At Bright Home Surveys, our air permeability testing process is thorough and adheres to industry best practices, utilizing high-precision equipment to deliver accurate and dependable results. Here’s a detailed overview of how we conduct our testing:

1. Preparation
   To ensure precise air permeability testing, we begin by sealing intentional ventilation openings such as vents, extractor fans, and chimneys. Clients are advised to close all windows and doors to create a controlled environment, which is essential for reliable measurements. In some cases, we may suggest temporary adjustments to improve the building’s readiness for the test.
2. Setting Up the Air Permeability Testing Equipment
   We deploy a calibrated blower door system, which includes a high-powered fan mounted in a secure frame fitted to an exterior door. When the fan is activated, it pressurises or depressurises the building, causing air to move through any unsealed gaps. This setup is connected to a gauge that measures the pressure difference between the building's interior and exterior, allowing us to calculate the rate of air leakage accurately.
3. Identifying Air Permeability Issues
   While the blower door is operating, our skilled technicians systematically inspect common areas of air permeability leakage, such as window frames, door seals, loft hatches, and electrical outlets. We also examine less obvious spots, including recessed lighting, wall-to-floor junctions, and plumbing penetrations. To enhance detection, we may use tools like smoke pencils or infrared cameras to visualise airflow and temperature variations, enabling us to locate even the smallest leaks.
4. Air Permeability Analysis and Reporting
   After completing the test, we analyse the data to assess the building's overall air permeability, expressed as the air changes per hour (ACH). A lower ACH indicates better sealing and reduced air leakage. We then provide our client with a comprehensive report detailing the findings, including leakage locations, recommended sealing strategies, and estimates of potential energy savings from addressing the identified issues.

Air leaks can often be found in the following locations:

• Plumbing and wiring penetrations in walls, floors, or ceilings, which can allow unwanted airflow.
• Recessed lighting fixtures, often acting as unintentional vents for air leakage.
• Loft hatches and gaps in loft insulation, commonly overlooked sources of air escape.
• Electrical outlets and switches on external walls, where even small gaps can contribute to drafts.
• Around doors and windows, where age or poor installation can result in noticeable air leaks.
• Ceiling and wall joints, where tiny cracks or gaps in drywall can reduce efficiency.
• Fireplaces and chimneys, which, if not properly sealed, can lead to significant air loss.

There are many benefits to conducting air permeability testing, and with Bright Home Surveys, you can trust our expertise to deliver valuable insights and practical recommendations tailored to your property.

1. Greater Indoor Comfort
   Addressing air leaks and enhancing a property’s air permeability significantly reduces drafts and temperature inconsistencies. This results in warmer spaces during winter, cooler rooms in summer, and a consistently comfortable indoor environment throughout the year.
2. Enhanced Energy Efficiency
   By sealing gaps effectively, you can reduce heating and cooling costs by as much as 20-30%, as less energy is needed to maintain a stable indoor temperature. Air permeability testing helps ensure that your heating and cooling systems operate more efficiently, with less frequent usage.
3. Better Indoor Air Quality
   Uncontrolled air leakage can introduce outdoor pollutants, allergens, and unfiltered air, which negatively impact indoor air quality. By identifying and addressing these leaks, air permeability testing helps create a healthier, cleaner living environment while also reducing moisture infiltration and the associated risk of mould growth.
4. Reduced Environmental Impact
   Minimising energy loss through improved air permeability reduces your property’s carbon footprint. By conserving energy, you contribute to a more sustainable future, aligning with the values of environmentally conscious homeowners and businesses.
5. Compliance with Building Regulations
   Meeting air permeability standards is a requirement under UK Building Regulations for new constructions and major renovations. Failing to comply can result in penalties and delays. Our air permeability testing service ensures your property adheres to or exceeds these standards, providing both legal assurance and peace of mind.

Energy and home efficiency and performance assessments incuding air permeabilty testing and retrofit assessment