Blower Door Test

Diagnostic testing can reveal many hidden air leaks around a home. These leaks result in an inefficient home. After a new home has been dry-walled, the HERS Rater will perform the blower door test to detect air leaks. The builder will seal up any leaks identified by the blower door test.

The blower door is a powerful fan that is mounted into the frame of an exterior door. The fan pulls air out of the house, lowering the air pressure inside. The higher outside air pressure then flows in through all unsealed cracks and openings. Since leakier houses require more airflow to induce a given pressure difference, blower doors can measure the relative leakiness of a house. HERS Raters may also use a smoke pencil to detect air leaks. These tests determine the air infiltration rate of a building and contribute to the home’s HERS Index.

Duct Blaster Test

A duct blaster test measures the leakiness of the ductwork. Ten to 30 percent of a typical home's heating and cooling bill can be attributed to duct leakage. If not sealed properly, heating and cooling ducts lose conditioned air and return ducts pull in unhealthy air from attics and crawlspaces. Unhealthy air contributes to medical problems and introduces unwanted dust and pollen into your home. Results from the duct blaster test contribute to a home’s HERS Index. ENERGY STAR qualified homes must have a tested duct leakage rate of 4%-6% or lower.