Blower Door Test

What is a Blower Door Test?

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A blower door test is a tool used in new and existing homes to find the energy efficiency of the home. By putting a negative pressure on the home, we are able to locate all air leakage coming inside the air-conditioned space, thereby repairing it as needed and retesting the home to see the air tightness increase on the house.

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What is a passing score?

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A passing score in the State of Florida is an infiltration rate below 7 air changes per hour. In other states such as Illinois, the infiltration rate is to be no more than 5 air changes per hr. However, most of the country requires homes to be below 7 ACH50.

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Note: In the State of Florida, an infiltration rate below 3 air changes per hour, requires outside mechanical air ventilation. Homes using Icynene Insulation (Spray Foam Insulation) typically have a score of 2 ACH50(air changes per hr.).  Outside air ventilation is required to prevent carbon dioxide and other harmful gases from building up in a home or structure, or otherwise termed as "sick house syndrome".

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After recently being added to the International Energy Conservation Code in 2015, it is required by most county and city building codes on all new construction homes and new additions. The test works by using a fan to pull air out of the house, lowering the air pressure inside. Then, the higher outside air pressure flows in through all unsealed cracks and openings. A certified energy auditor is able to pinpoint where any leaks are.