Tab Journal Membership Directory Resource Center Tech Talk Commissioning Group Member Login		TOTAL SYSTEM BALANCE   Total System Balance (TSB) is AABC’s process of testing, adjusting, and balancing the heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and subsystems to perform at the design intent and operate at an optimum level. This process includes review of the design documents for balanceability, construction observation, and a methodical approach to test and balance all systems to their optimal performance with verifiable test results. To perform Total System Balancing, the test and balance (TAB) agency begins the process in the design stage by reviewing the documents for balanceability and interfaces with the design team. During the construction stage, the TAB agency makes field observation reports, reviews submitted data, and prepares for the testing and balancing phase. After the equipment start-up has been performed, and all systems are operational (including clean filters being installed, diffusers and grilles installed, all control components 100% operational, etc), the TAB firm can begin the TAB phase. During testing and balancing, the TAB agency tests and balances each system and subsystem, including the control system, and documents the results of each test. If acceptable performance cannot be achieved because of system or construction deficiencies, the test data will be documented in writing to the appropriate responsible parties, so that corrective action can be taken. Following the completion of TAB field services, a test and balance report should be submitted to the engineer and project owner. The final TAB report should be a complete record of the HVAC system performance, including conditions of operation, items outstanding, and any deviations found during the TAB process. The final report also provides a reference of actual operating conditions for the owner and/or service personnel. During the occupancy stage, the Engineer reviews, verifies, and accepts the TAB report. Test and balance services should be performed by trained professionals with the technical expertise to perform these services, and knowledge of HVAC systems and components in order to identify and troubleshoot problems that could impact balanceability of the system. To ensure the most complete and comprehensive test and balance services, specify that a certified member of AABC performs the TAB work. Additional information on testing and balancing of various systems can be found in the AABC National Standards for Total System Balance (2002).

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