QED Lab, Inc.

  In Boise’s construction industry, energy efficiency and building performance are more important than ever. One tool that builders and contractors rely on is Blower Door Testing . This test not only ensures buildings meet energy codes but also helps deliver homes and commercial spaces that are comfortable, durable, and efficient. By including Blower Door Testing in project specifications, Boise builders can stay ahead of code requirements while creating spaces that truly stand out. Understanding Blower Door Testing Blower Door Testing is a diagnostic process used to measure how airtight a building is. A large fan is placed in an exterior doorway and used to pressurize or depressurize the structure. The change in pressure allows testers to see how much air escapes through gaps, cracks, or poorly sealed areas in the building envelope. The results are given in air changes per hour (ACH), which tell builders how well a building holds conditioned air. For Boise contractors, this data i...

As energy efficiency codes tighten in Idaho and across the nation, Blower Door Testing in Boise has become an essential part of residential and commercial construction. For builders and contractors, understanding how to comply with standards like ASTM E779 and ASTM E1827 in Boise can help you deliver higher-performing buildings, pass inspections, and avoid costly delays. What Is Blower Door Testing? Blower door testing  measures the airtightness of a building. Using a powerful calibrated fan mounted in an exterior doorway, the test depressurizes (or pressurizes) the structure to detect air leakage. Specialized gauges record airflow and pressure differences, revealing how much outside air enters through leaks in the building envelope. In Boise, blower door testing is used to comply with energy codes such as the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) adopted by the City of Boise and surrounding Ada County jurisdictions. This test verifies that homes and commercial buildings me...

Currently, there is an update in the Washington State Energy Code (WSEC), and it is the responsibility of the commercial builders to ensure that they keep up with the changes. All these changes are made to increase energy conservation, decrease carbon footprint, and ensure whether a new building construction or an existing one needs to meet sustainability standards. Meeting the new requirements can assist the builders in addressing legal issues and choosing efficient energy solutions. This post will discuss the significant changes in the WA State Energy Code and what commercial construction contractors should consider. What is the Washington State Energy Code (WSEC)? The WSEC, also called the Washington Administrative Code, defines the minimum level of energy utilization in buildings. It prescribes how buildings should be planned and constructed and how they should be used in terms of energy. The plan is to minimize energy usage, cut costs, and protect the environment. These codes are ...

Have you ever wondered why your air conditioner or heater has to work so hard? Or why your room feels too cold in the winter and too hot in the summer? A major reason for this could be air leakage, or air seeping out of your home. This is a common problem that not only inflates your energy bills but also affects your home’s comfort and your family’s health. In this blog post, we’ll explain what air leakage testing is, why it’s so important, and the benefits it offers. What Is Air Leakage Testing? Imagine your home is a big, airtight container. Air leakage testing is like performing a check-up on that container to find any hidden gaps, cracks, or openings that are letting air sneak in or out. It’s a precise process that uses specialized equipment to pressurize or depressurize your home, revealing the invisible pathways that are causing drafts and wasting energy. Essentially, it helps you pinpoint exactly where your home’s “envelope” isn’t sealed properly so you can fix it and make you...