t: 01455 883 250 • www.elmhurstenergy.co.uk
5
Background Ventilation Testing How do I become a Background Ventilation Tester? To become a Background Ventilation Tester you will need to successfully complete our two day Background Ventilation Assessment of Existing Dwellings training course, and then submit the Elmhurst Airtightness Scheme (EAS) application form.
Jennifer Hartley, EAS Coordinator
Earlier this year Elmhurst launched its background ventilation training and scheme. This new area of testing is especially suited to existing airtightness testers, and Retrofit Coordinators and Assessors. But what exactly is background ventilation testing? We explain a bit more below… What is background ventilation testing? Background ventilation testing is a type of test carried out to assess the background ventilation of existing dwellings. The Insulation Assurance Authority Commercial Services (IAA CS) has developed a TrustMark approved process for this assessment, which is an
approach to address background ventilation requirements under pathway A and B of PAS 2035. It also provides an alternative for pathway C, whilst not replacing the airtightness testing requirements. If you are not familiar with PAS 2035, it is an energy efficiency retrofit standard for Government funded measures, providing best practice guidance for domestic retrofit projects. Carrying out testing pre and post energy efficiency measures will provide evidence as to whether additional background ventilation is required. This may negate the need to install additional ventilation such as trickle vents or door undercuts. This process has been written to allow both Pulse and blower door fan users to carry out background ventilation testing.
The IAA CS is also one of our approved training providers, so if you have already passed their ventilation & airtightness training course you can apply to become a Background Ventilation Tester registered with EAS by completing the application form. Please note that should you wish to carry out background ventilation testing for PAS2035 purposes, along with being a member of a Competent Person Scheme for airtightness testing, you will also need to be a member of The IAA scheme at an additional cost of £250 per annum. You can find out more information about the IAA on their website: https://www.theiaa.co.uk/faqmyth-buster/ Should you wish to carry out background ventilation testing on existing dwellings for purposes other than PAS 2035, then IAA membership is not required. For more information please visit the EAS website www.elmhurstairtightnessscheme.co.uk
