Blower Door Test in Collegeville, PA

How Is A Blower Door Test Conducted?

When blower door test in Collegeville, PA is conducted, every exterior door and window is closed, and interior doors are left open to achieve uniform air movement inside. An adjustable aluminum frame and sturdy fabric panel are installed in one central exterior door to prepare for testing. A calibrated fan is connected to the frame, lowering the home’s internal pressure to 50 Pascals, roughly matching a 20 mph wind force.

As the fan expels air, the resulting pressure draws outdoor air in through hidden leaks and unsealed joints. A nanometer is used to detect and compare the pressure created by the fan with the air pressure inside the structure. These readings are then converted into the total number of air changes per hour (ACH), revealing how airtight the home is and how well it performs in the PA climate.

What Is A Passing Blower Door Test Score?

In Collegeville, PA, residential buildings must meet the benchmarks set by the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) or any newer codes adopted locally. In most regions, homes must achieve 3 air changes per hour or less on a blower door test to meet energy efficiency standards. By meeting this standard in your blower door test in Collegeville, PA, you can enjoy lower utility bills and peace of mind with code compliance.

Why Do I Need A Blower Door Test?

The State of PA and numerous local municipalities adhere to the IECC (International Energy Conservation Code), which mandates blower door test for all newly built or renovated residential homes. Our experts assist home builders, contractors, and homeowners needing blower door test in Collegeville, PA to ensure compliance with energy codes and complete final permits. You may also need a duct leakage test if your ductwork or HVAC equipment lies outside the home’s thermal envelope. Learn more about energy code compliance.

With blower door test in Collegeville, PA, homeowners can pinpoint hidden air leaks. The depressurization process makes them obvious, enabling better sealing and lower energy costs. A blower door test, typically lasting only a few hours, offers a long-lasting impact on your home’s performance, efficiency, and comfort across PA’ seasons.

How To Pass A Blower Door Test:

• Anticipate potential air leaks before testing begins.
• Select a proper air barrier such as Tyvek or Zip Sheathing and ensure every seam is thoroughly taped for airtight sealing.
• Install insulation with the appropriate R-value and ensure it is correctly fitted across the entire building envelope.
• Seal all penetrations in exterior walls using caulk or spray foam.
• Ensure doors and windows are properly installed, caulked, and weather-sealed.
• Seal gaps and openings separating conditioned spaces from unconditioned areas, including crawl spaces, basements, and attics.
• Local permitting offices often offer official compliance checklists — review the Philadelphia sample here for reference.
• Local Energy Audits uses professional-grade thermal imaging, caulk, and spray foam to locate and close leaks during the visit./li>
• In the majority of cases—over 90%—we reach a passing score within two hours and provide all closing documentation.