An air leakage testing service has been launched by Chiltern Dynamics to help developers meet energy efficiency requirements in Part L of the Building Regulations.
The test, in accordance with CIBSE Technical Memoranda TM23:2000, involves a building nearing completion being pressurised to 50 Pascal using a fan system. Air leakage is then measured, taking anything from two hours to a full day, depending on size.
The Part L requirements, which come into force on October 1, 2003, stipulate an air permeability rate for new buildings. Buildings failing leakage tests before this date must undergo remedial work to improve performance.
