What is a Blower Door Test?
A blower door is a calibrated fan mounted in an exterior doorway that measures how much air leaks through a home’s envelope. This test is required by the IECC energy code for most new construction and is equally valuable for existing homes. For builders, it ensures accurate HVAC sizing and code compliance. For homeowners, it identifies drafts, trapped humidity, and hidden moisture issues that raise energy bills and reduce comfort and durability.
Why Airtightness Matters:
1. Moisture Control: Prevents humid air from entering walls and causing condensation, mold, or material damage.
2. Indoor Air Quality: Reduces contaminants pulled from attics, crawlspaces, or wall voids.
3. Comfort & Efficiency: Eliminates drafts, uneven temperatures, and high utility bills.
4. HVAC Accuracy: Ensures load calculations are based on real data.
In summary, excess air leakage undermines durability, efficiency, comfort, and air quality while overworking HVAC systems and risking code failures. A blower door test r
Thermal Imaging- Diagnosing Air Leakage
Thermal imaging during a blower door test reveals the hidden pathways where air leaks into and out of a home. While many assume most energy is lost through windows and doors, the real culprits are often behind walls, ceilings, and other unseen areas. By combining blower door testing with infrared imaging, we can pinpoint these problem spots and address the root causes of energy loss and moisture concerns.