HVAC Commissioning Checklist
For: Commissioning agents, mechanical inspectors, building engineers, MEP designers
A new HVAC system that "turns on and blows air" is not a commissioned system. Commissioning verifies every zone, every sequence of operation, every sensor reads accurately, and the design intent matches measured performance. This checklist covers the functional performance tests that AHJs and owner-side commissioning agents verify.
References: ASHRAE Guideline 0 · ASHRAE Guideline 1.1 · NEBB Procedural Standards · AABC National Standards
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Equipment Pre-Start
All filters installed, MERV rating matches spec
Belts and pulleys aligned, tension within mfg spec
Refrigerant lines insulated, no kinks, isolation valves accessible
Condensate drains sloped, P-traps installed, secondary drain tested
Electrical disconnects within sight of equipment, fused per nameplate
Air Distribution
TAB (Test, Adjust, Balance) report on file for every air system
NEBB or AABC standard
Each diffuser delivers ±10% of design CFM
Each return air grille within ±10% design return CFM
Outside air damper operates per economizer sequence
Duct leakage tested at <5% of system airflow per SMACNA
Controls & Sequences
Thermostats calibrated, read within ±1°F of reference
Occupancy schedules programmed per owner requirements
Setback/setup operates correctly during unoccupied hours
Economizer changeover at design temperature
Demand-controlled ventilation (CO2) responds correctly
Override switches operate, time-out as designed
Refrigeration / Hydronic
Refrigerant charge verified by superheat / subcooling per mfg
Hydronic system flushed + filled, no air at high points
Pump curves verified — flow + head match design point
Heat exchangers free of fouling, ΔT within design
Documentation
O&M manuals delivered, electronic copies accessible
Owner training completed, attendance signed
Warranty start dates recorded, contact info posted
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