Blower Door test
Blower door testing is used to determine the efficiency and health of a building by testing the airtightness of the building envelope.
We will always conduct a Blower Door Test as part of our full builds, and also offer this testing service to other builders and homeowners.
Calibrated fans are installed in an external door and all other openings in the building are blocked. The fan has sensors that can accurately measure the amount of air it takes to maintain a constant pressure of 50 pascals (a fresh breeze). The more air leakages - the higher the air changes.
The test involves pressurising and depressurising the building, and the average is taken from both measurements. Several methods can be used to detect significant air leaks.
Tests are normally conducted twice on a new building, once after an airtight seal is installed, such as an internal wrap, and once after completion. Once the building is fully enclosed and windows have been installed, the first test is particularly important, giving us the opportunity to find any leaks and repair them before installing the wall cladding.
Did you know, in a certified passive house air tightness must be less than 0.6 air changes per hour? Homes that are built to minimum-code average 4 to 10 air changes per hour.
Why is air-tightness important?
During the colder months, an air-tight home minimises heat being lost through air leakes, so you pay less for heating it.
While in the warmer months, an air-tight home reduces heat from getting into your home, and therefore less energy (and money) is needed to cool it.
It also stops moisture entering your wall cavity causing mould, rot and corrosion.
Simply put, air leakages carry heating and cooling energy, reducing the efficiency of a building.
Every leak we can eliminate saves money for our clients and helps the environment by using less power.
Get in touch with Mark to find out more information or to get your home tested too.
