Air Pressure Testing For Dwellings
Why You Need Residential Air Pressure Testing
Residential air pressure testing is required for all new build dwellings to make sure the building meets or exceeds the air permeability rating specified in the design stage SAP calculations.
This is so the building complies with with Part L1A (England & Wales), Section 6 (Scotland) or Part F1 (Northern Ireland) of The Building Regulations. Although not required for extensions or conversions, many people have the test carried out for peace of mind.
Air leakage can cause you to lose up to 30% of a dwelling’s heat, making the building less energy efficient and more expensive to run. Therefore, making sure your property meets an acceptable air tightness standard reduces your energy bills and carbon footprint.
Testing With UKBC
UKBC will provide you with a site readiness checklist to help you determine when your building is ready. Our technicians calculate air tightness via the following process:
- We'll install a large fan temporarily, usually in a doorway.
- Next, we will temporarily seal openings to the property and switch the fan on.
- Air pressure is gradually increased and decreased, recording the pressure differential at each step.
- Finally, our technicians will calculate the total air flow required to achieve a pressure differential of 50 Pa, divided by the total building envelope area.
- This calculation will show leakage rate in m³/h.m² @ 50 Pa.
Whilst we are conducting your test, other contractors can continue work within the property. However, all windows and doors must remain closed for the duration of the test.
Share