Air Tightness Testing
PS Energy Rating offers air tightness testing for residential dwellings. The revised building regulations (24th January 2008) introduce mandatory air pressure testing for new dwellings.*All new single dwellings will require an air pressure test from 1st July 2008. Guidelines have been set out in relation to developments. These guidelines are outlined below.
The aim of air tightness testing is to measure the flow of air within a building and identify areas that are experiencing heat loss.
What are the guidelines in relation to developments?
| Number of Units | Number of Tests Required |
| 1-4 | One Test ** |
| 5-40 | Two Tests |
| 41-100 | 5% of Dwelling Type |
| (if target is reached | 2% |
| 101+ (if target is not reached) | 5% |
* The regulations apply to new dwellings where planning permission has been applied for on or after the 1st July 2008 and where substantial works are not completed before the 30th June 2009.
** For small developments, no more than three dwelling units, a specific pressure test may not be necessary. If it can be demonstrated by way of a report that during the preceding 12 months a dwelling of the same type constructed by the same builder achieved an acceptable standard.
What is Air Tightness?
Air tightness measures the flow of air in and out of a building. Air leakage is the uncontrolled flow of air through gaps and cracks in the fabric of a building. Improving air tightness in a dwelling can reduce air leakage. The aim of air tightness is to “build tight, ventilate right”. This means that there are no breaks or gaps in the envelope of the building fabric and there is complete control over the ventilation system within the building. Having an airtight property does not mean there is insufficient air flow, it means there is controlled air flow. The only satisfactory way to measure air tightness is by using blower door test equipment.
Air tightness testing highlights areas of heat loss. These areas are increasing your energy consumption and, with it, the amount of money your property is wasting. Air tightness and thermal imaging can locate these areas and therefore allow you to make the necessary changes to increase the energy efficiency of your home.
How do I find out more?
Simply contact us or call PS Energy Rating on 087 9104481 and we will be more than happy to deal with any query you may have. We’re waiting for your call.
