Blower Door Testing
Precision air leakage testing that quantifies building envelope performance and identifies infiltration pathways.
What Is Blower Door Testing?
A blower door test is a diagnostic tool used to measure how airtight a building is. A powerful fan is temporarily installed in an exterior door frame, which either pressurizes or depressurizes the building.
By measuring the airflow required to maintain a specific pressure difference, we can calculate the total air leakage rate of the building envelope. This information is essential for energy efficiency assessments and identifying air infiltration problems.
Combined with thermal imaging or smoke testing, blower door testing helps pinpoint exact locations where air is leaking through the building envelope.
The Testing Process
- 1
Preparation
Close all windows and exterior doors, open interior doors
- 2
Equipment Setup
Install calibrated fan system in exterior doorway
- 3
Pressurization
Create 50 Pascal pressure difference (positive and negative)
- 4
Measurement
Record airflow and calculate air changes per hour (ACH)
- 5
Leak Location
Use thermal imaging or smoke to identify leak paths
Testing Standards We Follow
Our testing procedures comply with recognized industry standards for accuracy and reliability.
ASTM E779
Standard test method for determining air leakage rate by fan pressurization.
CGSB 149.10
Canadian standard for determining airtightness of building envelopes.
BC Energy Step Code
Testing to meet British Columbia's building energy efficiency requirements.
Benefits of Blower Door Testing
Reduce Energy Costs
Identify and seal air leaks that waste heating and cooling energy, reducing utility bills by up to 30%.
Improve Comfort
Eliminate drafts and cold spots caused by uncontrolled air infiltration through the building envelope.
Better Air Quality
Control air movement to prevent unfiltered outdoor air, pollutants, and allergens from entering the building.
Code Compliance
Meet BC Energy Step Code requirements and demonstrate building performance for certification.
Our Testing Equipment
We use professional-grade equipment for accurate, reliable results.
Calibrated Fans
Variable speed fans with flow ranges from 25 to 7,500 CFM for buildings of all sizes.
Digital Manometers
Precision pressure gauges with 0.1 Pascal resolution for accurate measurements.
Analysis Software
Automated data collection and analysis software for professional reports.
Schedule Blower Door Testing
Contact us today to schedule air leakage testing for your building or to learn more about how it can benefit you.