Most of our company’s work consists of installing and maintaining forced-air systems. We also consult with builders and homeowners to test and balance new hvac systems. This balancing work has led us to the conclusion that the vast majority of residential forced-air systems are poorly designed and installed. Even new homes often suffer from oversized equipment, oversized or undersized ducts, and leaky duct connections. Most builders leave the design of their forced-air systems to their subcontractor. But it’s the builder who is ultimately responsible for the performance of the forced-air equipment. If the equipment has been oversized or was never properly commissioned at start-up, liability for any mechanical problems falls on the builder’s shoulders. One additional factor in builder liability is the
