The Air Test A Comprehensive Guide for Your Construction Project

When it comes to making buildings energy-efficient and ensuring long-term sustainability, the more airtight, the better. That’s where the air test comes in. Whether you’re a builder, architect, or developer, understanding this crucial test can help your project comply with regulations and hit energy efficiency targets.

This guide covers everything you need to know about air pressure testing, also known simply as the air test. Along the way, we’ll explore key aspects like SAP calculations, SBEM calculations, and overheating risk assessments, which all work hand-in-hand to help you meet compliance requirements.

What is the Air Test?

The air test, or air pressure test, measures how much air a building loses through uncontrolled gaps, cracks, and leaks. Conducted at different stages of construction, this test ensures your building complies with environmental standards while keeping energy costs low for future occupants.

The airtightness of a building is expressed as air permeability, which is a measurement of how much air escapes per hour (m³/h) for every square meter of the building’s envelope, when subjected to a pressure difference.

Builders often refer to Approved Document L of the UK Building Regulations, which outlines energy efficiency requirements. The air test plays a critical role in meeting these standards by ensuring unnecessary heat loss is minimized.

Why Do You Need an Air Test?

An air test is more than just a box to tick for compliance. It offers significant benefits that impact not only the project itself but also long-term energy efficiency:

• Compliance with Building Regulations: Most new builds must undergo an air test as per UK Building Regulations Part L.
• Energy Efficiency: Airtight buildings retain heat better, reducing both energy consumption and bills.
• Lower Carbon Footprint: Reduced energy usage means fewer carbon emissions, helping meet sustainability goals.
• Improved Indoor Comfort: A well-sealed home maintains a consistent temperature and minimizes drafts, improving the occupants’ comfort.

When Is an Air Test Needed?

An air test is typically conducted:

• For newly built dwellings or commercial buildings.
• When undergoing major renovations or conversions.
• For existing buildings requiring enhanced energy performance.

Timing is key. Air tests are usually scheduled at the later stages of construction, once all windows, doors, and sealants are in place, but before final decorations such as painting.

The Process of Air Pressure Testing

Air pressure testing follows a standard process conducted by a certified technician. Here’s how it works:

1. Preparation

Before the test begins, the property must be prepared:

• • Close and seal all external openings (windows, doors, vents).
  • Turn off HVAC systems and shut internal doors.
  • Notify the engineer of any potential weak points in the build.

2. Setting Up the Equipment

A large fan (usually placed in the main entrance) pressurizes the building by blowing air in or out. The change in pressure allows the engineer to detect areas where air is leaking.

3. Pressure Measurements

Using specialized equipment, the engineer calculates the amount of air escaping the building, thereby determining its permeability score.

4. Reporting

After the test, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining the results. If the building doesn’t meet regulatory requirements, the technician will recommend steps to fix the leaks.

The Role of SAP and SBEM Calculations in the Air Test

The air test doesn’t exist in a silo. It directly impacts the required SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) calculations for residential projects and SBEM (Simplified Building Energy Model) calculations for commercial projects.

SAP Calculations

SAP calculations evaluate the energy efficiency of new residential buildings. The air test data feeds into these calculations, as a low permeability score significantly improves the SAP rating.

SBEM Calculations

For commercial builds, SBEM calculations assess the building’s energy performance. The tighter the building’s envelope (thanks to the air test), the better the SBEM results, ensuring compliance with BRUKL reports.

What is an Overheating Risk Assessment?

Buildings that are too airtight can sometimes trap more heat than is desirable. Enter the overheating risk assessment, which evaluates whether a building’s design prevents excessive indoor temperatures during the summer months. While the goal is to minimize energy loss, balancing it against overheating is essential for occupant comfort and safety.

Steps to avoid overheating include:

• Strategic use of shading (e.g., blinds or overhangs).
• Optimizing window placement and ventilation.
• Incorporating cooling technologies when necessary.

Top Tips for Passing an Air Test

Striving to pass your air test the first time? Here are some essential tips to ensure success:

1. Seal Gaps Early:

Use airtight membranes, sealants, and tapes during early construction to minimize gaps.

2. Pay Attention to Junctions:

Walls, floors, and roofs are common trouble areas for leaks.

3. Consult an Expert:

Certified air test providers like EPS offer guidance before and after testing to address any issues.

4. Conduct Preliminary Tests:

Pre-tests during construction help catch problems early.

5. Ensure Proper Insulation:

Effective insulation complements airtightness efforts.

Why EPS Group Is the Trusted Provider for Air Tests

Working with reliable experts is key to your project’s success. That’s where EPS Group comes in. Our certified technicians have years of experience in:

• Domestic Air Tightness Testing
• Commercial Air Tightness Testing
• SAP and SBEM Calculations
• Overheating Risk Assessments

We help streamline compliance with UK Building Regulations, ensuring your project stays on time, on budget, and energy-efficient.

Next Steps to Ensure Compliance

The air test is more than just a legal requirement; it’s a valuable step toward building efficient, sustainable spaces. By understanding the process and addressing airtightness early, you can reduce long-term energy costs and enhance property value.

Are you ready to ensure your next project complies with regulations? Get in touch with our team at EPS Group for expert air testing, SAP and SBEM calculations, and more.