In the United States, where building codes, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality have become top priorities, the balometer has emerged as a vital tool for HVAC professionals, facility managers, and commissioning agents.
With ventilation under scrutiny post-pandemic, and as ASHRAE standards grow stricter, real-time airflow measurement isn’t just best practice anymore. It’s non-negotiable.
Why airflow measurement matters more than ever
Whether it’s a hospital, a school, a government office, or a high-rise building, air balancing directly impacts occupant comfort, energy consumption, and regulatory compliance. Improper airflow can lead to hot and cold spots, poor indoor air quality, increased disease transmission, or overworked HVAC systems that rack up utility bills.
But you can’t balance what you don’t measure. That’s where the balometer comes in.
What is a balometer, and what does it do?
A balometer is a portable device used to measure the volume of air coming from supply and return vents. It gives quick, accurate readings of airflow in cubic feet per minute (CFM), helping professionals test and balance HVAC systems in real time.
The TSI® Alnor® EBT731 Balometer® Capture Hood is one of the most advanced on the market. With wireless communication, intuitive menus, and high-accuracy sensors, it’s designed for the fast-paced demands of U.S. commercial buildings.
The consequences of not measuring airflow
Across the U.S., buildings are getting older, systems are overworked, and new sustainability requirements are tightening. Facilities without accurate airflow data are flying blind.
Without a balometer:
- HVAC systems can be improperly commissioned
- Rooms may not meet ventilation codes
- Energy efficiency goals are missed
- Sick building syndrome becomes a real risk
- Schools and hospitals may violate health regulations
In critical facilities like operating rooms or isolation wards, unbalanced airflow can compromise patient safety. In data centers, it can lead to equipment failure. In schools, it can affect student focus and health.
Common U.S. applications where balometers are essential
Hospitals & Healthcare Facilities
Operating rooms, ICUs, and cleanrooms require precise airflow control to prevent contamination. A balometer allows real-time balancing, especially during renovations or HVAC upgrades.
Schools & Universities
ASHRAE 62.1 compliance demands specific airflow per student. Balometers help facilities adjust ventilation rates without over-ventilating, reducing energy costs while maintaining IAQ.
Office Buildings
Balancing airflow between zones can drastically improve comfort and reduce complaints. It also helps validate HVAC retrofits and support LEED certifications.
Government & Military Buildings
Sensitive installations demand documented proof of performance. Balometers offer fast reporting and audit-ready data.
Why is the TSI® Alnor® EBT731 the preferred tool in the U.S.?
Among professionals, the EBT731 Balometer is recognized for its reliability, speed, and accuracy. Here’s why it’s a U.S. industry favorite:
- Bluetooth-enabled: Connect to your mobile device or laptop
- Quick Set-Up: No complicated menus or long warm-ups
- Interchangeable hoods: Adaptable for different grille sizes
- High accuracy: Trusted in regulated industries
- Onboard data storage: Easy report generation
Whether you’re commissioning a hospital wing or balancing an HVAC system in a federal building, this tool meets the highest standards.
Conclusion
The U.S. is heading toward smarter, safer, and more efficient buildings, but that journey starts with accurate data. Balometers are no longer nice-to-haves; they are essential.
With tools like the TSI EBT731, U.S. professionals can:
- Verify code compliance
- Optimize system performance
- Protect public health
- Reduce energy costs
At the end of the day, you can’t manage what you don’t measure, and you can’t measure airflow without a balometer.
Ready to take control of your building’s airflow? Inteccon is your trusted source for TSI airflow monitoring solutions in the U.S.