What is measured during a duct leakage test in HVAC systems?

In a duct leakage test, the primary focus is on quantifying the amount of air escaping from the ductwork. This testing is critical in assessing the performance and efficiency of HVAC systems because leaks in ductwork can lead to significant energy losses. When air escapes from ducts, the desired conditioned air does not reach the intended spaces, which can result in higher energy bills and discomfort in the living environment.

Sealing these leaks can improve system efficiency, overall comfort, and indoor air quality. So, measuring the leakage helps identify problem areas within the duct system, guiding improvements that can optimize HVAC performance.

The other options do not align with the primary objective of the duct leakage test. For instance, measuring energy consumption relates to the efficiency of the system but does not directly indicate how well the ductwork is performing. Similarly, the aesthetics of duct installation and the size of the ductwork are important considerations for effective HVAC design and implementation, but they do not address the functional aspect of air leakage directly. Therefore, focusing on the air escaping lends vital insights into the overall integrity of the HVAC system and its ability to deliver conditioned air effectively.