Highlights
A blower door test can help you save money on utility bills.
A pro does the test by fitting your door with a powerful fan to suck air out of your house.
The test can gauge differences in air pressure.
Contractors typically charge per home rather than per door.
More expensive blower tests will likely include a walkthrough with a thermal imager.
A blower door test is a great way to know whether your home is leaking precious heat or air conditioning. The typical cost for a blower door test is between $200 and $450, with most homeowners paying an average of $325. Here’s a close look at all blower door test costs, including whether you can DIY.
Average Cost for a Blower Door Test
The average cost for a blower door test is $325, though the cost may range between $200 and $450. The cost can save you money in the long run, though, by locating door air leaks.
The cost of a blower door test covers the actual testing process that involves fitting a door with a powerful fan to suck air out of your house as a way to gauge differences in air pressure. In addition, local energy audit companies provide reports of their findings.
Your blower door test report will include details about the locations in your home where air leakages are occurring. Next, the certified testing professionals you choose will also include some suggested measures for reducing leakage to make your home more energy efficient.
Lastly, your report may include some pricing options for sealing or caulking sources of air leaks in your home.
Blower Door Test Cost By Home Type
While certified blower door testers typically charge flat rates per home, the type of home can influence the cost.
Single-Family Home
Expect to pay somewhere within the range of $200 to $450 if you have a standard one-story or two-story home.
Duplexes
If you have a duplex, your blower door test will cost more. Prices for blower door tests at duplexes typically range from $400 to $800.
Apartment Complexes
If you have a multi-unit property, you’ll likely need to get a custom quote.
DIY vs. Hire a Blower Door Test Pro
You might see DIY blower door test tips online, but this is a job best left to a professional. You’d very likely have a hard time recreating the high-powered diagnostic tools pros use, so your results won’t be accurate.
Blower door testing should also be performed by certified energy auditors with Building Performance Institutes (BPI) and Duct Leakage (IDL) certifications. Energy efficiency programs that provide rebates and incentives won't recognize results that don't come from BPI-certified contractors.
FAQs
What does a blower door test tell you?
A blower door test uses a high-suction fan to determine how airtight your home is to gauge your energy efficiency level. You can use the results of your test to make energy-efficient upgrades at your home to save on energy costs.
Are blower door tests free?
Some contractors offer free blower door tests as part of a free home energy audit to help detect heat loss. However, this is not the standard. Typically, a home energy audit costs around $400. Research your state's home energy audit program to see if any rebates are available that will cover the cost.
Are blower door tests needed if I build a new home?
Many states require all new constructions to undergo blower door tests. However, many homeowners living in older homes use these tests to see how airtight their homes are in order to make updates that will reduce energy waste.
Can an energy auditor help to seal my home following a blower door test?
BPI-certified contractors will be able to provide quotes for caulking, sealing, door replacement, and other measures that help to reduce air leakage if the results of your blower door test show that your home is not energy efficient.
Can I do a blower door test myself?
DIY blower door tests aren't accurate, so it’s best to hire a BPI-certified energy auditor.
