As of July 2017, it’s a requirement under the Florida Building Code that all new residential builds undergo a blower door test, with air infiltration rates under seven air changes per hour. A higher air change per hour equates to more air seeping into your home, impacting your indoor air quality and energy consumption.
The blower door test is a diagnostic method, measuring a building’s air tightness by detecting air leaks and estimating energy efficiency. The test involves a technician attaching a high-capacity fan to a door or window, which then either pressurizes or depressurizes the building’s interior. This process enables the identification of air leaks, crucial for determining the building’s overall air tightness.
During the assessment, the fan serves to pull air from the premises or thrust it into the building, instigating a contrast in pressure from within and without. This pressure contrast detects any leakages in the building’s envelope, pointing out fractures, openings around windows and doorways, and other potential air passage points.
The operator utilizes distinctive instruments to measure the fan’s air flow rate and the pressure differential between the building’s interior and exterior. This information assists in evaluating the air tightness of the building and determining the extent of air that’s leaking.
Homeowners, contractors, and energy auditors frequently use blower door tests to pinpoint areas for energy enhancement and to gauge the success of air-sealing actions. Building inspectors also use these tests to verify that structures conform to energy regulations and air tightness standards.
Altogether, a blower door test is a vital utility for improving the energy economy and indoor tranquility of buildings. By spotting and sealing air infiltrations, property owners can minimize their energy outlays, ameliorate the quality of indoor air, and augment the overall durability and lifespan of their structures.
