Duct System Improvements

Leaky ducts in the average apartment unit may allow more than 30% of cooling to escape. A duct system diagnostic inspection and test can identify necessary repairs that may qualify for a rebate, including:

• Replacing or improving the duct system
• Sealing leaky duct returns, supply buckets, and air handlers for AC systems with
  • Uncased fan coils
  • Electric upflow, horizontal, electric-cased fan or heat pump systems
  • Gas heat or stud-mounted air handlers

A duct system analysis consists of diagnostic pressure tests using a basic duct blower. Only approved participating contractors that are BPI certified may do the work.

Call a participating contractor who is approved to do this work in multifamily properties to schedule a duct system diagnostic inspection and test.

Financing is Available

Affordable, long-term financing is available to cover the cost for energy efficiency, water conservation, and onsite generation technologies.

Learn more about PACE Financing

Duct Sealing and Remediation — Rebate ranges from $80 to $100 per Ton when final duct leakage is equal to or less than 15%.

Plenum Redesign and Remediation — Rebate ranges from $335 to $350 per Plenum when final duct leakage is equal to or less than 20%.

Download the Multifamily Rebate Program Summary (pdf) for details

Program Requirements

• Guidelines and Requirements: Multifamily Standard Rebates (pdf)
• Guidelines and Requirements: Multifamily Income Qualified Rebates (pdf)

Specific Requirements

• Property must be at least 10 years old (based on date of Certificate of Occupancy)
• The total system air flow loss must be 30% or higher for uncased fan coil units (a.k.a. furred down units) or 25% or greater for all other air handler units.
• Only approved products to be used for envelope air infiltration work. Weatherization products must be permanent, and all caulking products must be guaranteed for a minimum of 25 years. The use of silicone acrylic and pure silicone caulk is encouraged.
• All new ducts must be R-8, as determined by Air Diffusion Council guidelines, local codes, and must be UL listed.
• Sealing materials shall have excellent cohesive and adhesive qualities and shall conform to the latest NFPA 90-B Warm Air and Air Conditioning system standards
• An inspection will be conducted for biological growth, water leaks, water damage, and breaches in the surfaces of the isolated space before sealing. Repairs will be completed before duct work can begin.
• Health and safety concerns for occupants and workers, in relation to repairs and materials, will be addressed in accordance with OSHA standards (OSHA 1926, 1910).

Participating Contractor Required for Rebate

Austin Energy requires that you use an Austin Energy participating contractor to qualify for this rebate. Participating contractors meet Austin Energy requirements for licensure, insurance, workmanship, and equipment.

Comply with ECAD to Qualify for Rebate

If your multifamily property is 10 years or older and located within the Austin city limits, you must be in compliance with the Energy Conservation Audit and Disclosure (ECAD) ordinance before receiving a rebate check. ECAD promotes energy efficiency by identifying potential energy savings for your property.

Properties that have not completed an ECAD audit are eligible to receive a rebate (capped at $2,500) to cover the audit cost. Get ECAD audit rebate details