Blower Door Test in Glenside, PA

How Is A Blower Door Test Conducted?

In preparation for blower door test in Glenside, PA, all exterior entry points are sealed, and interior doors are left open to allow consistent air circulation. A single central exterior door is designated, where the blower door’s aluminum frame and fabric panel are set up. A calibrated fan is installed onto the frame, creating a pressure difference of 50 Pascals, comparable to a continuous 20 mph wind blowing on the home.

As the fan extracts air, exterior air begins entering the house through any unsealed spaces or cracks. Using a highly accurate nanometer, we compare the fan-induced pressure to the natural air pressure inside the home. Measurements are expressed as air changes per hour (ACH), showing how effectively the home retains conditioned air in the PA environment.

What Is A Passing Blower Door Test Score?

In Glenside, PA, homes generally must comply with the requirements of the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) or newer editions enforced by local authorities. In most locations, 3 air changes per hour or less is the standard blower door test result for efficient home performance. Reaching the target during your blower door test in Glenside, PA guarantees lower energy consumption and full 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. We frequently assist home builders, contractors, and homeowners who need blower door test in Glenside, PA to comply with energy codes and finalize building permits. A duct leakage test requirement applies if ducts or HVAC units are positioned outside the structure’s thermal envelope. Learn more about energy code compliance.

Using blower door test in Glenside, PA, homeowners can detect unwanted airflow. The depressurization process reveals leaks, helping them seal gaps and increase comfort. Completing a blower door test takes just a few hours, yet its long-lasting impact enhances comfort and performance in every PAseason.

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.
• Apply the correct R-value insulation and verify that it’s properly fitted to seal the whole building envelope.
• Seal all penetrations in exterior walls using caulk or spray foam.
• Ensure doors and windows are properly installed, caulked, and weather-sealed.
• Close any gaps connecting conditioned and unconditioned spaces, such as those leading to basements, attics, or crawl spaces.
• Local authorities often publish checklists to confirm compliance — get the Philadelphia example here.
• Using thermal imaging technology along with caulk and spray foam, Local Energy Audits identifies and seals leaks during the inspection./li>
• In more than 90% of cases, we secure a passing score within two hours and deliver the paperwork needed to close the permit.