Blower Door Test in Glen Ridge, NJ

How Is A Blower Door Test Conducted?

For blower door test in Glen Ridge, NJ, all outside doors and windows are closed properly, and inside doors are kept open to balance air pressure throughout the space. A single central exterior door is designated, where the blower door’s aluminum frame and fabric panel are set up. A calibrated fan is placed within the frame and operated to depressurize the structure to 50 Pascals — nearly the same as a 20 mph wind hitting the building.

When the fan starts pulling air out, external air enters through the smallest cracks and leakage points. Using a nanometer, we accurately compare the pressure difference between the fan output and the home’s interior. 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 NJ climate.

What Is A Passing Blower Door Test Score?

Homes in Glen Ridge, NJ are typically required to follow the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) or the most recent version adopted locally. In most jurisdictions, 3 air changes per hour or less is the benchmark for acceptable blower door test results and energy efficiency. When your blower door test in Glen Ridge, NJmeets this requirement, you benefit from reduced energy bills and code compliance.

Why Do I Need A Blower Door Test?

Across NJ, the IECC (International Energy Conservation Code) is adopted by the state and local jurisdictions, requiring blower door test on residential constructions and renovations. We regularly provide blower door test in Glen Ridge, NJ for home builders, contractors, and homeowners working to meet local code requirements and close permits. A duct leakage test may also be necessary if any ducts or HVAC systems are positioned outside the building’s thermal envelope. Learn more about energy code compliance.

Performing blower door test in Glen Ridge, NJ allows homeowners to identify and fix leaks. The test makes air infiltration visible, uncovering opportunities to reduce energy loss. Typically completed within a few hours, a blower door test provides a long-lasting impact on comfort, energy efficiency, and overall home performance in NJ’ varied climate.

How To Pass A Blower Door Test:

• Anticipate potential air leaks before testing begins.
• Use materials like Tyvek or Zip Sheathing as your air barrier and ensure every seam is well taped for best results.
• Install correctly rated insulation with the proper R-value and confirm it’s well positioned in every part of the 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.
• Building departments typically release step-by-step compliance lists — download the Philadelphia sample here as an example.
• Local Energy Audits arrives fully equipped with thermal imaging, caulk, and spray foam to detect and seal leaks in one visit./li>
• Over 90% of cases result in a passing score within two hours, along with complete permit documentation.