Blower Door Test in Spinnerstown, PA

How Is A Blower Door Test Conducted?

To carry out blower door test in Spinnerstown, PA, exterior doors and windows are fully closed, and interior doors are left open for even air distribution in the home. A main exterior door is selected for setup, with an adjustable aluminum frame and fitted fabric panel placed in position. The technician mounts a calibrated fan to the frame to depressurize the house to 50 Pascals, roughly matching a 20 mph wind effect.

As air is drawn out by the fan, it causes outdoor air to infiltrate through existing leaks and gaps in the structure. With the help of a nanometer, we determine the pressure difference between the fan’s airflow and the home’s internal conditions. These results are transformed into air changes per hour (ACH), an indicator of the home’s airtightness and its efficiency in PA conditions.

What Is A Passing Blower Door Test Score?

Residential buildings in Spinnerstown, PA must adhere to the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) or newer versions adopted by city or county regulations. In most cases, passing the blower door test means reaching 3 air changes per hour or less, proving efficient home sealing. Meeting this benchmark in your blower door test in Spinnerstown, PA reduces ongoing energy costs while ensuring local regulatory compliance.

Why Do I Need A Blower Door Test?

PA state regulations and many municipalities abide by the IECC, enforcing blower door tests for newly constructed or renovated homes. We often collaborate with home builders, contractors, and homeowners who require blower door test in Spinnerstown, PA to meet energy efficiency standards and close 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.

Homeowners who choose blower door test in Spinnerstown, PA can easily locate leaks. As the fan depressurizes the home, airflow through gaps becomes apparent, exposing areas needing improvement. A blower door test usually takes just a few hours but delivers a long-lasting impact on your home’s comfort, performance, and efficiency—particularly during PA’ hot summers and cool winters.

How To Pass A Blower Door Test:

• Anticipate potential air leaks before testing begins.
• Use an air barrier system such as Tyvek or Zip Sheathing and verify that each seam is properly sealed with tape.
• Use insulation with the right R-value and confirm it is properly installed 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.
• Seal the transitions between conditioned and unconditioned zones, particularly around basements, attics, and crawl spaces.
• Local code departments usually provide a checklist to assist with compliance — see the Philadelphia example here.
• With caulk, spray foam, and advanced thermal imaging, Local Energy Audits locates and seals leaks efficiently on-site./li>
• In the majority of cases—over 90%—we reach a passing score within two hours and provide all closing documentation.