Blower Door Test in Quakertown, PA

How Is A Blower Door Test Conducted?

When blower door test in Quakertown, PA is conducted, every exterior door and window is closed, and interior doors are left open to achieve uniform air movement inside. A single central exterior door is designated, where the blower door’s aluminum frame and fabric panel are set up. A calibrated fan is then attached to the frame and used to depressurize the home to 50 Pascals, which is about the same as a steady 20 mph wind pushing against the structure.

When air is pulled from the home, outside air finds its way in through cracks and unsealed openings. A nanometer is used to detect and compare the pressure created by the fan with the air pressure inside the structure. The pressure data is turned into air changes per hour (ACH), a measure of how efficiently and tightly the home is sealed in PA.

What Is A Passing Blower Door Test Score?

In Quakertown, PA, new construction typically follows the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) or an updated edition implemented by local codes. For most regions, achieving 3 air changes per hour or less on a blower door test ensures that the home is properly energy efficient. Satisfying this requirement in your blower door test in Quakertown, PA helps optimize energy use and ensures you meet local building standards.

Why Do I Need A Blower Door Test?

PA, along with many city governments, enforces the IECC, which requires blower door test for residential projects after construction or renovation. Our team frequently assists home builders, contractors, and homeowners performing blower door test in Quakertown, PA to verify compliance and secure permit approval. A duct leakage test may also be performed when ductwork or HVAC equipment extends beyond the thermal envelope. Learn more about energy code compliance.

Performing blower door test in Quakertown, PA allows homeowners to identify and fix leaks. The test makes air infiltration visible, uncovering opportunities to reduce energy loss. It only takes a few hours to perform a blower door test, but the long-lasting impact on comfort and efficiency is felt through PA’ hot summers and cool winters.

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.
• Ensure insulation with the specified R-value is properly installed and fitted throughout 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.
• Ensure all penetrations between conditioned and unconditioned areas—like attics, basements, and crawl spaces—are tightly sealed.
• Local building departments often supply a detailed checklist to ensure compliance — you can download the Philadelphia example here for guidance.
• Local Energy Audits technicians carry thermal imaging devices, caulk, and spray foam to pinpoint and seal air leaks immediately./li>
• More than 90% of the time, our team delivers a passing score in less than two hours and completes the necessary permit paperwork.