Blower Door Test in South Plainfield, NJ

How Is A Blower Door Test Conducted?

During blower door test in South Plainfield, NJ, exterior openings are closed securely, and interior doors are left open to maintain even air circulation across the house. An adjustable aluminum frame and sturdy fabric panel are installed in one central exterior door to prepare for testing. After setup, a calibrated fan is attached to the frame to lower the air pressure inside the house to 50 Pascals, equivalent to a 20 mph wind.

As the fan creates negative pressure, outside air infiltrates the home through gaps and small openings. Using a sensitive instrument known as a nanometer, we measure the fan’s pressure against the home’s internal pressure. These results are transformed into air changes per hour (ACH), an indicator of the home’s airtightness and its efficiency in NJ conditions.

What Is A Passing Blower Door Test Score?

In South Plainfield, NJ, all new homes must comply with the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) or more current codes enforced by local jurisdictions. In most regions, homes must achieve 3 air changes per hour or less on a blower door test to meet energy efficiency standards. When your blower door test in South Plainfield, NJmeets this requirement, you benefit from reduced energy bills and code compliance.

Why Do I Need A Blower Door Test?

The State of NJ, together with many cities and counties, enforces the IECC (International Energy Conservation Code), which calls for blower door test on new or renovated residential properties. We often collaborate with home builders, contractors, and homeowners who require blower door test in South Plainfield, NJ to meet energy efficiency standards and close permits. 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.

Using blower door test in South Plainfield, NJ, homeowners can detect unwanted airflow. The depressurization process reveals leaks, helping them seal gaps and increase comfort. Although it’s a short process, a blower door test produces a long-lasting impact by improving comfort and lowering energy costs throughout NJ’ climate extremes.

How To Pass A Blower Door Test:

• Anticipate potential air leaks before testing begins.
• Use high-quality air barrier materials like Tyvek or Zip Sheathing and confirm all seams are perfectly taped.
• Use insulation of the correct R-value and confirm that it’s tightly installed throughout every section 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.
• Seal off any access points or gaps between conditioned and unconditioned spaces like attics, crawl spaces, and basements.
• Local code offices often issue compliance checklists — access the Philadelphia example here for reference.
• Local Energy Audits identifies and repairs leaks on-site using thermal imaging tools, caulk, and high-quality spray foam./li>
• More than 90% of our tests result in a passing score within two hours, along with immediate permit documentation.