Retrotec Blower Door & Duct Leakage Testing in Chicagoland

Measure Diagnose Improve


GSHA Services, LTD uses Retrotec-certified testing equipment to precisely measure how much air leaks from your home or ductwork—so you can enjoy better comfort, lower energy bills, and full compliance with local energy codes.

What Is Air Leakage Testing?

Air leakage testing measures how tightly your home and duct systems hold air. Using specialized Retrotec blower door and duct pressurization systems, our technicians identify where unwanted air escapes or enters your home.

These tests are essential for:

  • Ensuring energy efficiency and comfort
  • Meeting IECC code compliance for new construction or remodeling
  • Qualifying for energy rebates and incentives
  • Diagnosing comfort issues such as drafts or uneven temperatures

Blower Door Test (Whole-Home Air Leakage)

A blower door test measures how airtight your entire home is. We mount a Retrotec fan in an exterior doorway and gently pressurize or depressurize the building. This allows us to measure the total air leakage rate (CFM@50 Pa or ACH50) and locate problem areas.

Benefits of a Blower Door Test

  • Identify and seal drafts, leaks, and gaps in the building envelope
  • Improve indoor comfort and air quality
  • Lower heating and cooling costs
  • Meet IECC code and ENERGY STAR requirements

Typical applications:
✅ New construction or renovations
✅ Permit documentation and code verification
✅ Energy audits or comfort diagnostics

Duct Leakage Test (HVAC System Leakage)

A duct leakage test measures how much air escapes from your HVAC duct system before it reaches your rooms. We seal off registers, attach a calibrated Retrotec duct fan, and pressurize the system to measure air loss (CFM25 or % leakage).

A duct leakage test measures how much air escapes from your HVAC duct system before it reaches your rooms. We seal off registers, attach a calibrated Retrotec duct fan, and pressurize the system to measure air loss (CFM25 or % leakage).

Why Test Your Ducts?

  • Up to 30% of conditioned air can be lost through leaks in ducts
  • Sealed ducts reduce energy waste and improve airflow
  • Helps your HVAC system run quieter, more efficiently, and longer
  • Required for many Illinois Energy Code inspections and utility rebate programs

Why Air Leakage Testing Matters

When your home or ducts leak air, you’re paying to heat and cool the outdoors. Proper testing helps you:

  • Save energy and money by reducing wasted air
  • Eliminate drafts for consistent comfort
  • Protect indoor air quality by keeping pollutants and moisture out
  • Document performance for code compliance, rebates, or certification
  • Extend equipment life by reducing unnecessary HVAC workload

Our Testing Process

  1. Setup – We close exterior openings, set up Retrotec fans and pressure gauges.
  2. Measurement – We record air flow and pressure differentials at multiple test points.
  3. Leak Detection – Using smoke pencils and thermal imaging, we pinpoint leakage sites.
  4. Analysis – Data is processed into a clear report, including pass/fail status if applicable.
  5. Recommendations – We suggest targeted air sealing or duct sealing improvements.

Average Test Time: 60–120 minutes for most homes.
Reports are delivered same or next business day.

How to Prepare for Testing

Before your appointment:

  • Close all exterior windows and doors
  • Open all interior doors
  • Turn off exhaust fans, dryers, and fireplaces
  • Ensure the main entry area is clear
  • Secure pets safely away from the testing area

What You’ll Receive

  • Professional Retrotec test results with key metrics (ACH50, CFM25, % leakage)
  • Pass/fail documentation for inspectors or energy programs
  • Photos and notes identifying major leak areas
  • Prioritized recommendations for sealing or repairs

Pricing & Scheduling

Every home and system is unique.
Contact GSHA Services today for a quick, transparent quote — and ask about same-day testing when paired with an HVAC or electrical service visit.

📞 Call or Text: (224) 220-3660
📅 Request a Quote Online: Fast reports. Clear results. Done right.

FAQs

Is air leakage testing required for permits?
In many municipalities, yes — Illinois Energy Code requires documentation of home and duct tightness for new construction and major renovations. We provide certified results inspectors accept.

Will testing harm my home or system?
No. Pressure levels are safe—similar to a windy day—and the test doesn’t damage any materials or equipment.

Do I need to leave during testing?
No. You can stay; we may ask you to open or close doors as we check airflow.

Can you repair leaks you find?
Yes. We offer air sealing, duct sealing, insulation upgrades, and HVAC optimization to solve any issues detected during testing.

Why Choose GSHA Services, LTD

  • Certified technicians trained on Retrotec diagnostic equipment
  • Licensed, bonded, and insured in Illinois
  • Trusted by homeowners, builders, and inspectors across Chicagoland
  • Fast scheduling, clear documentation, honest results
  • Locally owned and operated — customer satisfaction guaranteed

Service Area

We proudly serve the entire Chicagoland area, including:
Naperville, Schaumburg, Arlington Heights, Chicago, Aurora, Elgin, Oak Brook, Northbrook, and surrounding suburbs.
Not sure if you’re in range? Just call or text — we’ll confirm.

Ready to Schedule Air Leakage Testing?

📞 Call (224) 220-3656
✉️ Request Online Quote — Fast Response

Retrotec-certified results. Guaranteed accuracy.
Energy code compliance made simple — only with GSHA Services, LTD.