When the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) went into effect, blower door testing became a requirement on all new residential builds and remodels. Prior to this code update, blower door testing had been in use for many years. However, this was the first time that it had become mandatory for many new construction projects.

The International Code Council (ICC) saw it fit to address the issues that can occur with too much air leakage in homes. Therefore, this rule was established as a way to increase energy efficiency in new residential builds.

Counties that have adopted the 2015 IECC (or any later edition) require that any new build must have a blower door test performed by a licensed, third-party company. The results of the test must not exceed the region’s maximum leakage rate in order for the building to be deemed IECC-compliant. It is a crucial aspect of the modern building process in the majority of the nation. So what is blower door testing?

What is blower door testing?

A blower door test is a procedure that involves using specialized equipment to measure the exact air tightness of a home. Depending on the region of the country, a maximum air leakage rate is defined, and each new home must meet this air tightness level.

This technique is the industry standard and is extremely accurate. Furthermore, it not only helps to determine the level of air leakage, it can actually help you to determine the exact sources causing the air leaks.

How does it work?

A blower door consists of a frame and flexible panel that fit into an exterior doorway. A powerful, variable-speed fan mounts into the frame.

All exterior openings – such as doors, windows, flues vents etc. – are closed off or sealed. The fan is then activated to blow air out of the house, lowering the inside air pressure. The higher outside air pressure then flows in through any unsealed cracks or openings.

As the fan runs, an integrated pressure gauge measures the pressure differences between the inside and outside of the home, and an airflow manometer and hoses are utilized for measuring airflow.

The equipment used in the blower door test determines a home’s air infiltration rate, which is measured in air changes per hour (ACH). This is the number that is required by the IECC code. For most Colorado municipalities, the air leakage rate for new residential builds or remodels must not exceed 3.0 ACH.

As the blower door fan runs, the technician is able to walk the house, searching for sources of large leaks. Having conducted thousands of tests, our experts know where to look for primary problem areas. Furthermore, we utilize infrared scanning devices to help detect temperature differentials within the home –  a sign that could indicate air leakage.

A specialist can then help to pinpoint the issues, when present, and relay this info to the project contractor in a timely manner. Find out more about common leaks found during a blower door test here.

Do you need a blower door test performed on your project fast? We can help! Visit our blower door service page to learn more and schedule now.

When do you perform a blower door test?

According to the IECC, the test should “be performed any time after creation of all penetrations of the building envelope have been sealed.” Basically, the home should be as close to being complete as possible, with exterior penetrations sealed properly and all the drywall completely installed, before carrying out the a blower door test.

Any leaks caused by an incomplete building envelope could potentially affect the test results. That’s why the full building envelope needs to be sealed before an accurate test can be conducted.

Who can do the testing?

Here at Scott Energy Services, a division of Scott Home Services, LLC, we proudly offer blower door testing services to the Colorado Front Range. We also offer an extensive list of other energy services including duct leakage testing, insulation inspections, air barrier inspections, full energy audits, Manual J,S &D report preparation, as well as full energy rating services including RES-Check reports and HERS ratings. Check out a full list of our services here.

Is this required in the county you are building in?

Most of the counties along the Front Range of Colorado have moved to at least the 2015 IECC building code by this time. However, we encourage you contact your municipality in order to confirm which code guidelines your building project must adhere to.