Ventilation
Testing.
On-site extract fan flow testing for completed installations. EBSNI measures and records airflow to help project teams check installed performance against the applicable requirements, with coordinated visits available alongside airtightness testing.
Measured airflow at agreed extract points
Results checked against the agreed criteria
Plan alongside airtightness testing
Location-specific scope and reporting
What Is
Ventilation Testing?
Extract fan flow testing measures the airflow delivered by an installed fan or extract point. The measured result is recorded with the location and operating setting so it can be checked against the applicable design or regulatory requirement.
A fan’s catalogue rating is not the same as its measured performance once installed. Duct routes, terminals, installation quality and operating settings can affect the flow achieved on site.
EBSNI provides extract fan flow testing for project teams preparing for completion and handover. The agreed report records the measured results and any shortfalls. Ventilation design, installation and MVHR commissioning are separate from this service.
Ventilation Requirements
Across the UK & Ireland.
The required airflow, installation checks and reporting depend on the building, ventilation system and applicable regulations. We confirm the test scope and acceptance criteria before attending.
Northern Ireland
In Northern Ireland, Technical Booklet K provides guidance on ventilation requirements. The installation and its supporting records must be appropriate to the building and proposed system.
We agree which extract points and operating settings need testing and what information the project team requires for completion.
England & Wales
England and Wales have separate Approved Document F guidance. Airflow testing and commissioning records form part of the relevant mechanical ventilation requirements.
The applicable regulatory edition and transition arrangements must be checked for the project. We confirm the extract-fan testing scope rather than assuming every system has the same requirements.
Scotland
Section 3.14 of the Scottish Domestic Technical Handbook addresses ventilation, supported by Scottish ventilation guidance. The relevant handbook and system determine the evidence needed.
Test records should be coordinated with the project’s commissioning information and verifier requirements. Extract fan flow testing is not a substitute for the complete system handover.
Republic of Ireland
In the Republic of Ireland, Technical Guidance Document F and associated guidance address ventilation installation, commissioning and validation.
The project team must establish any separate validation and competency requirements. Our extract-fan testing scope is confirmed in advance and should not be assumed to include full ventilation validation.
A measured fan flow is one part of the ventilation evidence. It does not demonstrate that every ventilation, indoor air quality or commissioning requirement has been met. The designer and installer remain responsible for their respective system requirements and records.
Plan the Test Visit
Before Handover.
Confirm the test schedule while the installation programme is being coordinated. Fans, ducts, terminals and controls need to be complete and operational before the agreed airflow checks can be carried out.
Send the room and fan schedule, required flow rates and operating settings in advance. We can plan the extract tests alongside an airtightness visit where the readiness and test setup for both services can be accommodated.
A Clear Route
from Installation to Test Record.
We confirm what needs checking, attend the prepared site, record the agreed measurements and report the results to the project team.
Confirm the Scope
Send the location, building type, fan schedule, required airflow rates and completion programme. We agree the points and settings to be tested.
→Check the Installation
We confirm access and the readiness of the agreed test points. Incomplete installations or missing criteria may prevent testing.
→Measure the Airflow
Airflow is measured at the agreed extract points using suitable equipment and the appropriate test procedure, with the location and setting recorded.
→Issue the Results
We supply the agreed test record and identify any measured shortfalls for the responsible team to investigate. A retest can be arranged after corrective work.
✓Preparing Your Site
for Ventilation Testing.
A ready installation and a clear test schedule help avoid repeat visits. Tell us about access restrictions or incomplete work before the appointment.
Common Questions.
What does extract fan flow testing measure?
It measures the airflow achieved at the agreed installed extract point and operating setting. The result can then be compared with the applicable design or regulatory criterion. It is different from relying on a manufacturer’s rated fan output.
When should the tests be carried out?
Arrange testing once the fans, ducts, terminals, electrical supply and relevant controls are complete and operational, with safe access available. Schedule the visit before handover so the installation team has time to address any shortfalls.
Can ventilation and airtightness tests be completed in one visit?
Often they can be coordinated, provided both installations and the building are ready and the respective test setups can be accommodated. Send the programme and scope for both services so the visit and testing order can be agreed.
What happens if an extract fan does not achieve the required flow?
We record the measured shortfall and report it to the project team. The responsible installer investigates and completes any necessary corrective work. A further test can be arranged once the installation is ready; a satisfactory result cannot be guaranteed in advance.
Does this include MVHR commissioning or ventilation design?
No. This service covers the agreed extract fan flow tests. MVHR commissioning, ventilation design and a full system validation or commissioning service should not be assumed to be included. The required scope is confirmed before booking.
What information will the test record contain?
The agreed report identifies the test locations, operating settings, measured flows and the criteria used to assess them, together with relevant observations or limitations. It supports the completion records but does not replace every document needed for system commissioning or regulatory approval.
A Completed Installation.
A Measured Result.
For a dwelling approaching handover, the team confirms the required flows and prepares the installed fans for testing. Measured results are recorded against the agreed criteria, with shortfalls returned to the installer for investigation before any necessary retest.
Discuss Your ProjectDiscuss Your Ventilation Testing
Send the site location, fan schedule and programme. We will confirm the test scope and whether an airtightness visit can be coordinated. Part of the Newell Group.
