Blower Door Test in Buckingham, PA

How Is A Blower Door Test Conducted?

To execute blower door test in Buckingham, PA, exterior windows and doors are secured shut, while interior doors are left open to distribute air evenly. A central exterior door is picked, where the technician fits an adjustable aluminum frame and fabric panel for airtight testing. A calibrated fan is used to depressurize the home through the frame to 50 Pascals, representing the same pressure as a 20 mph wind.

As the fan operates, it forces outside air to penetrate the home through gaps, leaks, and openings. Using a highly accurate nanometer, we compare the fan-induced pressure to the natural air pressure inside the home. The data collected is translated into air changes per hour (ACH), showing the home’s airtightness and overall energy efficiency in PA conditions.

What Is A Passing Blower Door Test Score?

Homes built in Buckingham, PA are expected to comply with the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) or any newer local versions in effect. In most jurisdictions, 3 air changes per hour or less is the benchmark for acceptable blower door test results and energy efficiency. Achieving compliance in your blower door test in Buckingham, PA helps improve energy efficiency and meet all local code mandates.

Why Do I Need A Blower Door Test?

Both PA and local jurisdictions adopt the IECC energy code, making blower door test mandatory for new and renovated residential structures. We specialize in helping home builders, contractors, and homeowners with blower door test in Buckingham, PA to achieve energy code compliance and finalize inspections. 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 who choose blower door test in Buckingham, PA can easily locate leaks. As the fan depressurizes the home, airflow through gaps becomes apparent, exposing areas needing improvement. 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.
• Use an air barrier system such as Tyvek or Zip Sheathing and verify that each seam is properly sealed with tape.
• Use insulation that has the designated R-value and confirm it’s properly applied throughout the building envelope for maximum efficiency.
• Seal all penetrations in exterior walls using caulk or spray foam.
• Ensure doors and windows are properly installed, caulked, and weather-sealed.
• Seal every transition point between conditioned and unconditioned environments, including attics, crawl spaces, and basements.
• Local permitting offices often offer official compliance checklists — review the Philadelphia sample here for reference.
• With the help of thermal imaging tools, caulk, and spray foam, Local Energy Audits efficiently detects and seals leaks on-site./li>
• More than 90% of our tests result in a passing score within two hours, along with immediate permit documentation.