Air balancing is testing, adjusting, and balancing (TAB) commercial air conditioning and ventilation systems. The need for balancing first came in the early 1980's when new and more advanced A/C systems were being developed and installed. As these systems began to get more complex, the need for balancing increased. Most companies were not equipped to handle the TAB inspections. Independent TAB companies were created to handle these tasks.

Balancing Tasks:

• Set up the amount of airflow that is distributed from each air diffuser.
• Measure total airflow on all A/C and exhaust systems.
• Balance airflow on each supply and exhaust grille.
• Measure volts, amps, statics, RPM's, temperatures, and set minimum outside air requirements on all A/C units.
• Balance water flow on all pumps, cooling towers, chillers, boilers, and air handling unit coils.
• Sound and vibration if required.
• Air quality measurements if required.

In the past few years, a new aspect of air balancing has surfaced. It is called HVAC Commissioning. Commissioning begins in the design phase of the HVAC system. It is vital to have a design that will result in a facility that can be maintained and operated by the owner without difficulty. The balancing company would work with the design team reviewing the operation, maintenance, and testing of the systems to be installed in the building. For more information about commissioning please visit Universal Commissioning Group (UCxG).