The Washington State University Extension Energy Program (WSU) was directed by the Washington State Department of Commerce to identify, solicit, and provide equipment and training to grant recipients who will deliver air leakage testing services in the state of Washington for Washington State Energy Code (WSEC) compliance. The 2009 WSEC requires air leakage testing for all new construction in Washington State. This program is supported by funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act through the Washington Department of Commerce. All Islands Home Inspections was one of only forty grant recipients statewide.

Tim Hance, founder of All Islands Home Inspections, applied for this grant as it logically supports his home inspection and energy auditing businesses and fills a newly established niche market. “Air leakage through leaky ducts and inadequately sealed buildings can account for up to a 40% loss of conditioned (heated) air in a residential home. Blower door and duct blaster testing accurately measures this air leakage in a home and its ducting and identifies the areas that require air sealing. This is an important test to conduct not only for new construction- now required by the 2009 WSEC- but also for existing homes. Up to 40% heat loss represents a significant cost and energy savings for the homeowner. In conducting energy audits, I find that over 80% of the homes I audit could significantly benefit from air sealing.”

For information about Air Leakage Testing, Energy Audits, and Home Inspections, call Tim Hance of All Islands Home Inspections at (360) 298-1163. All Islands Home Inspections serves all of San Juan, Skagit, Island, and Whatcom counties.