Blower Door Test in Immaculata, PA

How Is A Blower Door Test Conducted?

For accurate blower door test in Immaculata, PA, technicians close all exterior openings and keep interior doors open to balance airflow throughout the house. A central exterior door is used as the setup point, where an adjustable aluminum frame and fabric panel are positioned. The mounted calibrated fan depressurizes the building to 50 Pascals, a condition similar to the effect of a 20 mph wind.

As the fan operates, it forces outside air to penetrate the home through gaps, leaks, and openings. A sensitive nanometer is used to monitor and compare the pressure difference between the blower fan and the home’s interior air. These figures are calculated into air changes per hour (ACH), reflecting how well the home prevents air loss and maintains efficiency in PA conditions.

What Is A Passing Blower Door Test Score?

In Immaculata, PA, residential properties must meet the energy efficiency criteria outlined in the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) or updated local versions. Generally, a blower door test result of 3 air changes per hour or less is considered acceptable, ensuring proper energy performance. Satisfying this requirement in your blower door test in Immaculata, PA helps optimize energy use and ensures you meet local building standards.

Why Do I Need A Blower Door Test?

Following the IECC guidelines, PA and many local jurisdictions require blower door test on newly built or renovated residential dwellings. We frequently assist home builders, contractors, and homeowners who need blower door test in Immaculata, PA to comply with energy codes and finalize building permits. A duct leakage test is sometimes required if any HVAC components or duct lines are found beyond the building’s thermal envelope. Learn more about energy code compliance.

Homeowners gain major advantages from blower door test in Immaculata, PA. As the fan depressurizes the home, incoming air through leaks becomes easier to detect, revealing problem spots and potential energy-saving improvements. Typically completed within a few hours, a blower door test provides a long-lasting impact on comfort, energy efficiency, and overall home performance in PA’ varied climate.

How To Pass A Blower Door Test:

• Anticipate potential air leaks before testing begins.
• Apply an effective air barrier such as Tyvek or Zip Sheathing, ensuring every seam is tightly sealed with proper tape.
• Use properly rated insulation with the right R-value and ensure consistent coverage throughout 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.
• Close and seal every opening between heated or cooled spaces and unconditioned areas such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces.
• Most building departments provide detailed compliance resources — view the Philadelphia checklist example here.
• Our professionals at Local Energy Audits use caulk, spray foam, and thermal imaging to detect and seal leaks on-site for better efficiency./li>
• In the majority of cases—over 90%—we reach a passing score within two hours and provide all closing documentation.