The blower door test is a key component of a home energy assessment, helping to identify and measure air leakage in your home. Inadequate air sealing or insulation in Long Island homes is one of the major contributors to home energy loss, which results in discomfort and increased energy bills throughout the year.
What is a Blower Door Test?
A blower door is a unit composed of a nylon frame with an attached fan. During a blower door test, this is inserted into an entry door of your home. The test starts by shutting all windows and exterior doors, except the one with the blower door attached, and turning off all HVAC systems and appliances.
Once the blower door fan is turned on, air is pulled out of your home. This creates a negative pressure atmosphere inside, causing air from the high pressure outdoors to be drawn in through unwanted gaps and cracks throughout your home. As this happens, a gauge on the blower door measures the amount of air leaking into your home and calculates the rate of air leakage.
What is Air Leakage?
Air leakage is caused by cracks, gaps and holes in your home's building envelope. Most homes have a significant amount of air leaks that allow heat, moisture and pollution to flow freely from outside in and vice versa. Air leaks contribute to problems with regulating your home's temperature, drafts, poor indoor air quality and high energy bills.
Where Do Air Leaks Commonly Occur?
Air leaks most commonly occur in areas on the perimeter of your home, including around:
- Electrical outlets
- Door jambs, window and door openings
- Floor headers
- Recessed lights
- Attic hatches
- Chimneys
Energy Efficiency for Your Long Island Home
Energy Haus can perform a blower door test to help you determine just how much air leakage is taking place in your home. A piece of a home energy assessment, the blower door test results can help determine just how much your home could benefit from air sealing. Find out how much more comfortable, healthy and efficient your home can be with a blower door test today!