Professional Blower Door Testing in Florida
One of the many requirements for any new-construction home in Florida to meet code is passing a blower door test. And if you’re looking for a vendor that can not only complete this testing, but also supplement it with HVAC load calculations, energy reports, and duct leakage testing all under one roof, Calcs-Plus is the name to know. We’ve offered blower door testing with detailed reporting and clear, consistent communication throughout the state since 1991, and we’re as determined as ever to help you fix potential code issues before they can become problems.
What is Blower Door Testing?
Blower door testing (also called envelope leakage testing) is a crucial method for measuring the airtightness of buildings, necessary to comply with Florida Energy Code and obtain a Certificate of Occupancy. This highly effective test involves using a powerful fan to depressurize or pressurize the building, enabling technicians to detect and measure air leaks in walls, floors, and ceilings. By identifying areas of air leakage, blower door testing can help improve indoor air quality, reduce energy consumption, and lower utility bills. It is an essential component of building science that anyone looking to improve the energy efficiency of their home or building must consider.
Duct Leakage Testing
When you have blower door testing completed at your building, you may be required to pair it with a duct leakage test. It’s a great way to ensure that the building’s HVAC system is operating properly, and Calcs-Plus can recommend effective, code-compliant solutions if it isn’t.
Why Choose Calcs-Plus for Blower Door Testing?
At Calcs-Plus, our goal is always to save your time, your money, and your reputation, whether you’re partnering with us for blower door testing or any of our other services. Our clients enjoy working with us because we:
- Use our vast experience and HVAC system knowledge to move quickly without missing even the smallest details
- Always flag potential code issues and recommend fixes that avoid inspection delays
- Explain our findings and recommendations clearly
- Always follow up
Florida Energy Code Blower Door Testing Preparation Checklist
Before scheduling blower door testing for your building, refer to this checklist:
Power & Access
- Permanent power is active (no temporary generators)
- Attic hatch cut to fit and installed
- All exterior doors and windows installed and operable
- Exterior door hardware installed (knobs/locks)
- Paint/stain on exterior doors is dry
- Weather stripping installed on all exterior doors, including mechanical closets
Interior Construction
- All ceiling finishes and flooring installed
- All wall and ceiling penetrations sealed (outlets, switches, etc.)
- Outlet and low-voltage cover plates installed
- Recessed lighting, ceiling speakers, and HVAC registers fully installed
- Kitchen range hood and all exhaust fans installed and operational
- Fireplace damper installed and operable (if applicable)
- Dryer vent backdraft damper in place (if dryer not installed)
- No open drywall or ceiling penetrations
HVAC/Volume Info
- Air handler installed (does not need startup)
- Submit energy calculations showing conditioned volume (CF) and floor area (SF)
- (Skip submitting energy calculations if Calcs-Plus did them)
On the Day of Testing
- Testing takes ~10–15 minutes
- All exterior doors and windows must remain closed during testing
- Anyone on-site must stay either inside or outside the home during the test – not move between.
- Testing may be rescheduled due to rain or winds over 15 mph
Contact Us Today
Does your new-construction residential building in Florida need blower door testing to become code compliant? Let the team at Calcs-Plus help. Contact us today to schedule your envelope leakage test.