At ATSPACE, we aim to provide the best possible service possible. This includes helping you achieve your air pressure target. Every air test that we carry out, the client will receive a checklist prior to our visit with helpful tips to ensure that you can achieve the air test result that you require.
Take a copy of the floor plan for the building to be tested, and draw a line around the external envelope. Every point where this line is penetrated is a possible source of leakage during the air tightness test.
Temporary sealing is only permitted on extraction fans, ventilation systems or unconnected waste pipes.
All windows and doors should be fully fitted and working. Make sure they are well sealed prior to any test. Access doors, including internal garage doors, cannot be temporarily sealed in advance of the test and should be air tight. Close trickle vents.
Ensure all service (water, gas, electric) entry points are sealed. Where waste pipes exit the building, make sure they are properly sealed, where boxed in, make sure the boxing is sealed.
Loft hatches should be fitted. Skirting boards should be fitted and sealed. Pay particular attention to any plumbing or electrical work, ensure the work is complete and all sockets are fitted. Radiator and boiler pipes are sealed.
Sanitary fittings should have water in the traps. If they are not fitted, make sure the waste pipes are temporarily sealed. Check the waste pipe for the washing machine, and sink waste is capped if not in use.
A power supply should be connected to the building or available. If possible parking close to the property, depending on the size of the property, there could be quite a lot of kit required for the air test.
In short, ensure the finish is complete. The better the finish, the better the result. Should there be an issue with your air tightness test and the required leakage rate is not achieved, our test engineer will endeavour to find the cause of the problem and source of the leakage.
If there is time permitted within the allocated time allowed for the test, the client will have time to rectify the problem. This will however depend on how complex the issue is. In some cases, it may not be possible to resolve the problem at the time of the test. If this is the case, the test engineer will advise on what action should be taken.