Blower door tests are becoming part and parcel of many state and local level building laws. There are certain municipalities where the test is mandated. But since this is a fairly new concept, there are still a lot of homeowners out there who are not sure what these tests are about. 

To put it simply, a blower door test is done to identify any air leakages in a home. The main goal is to help you create that air-tight home that prevents loss of heating during cold days. 

It is one of the best ways to develop an energy-efficient home and even though you will pay a small blower door test cost, in the end, it will be worth it.

How is a Blower Door Test Done?

The test analyses your home’s air leakage. Source: Department of Energy
The test analyses your home’s air leakage. Source: Department of Energy

Unlike other home improvement projects, when it comes to blower door tests there isn’t much you can do here.

That’s because blower door tests are very complicated and you may need very specialized tools to do the air leakage test. This is why in all cases, the test is done by an HVAC professional or an insulation company who has specific experience in doing these tests. 

Nonetheless, the test will follow certain steps:

  • The first thing the professional will do would be to close down all the windows and doors properly.

  • Once this is done, a large fan will be used to depressurize your home. The fan is placed in a single open doorway and it will suck in all air from any existing hole in your home.

  • The professional will then use this procedure to determine what is known as the ACH or air changes per hour. This rating can then be used to gauge how air tight your home is.

It is important to note that in some states and towns, you will be required to present the ACH rating as part of home auditing. 

This is becoming a trend and it’s only a matter of time before it makes its way in other states.

Why is the Blower Door Test Important?

A blower door test is now required in many states. Source: Build Show Network
A blower door test is now required in many states. Source: Build Show Network

Since you will be spending some money on blower door test companies to have this test done, it’s only fair to know the kind of value you get. There are three main benefits. 

First, you will get to see if your home is energy efficient or not. For example, if indeed the air leakage test expert determines that your ACH rating is not good enough, he or she will recommend a series of steps that you can take to properly insulate your house. In the long run, this will make your home energy efficient, something that will help bring down heating costs massively. 

Secondly, the blower door test may be a mandatory requirement in your area. Failure to do it may attract certain fines. So, to avoid all this trouble, it is advisable to get the test done and print your blower door test certification as soon as possible. 

Finally, you will also be happy to know that the blower door test is not as expensive as it seems. Even with the benefits that it offers, you will still reap many benefits in the long run.

Where to Find a Good Blower Door Test Specialist

There are certain factors you must always look out for before you hire a blower door test expert. Check if they are licensed to do these tests in the first place.  The last thing you need is someone without the proper papers doing this test for you. Try to work with people who have a lot of experience in this area. 

Contact a local professional to have a blower door test done in your home and request a free quote!