Engineering Insights & Education

Blower Door Tests: How much do they cost?

Written by Legacy Engineering | Jan 26, 2024 1:30:00 PM

If you want to save money on electric bills month after month, your home's level of energy efficiency makes all the difference.  One cost-effective method of testing your home's performance is the Blower Door Test.  This diagnostic tool is designed to assess the airtightness of a building, uncovering hidden inefficiencies that can significantly impact energy consumption and indoor temperature maintenance. At Legacy Engineering, we charge $200 to perform a blower door test.  It's a little investment on the front end that can help you correct costly energy leaks that add up over time. 

A blower door test involves mounting a powerful fan in an exterior door opening of the building. The fan depressurized the indoor space, causing air from the outside to infiltrate the structure. The test then measures the airflow rate required to maintain a specific pressure difference between the inside and outside, which is measured in Air Changes Per Hour (ACH) or more commonly called the air leakage rate.

While other engineering firms’ pricing may vary, Legacy Engineering offers Blower Door Tests for $200.  This is a wise investment considering the valuable insights it offers. Homes with excessive air leakage obviously consume more electricity as climate-controlled air escapes, leading to higher heating and cooling costs. By identifying and sealing these leaks, homeowners can achieve substantial energy savings.

In addition to monthly savings, a blower door test can also enhance indoor comfort. One can have an unlimited energy budget and many houses still cannot keep up in the scorching Florida heat. Air leaks not only allow conditioned air to escape but also permit external air, potentially carrying allergens, pollutants, and humidity, to infiltrate the living space. Identifying and sealing these gaps improves indoor air quality, creating a healthier and more comfortable environment for occupants. The benefits extend beyond mere energy efficiency, contributing to the overall well-being of those residing in the home.

In the context of building codes and standards, a Blower Door Test is increasingly becoming a prerequisite. Many energy-efficient programs and certifications, such as ENERGY STAR and LEED, require homes to meet specific air-tightness standards. The test ensures compliance with these standards, which not only adds value to the property but also aligns with the growing demand for sustainable and energy-efficient homes in the real estate market.

The simplicity and efficiency of the Blower Door Test make it accessible to homeowners and contractors alike. Its non-intrusive nature means that the test can be conducted quickly, providing immediate results and actionable insights. The minimal $200 cost, when viewed in the context of potential energy savings and increased home value, underscores the affordability and practicality of this diagnostic tool.

A Blower Door Test, holds immense significance in the realms of energy efficiency, indoor comfort, and compliance with industry standards. Beyond the initial investment, the test becomes a gateway to long-term financial savings, improved living conditions, and a greener, more sustainable home. For homeowners looking to enhance their property's efficiency and comfort, the Blower Door Test proves that sometimes, the best investments come in small packages.

Scheduling has never been easier. To schedule your tests, call (904)-735-1100 to speak with our scheduling dispatcher, Kellen Norton. She will gather the necessary project information and schedule a technician to arrive at your site within 1-2 days. Quick service, dedicated communication, and optimum results are Legacy Engineering's guarantees when it comes to our engineering services.