setting of balancing devices such as dampers and valves, adjusting fan speeds and pump impeller sizes, in addition to automatic control devices such as thermostats and pressure controllers to achieve maximum specified system performance and efficiency during normal operation.
Balancing
Balancing is the methodical regulation of system fluid flows (air or water) through the use of acceptable procedures to achieve the desired or specified airflow or water flow.
References
- Manual for Air & Hydronic Systems Testing, Adjusting and Balancing, 4.2, 2014, Published by The National Balancing Council, NBC
- Procedural Standards for Testing Adjusting Balancing of Environmental Systems, seventh edition, 2005, Published by NEBB
- PROCEDURAL STANDARDS FOR TESTING ADJUSTING AND BALANCING OF ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS 2013 Eight Edition is available for public comment