Blower Door / Envelope Testing Certification: Ensuring Compliance and Energy Efficiency in Florida

Effective July 1, 2017, the Florida Building Code, Energy Conservation Version 5, mandated air infiltration testing—commonly referred to as blower door testing—for all newly constructed homes and residential units in the state. This critical step ensures compliance with energy efficiency standards, reducing energy waste and promoting more sustainable homes.

What is Blower Door Testing?

Blower door testing measures the airtightness of a building’s envelope. It identifies air leaks and ensures the home meets energy efficiency requirements by controlling unwanted air infiltration and improving HVAC system performance.

Who Can Perform Blower Door Testing in Florida?

According to Sections R402.4.1.2 and R104.5 of the Florida Building Code, blower door tests must be conducted by an approved third party Energy Auditor or Energy Rater. To qualify, these professionals must hold certification from:

  • The Building Performance Institute (BPI)

  • The Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET)

Two Trails: Certified Blower Door Testing Experts

At Two Trails, we are a certified third-party provider of blower door testing, offering expert services to ensure your residential property meets Florida’s rigorous energy conservation standards. Our team is certified by both BPI and RESNET, guaranteeing a thorough and accurate assessment for your new construction project.

Why Blower Door Testing is Essential

  1. Compliance with Florida Building Code

    • A blower door test is mandatory for homes permitted after July 1, 2017 to meet the state’s energy efficiency requirements.

  2. Improved Energy Efficiency

    • Ensures homes are built with a tightly sealed envelope, reducing energy waste and enhancing HVAC system performance.

  3. Lower Utility Bills

    • Airtight homes consume less energy for heating and cooling, leading to significant cost savings over time.

  4. Enhanced Comfort

    • Identifies and eliminates drafts, providing a more consistent indoor temperature and improved comfort for occupants.

  5. Environmental Impact

    • Reduced energy consumption lowers greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a more sustainable environment.

The Two Trails Advantage

  • Certified Expertise: Our team is certified by BPI and RESNET, meeting all requirements to conduct blower door testing in Florida.

  • Comprehensive Testing: We use state-of-the-art equipment and methodologies to deliver precise and reliable results.

  • Hassle-Free Process: From scheduling to documentation, we handle the entire process, ensuring compliance with local codes and regulations.

  • Industry Experience: With years of experience in energy efficiency and building performance, we provide trusted guidance for residential projects of all sizes.

How Blower Door Testing Works

  1. Preparation

    • We seal all exterior openings and install a specialized fan to pressurize or depressurize the home.

  2. Testing

    • The blower door fan creates a pressure difference, allowing us to measure air leakage and pinpoint areas that need improvement.

  3. Results and Reporting

    • A detailed report is provided, indicating the home’s air leakage rate and any recommendations for improvement, ensuring it meets Florida code requirements.

Partner with Two Trails for Compliance and Efficiency

Whether you're a builder, contractor, or homeowner, blower door testing is a critical step in ensuring your residential property complies with Florida’s energy code. At Two Trails, we deliver certified testing services with precision, reliability, and efficiency.

Contact us today to schedule your blower door test and take the first step toward energy efficiency, cost savings, and compliance.