How to Estimate Natural Air Infiltration Rates

Air infiltration, sometimes referred to as natural or passive ventilation, is the measurement of air entering or leaving the house. This occurs naturally due to wind and differences between indoor and outdoor temperatures. Estimating the rate of infiltration helps determine the effectiveness of the insulation and weather stripping of the home.

Door blower system

Instructions

- 1
  Close all doors, windows and any other openings that would normally be closed during the winter heating system except for a single door.
- 2
  Mount the blower unit, including a temporary covering of the door, on the door. Along with a fan and covering, the unit includes air pressure gauges.
- 3
  Operate the fan blowing air out of the home. This lowers the air pressure within the home. Monitor the air pressure gauges included with the door blower unit assembly.
- 4
  Consult the charts included with the door blower system to determine the rate of air infiltration. The system compares the differences between the air pressure indoors and outdoors. Testing is performed in various methods and the length of time the blower is operated also plays a part. In the end, an estimate of the of the natural infiltration of the home is determined.

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