Blower Door Test in Millsboro, DE

Detect hidden air leaks and improve efficiency with professional blower door test in Millsboro, DE. Our certified technicians support homeowners, builders, and contractors in finding hidden leaks, improving comfort, and ensuring compliance with DE energy codes.

What Is A Blower Door Test?

A blower door test provides accurate data on air changes per hour, showing how efficiently fresh air circulates through your space. Frequent air replacement can harm energy performance, as each exchange requires reheating or recooling the air. Excessive air circulation may cause drafts, discomfort from leaks, and indoor problems like condensation, mold, and moisture damage. A blower door test in Millsboro, DE assists in finding and sealing air leaks early to improve home comfort, energy efficiency, and overall durability.

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How Is A Blower Door Test Conducted?

When conducting blower door test in Millsboro, DE, technicians close all exterior doors and windows and keep interior doors open for consistent air movement. A main exterior door is selected for setup, with an adjustable aluminum frame and fitted fabric panel placed in position. A calibrated fan is then attached to the frame and used to depressurize the home to 50 Pascals, which is about the same as a steady 20 mph wind pushing against the structure.

When the fan pulls air out, outdoor air enters the house through cracks, openings, and unsealed areas. With the help of a nanometer, we determine the pressure difference between the fan’s airflow and the home’s internal conditions. These measurements are used to calculate air changes per hour (ACH), which reflects the home’s airtightness and performance under DE weather.

What Is A Passing Blower Door Test Score?

Homes built in Millsboro, DE are expected to comply with the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) or any newer local versions in effect. For most regions, achieving 3 air changes per hour or less on a blower door test ensures that the home is properly energy efficient. Complying with this benchmark during a blower door test in Millsboro, DE helps cut energy expenses and meet local building regulations.

Why Do I Need A Blower Door Test?

In accordance with the IECC, the State of DE and various local authorities require blower door test for new or remodeled residential properties. Our professionals frequently support home builders, contractors, and homeowners who need blower door test in Millsboro, DE to comply with energy codes and finalize projects. A duct leakage test might be necessary if your home’s HVAC units or ducts are located outside its thermal envelope. Learn more about energy code compliance.

Homeowners experience real energy benefits from blower door test in Millsboro, DE. The fan’s depressurization highlights air leaks, helping identify inefficiencies that can be sealed for savings. A blower door test is quick to perform but offers a long-lasting impact on comfort, energy savings, and home efficiency across all DEclimates.

How To Pass A Blower Door Test:

  • Anticipate potential air leaks before testing begins.
  • Apply an air barrier like Tyvek or Zip Sheathing, making sure all connecting seams are properly taped and sealed.
  • Fit insulation with the correct R-value and make sure it’s installed without voids 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.
  • Properly seal all connections between conditioned and unconditioned zones, including basements, crawl spaces, and attics.
  • Many building departments provide step-by-step compliance guides — you can find the Philadelphia example here.
  • Our team at Local Energy Audits employs thermal imaging, caulk, and spray foam to locate and repair leaks efficiently on-site./li>
  • In the majority of cases—over 90%—we reach a passing score within two hours and provide all closing documentation.

Preparing for a Blower Door Test in Millsboro, DE

To get ready for blower door test in Millsboro, DE, our team turns off the HVAC system and shuts down kitchen and bathroom fans. We continue with a walkthrough inspection to confirm every exterior door and window is firmly closed — especially those to unconditioned spaces outside the thermal envelope. With the home sealed, we select a main exterior door, install the blower door setup, and use the fan to depressurize to 50 Pascals, enabling accurate airflow measurement. Once pressure is lowered, outdoor air moves in with greater force, highlighting problem areas and leaks. With a thermal imager, we identify issues by locating temperature differences across walls, ceilings, and surfaces leading to unconditioned areas. Our team provides on-site repair using chalk, spray foam, and weatherstripping, working with homeowners or contractors to fix visible air leakage problems. Once sealing is finished, we conduct an instant retest to ensure the desired blower door score is reached, confirming compliance with Millsboro, DE building codes.

Blower Door Test for Contractors in Millsboro, DE

When contractors schedule blower door test in Millsboro, DE, professionally insulated homes often only need minor adjustments that can be handled during the test. With tools such as chalk and spray foam, we can address small leaks or gaps without delay. In more than 90% of cases, we deliver a passing blower door test score within two hours and finalize all permit documentation immediately afterward.

Schedule Your blower door test in Millsboro, DE

Get dependable, efficient, and certified blower door test in Millsboro, DE performed by our qualified and experienced experts. Whether you’re a homeowner upgrading comfort or a contractor closing permits, we carry out each test with accuracy and in full compliance with energy regulations.