Test and improve poorly performing HVAC systems
Duct System Optimization
- Improve poorly performing duct systems and solve issues others can’t.
- Diagnose and prioritize repairs with proven test methods.
- Reduce costly callbacks and increase customer satisfaction.
- Optimize and balance systems to deliver superior comfort and efficiency.
- Get paid for the expert craftsmanship you deliver, not just the boxes you sell.
(800) 633-7058
As low as $717
Two-days in-person, or four 4-hour sessions over four days online
certification course
Duct System Optimization
Learn how to deliver high quality, profitable duct system renovations that really work!
Set yourself apart from competitors by knowing how to optimize a duct system so it delivers the heating and cooling the equipment was designed to provide. The process begins with a comprehensive evaluation of the existing duct system design, equipment sizing, followed by verification of real-time performance – not simulations.
Who should attend?
Service and maintenance technicians, owners and manager, installers, service and installation managers, salespeople and sales managers
Discover more about NCI’s Duct System Optimization Program:
Do you want to provide your customers the very best comfort and energy efficiency, as well as a safe and healthy indoor environment?
It’s a known fact that typical air distribution systems across North America lose, on average, 43% of an HVAC system’s capacity. Your customers don’t have to live with these substandard systems. Now you can provide real solutions!
Unique HVAC Industry Certification
For the first time, the HVAC Industry has a certification that addresses the vital importance of ductwork in the overall performance of a mechanical system. By taking this class and passing the exam at the end of Day 2, you will earn the Duct System Optimization Specialist certification.
This is the only certification of its kind and once earned, will set you light years ahead of your competition. Add this to your company’s portfolio of high-performance NCI certifications and deliver true system performance to all your customers.
What You Get
- 16 hours of live training over two-days
- A printed workbook that allows you to follow the class and perform written exercises
- A portable Field Reference Guide designed to help you perform field testing and diagnostics
- Numerous downloadable materials including NCI’s exclusive Test Procedures; Fan Performance and Duct Sizing Tables; Pre-balance checklist; Duct Traverse forms, charts, and procedures, and so much more – 23 downloads in all!
- By completing this class, you qualify for NCI’s Duct System Optimization Specialist certification exam
- Qualify for 16 NCI Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for recertifying up to two existing NCI certifications (additional recertification fees apply).
Download a PDF About This Course:

Click here to download a free PDF all about NCI’s Duct System Optimization program to your device.
Read an Article Related to This Course:
Duct System Optimization Live, In-person Overview
Day One Agenda - Duct System Optimization
Introduction to Air Distribution Upgrade
- Overview of Air Distribution System Upgrades
- Test and Diagnose to Discover Upgrade Opportunities
- Use Static Pressure Budgets and Measure Fan Capacity
- How To Generate Customer Interest
- Create a Floor Plan and Duct Schematic
- Establish Airflow Requirements
- Measure Airflows and Pinpoint Deficiencies
Day Two Agenda - Duct System Optimization
Optimize the Duct System
- Fan, Coil, and Filter Selection
- Hands-on Fan, Coil, and Filter Sizing
- Duct Airflow Principles
- Upgrade the Air Distribution System
- Perform an Air Distribution Upgrade
- Grilles, Registers, and Diffuser Selection
- Step-by-step test-in/test-out procedures
- Class Review and Exam Preparation
The day concludes with NCI’s exclusive Duct System Optimization certification exam (optional)
Duct System Optimization Live, Online Overview
Day One Agenda (Four Hours Online, Live)
- Introduction and Webinar Logistics
- Overview of Air Distribution System Upgrades
- Test and Diagnose to Discover Upgrade Opportunities
- Use Static Pressure Budgets and Measure Fan Capacity
Day Two Agenda (Four Hours Online, Live)
- How To Generate Customer Interest
- Create a Floor Plan and Duct Schematic
- Establish Airflow Requirements
- Measure Airflows and Pinpoint Deficiencies
Day Three Agenda (Four Hours Online, Live)
- Fan, Coil, and Filter Selection
- Hands-on Fan, Coil, and Filter Sizing
- Duct Airflow Principles
- Upgrade the Air Distribution System
Day Four Agenda (Four Hours Online, Live)
- Perform an Air Distribution Upgrade
- Grilles, Registers, and Diffuser Selection
- Step-by-step test-in/test-out procedures
- Class Review and Exam Preparation
Nonmember pricing:
$1,170
NCI Member pricing:
$1,112
Certification Fees:
Certification exams are offered on the last day of training. Duct System Optimization Specialist certification exam – $95 per exam.
NCI certifications are valid for two years. Recertification is achieved with 8 hours of NCI continuing education.
Recertification Fees:
With paid Duct System Optimization and certification exam above: Add $95 per 8-hour qualifying recertification – maximum two recertifications.
Recertification Training Fees:
Recertification only: 8-hours of Duct System Optimization (training included – no certification exam): $535 per Recertification
NCI Training Bucks:
NCI Member earn $56 NCI Bucks!
NCI Member with Learning Excellence Program earn $167 NCI Bucks!
Nonmember pricing:
$755
NCI Member pricing:
$717
Certification Fees:
Certification exams are offered on the last day of training. Duct System Optimization Specialist certification exam – $95 per exam.
NCI certifications are valid for two years. Recertification is achieved with 8 hours of NCI continuing education.
Recertification Fees:
With paid Duct System Optimization and certification exam above: Add $95 per 8-hour qualifying recertification – maximum two recertifications.
Recertification Training Fees:
Recertification only: 8-hours of Duct System Optimization (training included – no certification exam): $535 per Recertification
NCI Training Bucks:
NCI Member earn $36 NCI Bucks!
NCI Member with Learning Excellence Program earn $108 NCI Bucks!
Upcoming Duct System Optimization Events:
Events
Events
Course Qualifies for NATE, BPI, & Most State CEUs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a typical training day like?
Generally in-person training days start at 8 AM and ends at either 4:30 or 5. Lunch and workbook are included. There are breaks throughout the day.
Online, live events: This training is held in four hour chunks online. See specific events for times. You will be able to log in earlier to try to reduce problems. These events are all lead live by one of NCI’s experienced instructors. There are breaks every hour.
Does this class count towards renewing my NCI certifications?
Yes. This course for up to 24 hours. You can find all the details here on our Certification/Recertification page. Please contact us if you plan on also recertifying.
Does this class count for CEUs?
These classes are approved for NATE CEUs. Please see our page about CEU‘s for more information or ask us for more information about your specific situation.
What do I need to bring to the training?
Please bring pencils and a calculator, and be ready to learn. You will receive detailed instructions before the event.
How do I attend the online training?
You’ll need a laptop, desktop computer or large tablet with internet. You won’t be able to participate well on a phone. You will receive detailed instructions before the event.

