What is TAB (Testing, Adjusting & Balancing)?
Testing, Adjusting & Balancing (TAB) is the process of verifying and fine-tuning HVAC systems to achieve their designed performance and comfort conditions. It ensures that every fan, pump, duct, and pipe in the building delivers the correct amount of air and water flow as intended by the design.
TAB is not just about measuring — it is about optimization. Through systematic testing and precise balancing, the system operates efficiently, consumes less energy, and maintains stable indoor conditions.
At SABER Engineering, a NEBB-Certified Firm (Cert. No. 3969), we perform TAB in full compliance with NEBB, ASHRAE, and SMACNA standards, ensuring data accuracy, documentation integrity, and lasting performance.
TAB serves three main objectives:
Verify that installed HVAC systems meet design intent.
Adjust system components to ensure balanced and efficient performance.
Provide a certified record of actual performance versus design parameters.
Our Scope of Work
Our Scope of Work:
Air and hydronic system balancing and troubleshooting.
Airflow measurement (Supply / Return / Exhaust / Fresh Air).
Water flow measurement and pressure testing.
Fan and pump performance verification.
Room pressurization and stairwell pressurization tests.
Sound and vibration level measurements.
HVAC control and sequence of operation verification.
Design review and HVAC system survey studies.
Our Methodology
Our Methodology:
Document Review – Analyze design drawings, schedules, and equipment data.
System Readiness – Verify installation, accessibility, and test port locations.
Baseline Testing – Record initial airflow and water flow readings.
Progressive Balancing – Adjust branches, dampers, and valves to design values.
Functional Verification – Validate fan/pump curves and control sequences.
Final Documentation – Issue a NEBB-compliant TAB Report with certified readings and tolerances.
TAB instruments
Capture Hood (Direct Reading Hood):
Measures air volumes directly at outlets and diffusers
Air Velocity Measurement (Rotating Vane):
Measures airflow velocity at diffusers, grilles, and terminals
Air Velocity & Pressure Measurement
(Pitot Tube):
Used with a differential pressure meter to perform duct traverse tests and calculate accurate airflow rates (CFM or L/s)
We utilise calibrated, state-of-the-art equipment, including but not limited to:
Sound Level Measurement:
Ensures sound levels are within acceptable design limits and comfort standards.
Rotation Measurement:
Used to verify fan and motor speed (RPM) ensuring proper mechanical performance.
Temperature & Humidity Measurement:
Determines indoor air conditions and coil efficiency.
Air Pressure Measurement:
Used for static and differential pressure readings in ducts and spaces.
Hydronic Differential Pressure Measurement:
Verifies pressure drop across coils and balancing valves to calculate water flow.
Vibration Measurement:
Detects mechanical imbalance or misalignment in rotating equipment to prevent premature failure.
Software Integration
Our TAB and Commissioning operations are managed through Proof CxTAB Software, a professional engineering tool that:
Automates airflow and waterflow calculations.
Monitors project progress online in real time.
Provides standardized NEBB templates and field forms.
Generates professional reports instantly — complete with cover pages, charts, and summaries.
This digital approach increases accuracy, transparency, and report turnaround speed, ensuring clients receive reliable results faster.
Client Benefits
Reduced operating costs and energy consumption.
Extended HVAC system life and fewer maintenance issues.
Enhanced indoor comfort and air quality.
Compliance with NEBB and ASHRAE standards for design verification.
Fast, traceable reporting powered by Proof CxTAB Software.
Need a NEBB-Certified TAB Partner You Can Trust?
SABER Engineering delivers independent, accurate, and fully certified Testing, Adjusting & Balancing services for all types of projects.
Get in touch today and let our experts ensure your building systems perform at their best.
