Blower Door Test in Bristol, PA

How Is A Blower Door Test Conducted?

In preparation for blower door test in Bristol, PA, all exterior entry points are sealed, and interior doors are left open to allow consistent air circulation. Technicians install a fabric panel and adjustable aluminum frame into one central exterior door opening. A calibrated fan mounted on the frame reduces the home’s pressure to 50 Pascals, simulating the force of a continuous 20 mph wind.

As the fan operates, it forces outside air to penetrate the home through gaps, leaks, and openings. A precise nanometer instrument allows us to compare the pressure generated by the fan to that within the house. These measurements are used to calculate air changes per hour (ACH), which reflects the home’s airtightness and performance under PA weather.

What Is A Passing Blower Door Test Score?

Homes throughout Bristol, PA are required to satisfy the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) or the most current version enforced by local regulators. Typically, a passing blower door test result is 3 air changes per hour or lower, which indicates good energy efficiency. Passing this requirement during a blower door test in Bristol, PA keeps your home efficient and aligned with local building code standards.

Why Do I Need A Blower Door Test?

The State of PA and its local governments follow the IECC standards, which require blower door test on newly built or remodeled residential dwellings. We proudly serve home builders, contractors, and homeowners who need blower door test in Bristol, PA to pass inspections and fulfill energy code obligations. 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 Bristol, PA, homeowners can detect where energy is being wasted. As the fan depressurizes the house, leaks are revealed, highlighting areas for sealing and savings. blower door test in Bristol, PA provides homeowners with clear insights into energy loss. When the fan creates pressure differences, leaks are exposed, allowing for easy detection and repair. Although it’s a short process, a blower door test produces a long-lasting impact by improving comfort and lowering energy costs throughout PA’ climate extremes.

How To Pass A Blower Door Test:

• Anticipate potential air leaks before testing begins.
• Choose an appropriate air barrier, like Tyvek or Zip Sheathing, and ensure all seams are accurately and securely taped.
• 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 all joints and gaps that connect conditioned and unconditioned areas such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces.
• Building departments in many areas share checklists for verifying compliance — download the Philadelphia version here as a sample.
• Local Energy Audits provides on-site leak detection and sealing using advanced thermal imaging tools, caulk, and spray foam./li>
• In the majority of cases—over 90%—we reach a passing score within two hours and provide all closing documentation.