Blower Door Test in Union City, NJ

How Is A Blower Door Test Conducted?

While performing blower door test in Union City, NJ, technicians make sure exterior doors and windows are shut tight and interior doors are open for uniform pressure. A single central exterior door is designated, where the blower door’s aluminum frame and fabric panel are set up. A calibrated fan is used to depressurize the home through the frame to 50 Pascals, representing the same pressure as a 20 mph wind.

As the fan removes air from inside, exterior air flows in through leaks and gaps in the building envelope. Using a nanometer, we accurately compare the pressure difference between the fan output and the home’s interior. These measurements are used to calculate air changes per hour (ACH), which reflects the home’s airtightness and performance under NJ weather.

What Is A Passing Blower Door Test Score?

In Union City, NJ, energy efficiency standards for homes are based on the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) or more recent updates approved by the jurisdiction. 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 Union City, NJ helps optimize energy use and ensures you meet local building standards.

Why Do I Need A Blower Door Test?

Both NJ and local jurisdictions adopt the IECC energy code, making blower door test mandatory for new and renovated residential structures. Our company assists home builders, contractors, and homeowners who rely on blower door test in Union City, NJ to fulfill energy code compliance and finalize construction 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.

Through blower door test in Union City, NJ, homeowners can easily find leaks. When the fan reduces internal pressure, air movement through problem areas becomes noticeable, offering chances to save energy. This simple test, completed in a few hours, creates a long-lasting impact on your home’s efficiency and comfort during NJ’ hot and cold months.

How To Pass A Blower Door Test:

• Anticipate potential air leaks before testing begins.
• Use Tyvek or Zip Sheathing as your air barrier and carefully tape all seams to prevent air leakage.
• Apply insulation of the correct R-value and make sure it fits snugly in all areas 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.
• Make sure to seal all separations between conditioned and unconditioned areas, including crawl spaces, basements, and attics.
• Local code departments usually provide a checklist to assist with compliance — see the Philadelphia example here.
• Local Energy Audits uses thermal imaging tools, caulk, and spray foam to detect and seal leaks directly on-site./li>
• In the majority of cases—over 90%—we reach a passing score within two hours and provide all closing documentation.