What pressure pan reading in pascals indicates a need to recommend air sealing of ducts and penetrations?

A pressure pan reading above 3 pascals indicates a potential issue with air leakage in duct systems and other penetrations. When assessing duct performance, this threshold is significant because it reflects the degree of air pressure imbalance, which can lead to conditioned air escaping from the system.

If the pressure reading is above 3 pascals, it suggests that the ductwork and surrounding spaces are not adequately sealed, making air sealing a necessary recommendation. This is crucial because air leaks can significantly reduce the energy efficiency of a building, increase heating and cooling costs, and affect indoor comfort levels.

Moreover, maintaining appropriate sealed conditions in ductwork ensures better air distribution, reduces dust and allergens entering the living space, and improves the overall performance of heating and cooling systems. Therefore, a reading above 3 pascals is an essential guideline for determining when to recommend air sealing interventions.