TinnerFlow logoTinnerFlow™
Apprentice Q&A · #171

Where exactly should I drill the test holes for the balancer in the main trunk line?

4th YearTAB / Startup PrepYELLOW · Check First

Locate a flat, straight section of the primary supply or return air trunk line that sits at least 7 to 10 straight duct diameters downstream from any primary fan discharge or major elbow fitting. * Drill a neat row of test ports (sized to accept a standard 3/8-inch or 1/2-inch pitot tube probe) spaced uniformly across the face width of the metal to allow the balancer to perform an accurate cross-sectional traverse reading.

Search Field RescueOpen in Q&A search

Plain-English answer

Locate a flat, straight section of the primary supply or return air trunk line that sits at least 7 to 10 straight duct diameters downstream from any primary fan discharge or major elbow fitting. * Drill a neat row of test ports (sized to accept a standard 3/8-inch or 1/2-inch pitot tube probe) spaced uniformly across the face width of the metal to allow the balancer to perform an accurate cross-sectional traverse reading.

Field checklist

Ask Foreman

Hey boss, I’m checking tab / startup prep: Where exactly should I drill the test holes for the balancer in the main trunk line? I found the likely issue and want to verify the next step before I lock it in. Do you want me to adjust it now or check the drawing/detail first?

Open Ask Foreman

Verify before acting

Use this as training guidance. The foreman, approved drawings, project specs, manufacturer installation instructions, employer safety policy, and AHJ/code requirements always control the final answer.

Related questions

Related Field Rescue routes

Related mistakes & recovery checks