Retrotec Residential Pressure & Air Leakage - Manual (Page 13)

Page 13 of 75
Consistency
Testing methods and house preparation must be consistent, in order to make test results comparable. This is
particularly important during retrofitting, as it is important to know how a house performs before and after a
retrofit.
Avoid Mess and Trouble
Extensive repair and cleaning costs can result from a poorly prepared enclosure. Ceiling tiles and other loose
objects can all be damaged by the airflow created during a test. Watch out for fireplace soot especially.
Speak with the owner/occupants
Before beginning any preparation or testing, always explain to the occupants the testing procedure and what
needs to be done. In most cases, access will be required to all areas of the house or enclosure. Advanced
warning to the owner/occupants will allow them to protect valuables, and make arrangements for their time. In
all cases, the test requires that all exhaust fans be off during the test, including turning the furnace/air
conditioner off for the few minutes while the test is being conducted.
It is important that the homeowner not turn anything back on while the test is being performed without
checking with testing staff first.
2.2 Preparation Checklist
Use the House Preparation Checklist on every test to ensure all preparation and safety checks are made on each
test. Review the checklist afterwards to ensure the house is returned to its original condition.
Table 2: House Preparation Checklist
Before After
Task Notes
House envelope preparation
Select most appropriate doorway to install the Blower Door system
Close all exterior doors (except test doorway)
Door to basement, open if conditioned, close if not
Close all windows, storms, and skylights
Close all attic accesses inside the house
Seal any dog or cat doors with tape or grill mask
Close any fireplace dampers
Inside house preparation
Move any loose items in the direct path of the fan airflow
Open any interior doors to conditioned spaces
Remove fluorescent light & skylight diffusers
Turn off all ceiling fans
Check for any open flames or hot embers Immediately discontinue test if found
Cover any cold ashes
Buffer zones: open to the outside
Attic
Basement if unconditioned
Garage