Setting up equipment
Check wind conditions
Check the wind speed is below maximum limit of 6 m/s (13 mph) using either anemometer or local weather observation (e.g. Met Office/BBC).
Position equipment
Position air receivers in the centre of the building/room at least 1m away from obstructions (e.g. walls, doors, large furniture).
Locate controller
Locate the controller either at the base of the air receiver or 3m+ away, with the lid open and facing the air receivers.
Charge air receivers
Connect all equipment together, turn the power on and charge the air receivers to the desired initial pressure.
Prepare the building
Close external doors
Close all external windows, doors and hatches to any unheated spaces (e.g. garage, loft, conservatory, service risers).
Close external windows
Close all external windows, trickle vents and other closeable vents.
Open internal doors
Open internal doors including large cupboards (e.g. under stairs/airing)
Fill water traps
In new build properties, ensure all water traps and toilets are filled with water.
Seal intended ventilation
Turn off and seal purpose provided ventilation devices (e.g. extract fans, cooker hoods, permanently open vents, ventilation openings).
Measure enclosure dimensions
Measure the dimensions of the building or room that is being tested to obtain the total enclosed volume and external envelope area.
Running a test
Enter building information
Enter required building information into the controller software, including a test reference and address or plot number.
Notify occupants
Make all occupants of the property aware that a Pulse test is about to be performed.
Begin test
Launch the test cycle and ensure no movement within the building whilst the test is in progress.
Check results
Check that results are valid. If achieved pressure is too low, use an additional air receiver. If achieved pressure is too high, charge tank to lower pressure and re-test.
Invalid results
If R2 or N values are out of range, check that wind speed is low enough, that the equipment is all in free air and that no element of the building fabric is loose and moving excessively under test e.g. loose plasterboard, service hatch or window/door that isn’t properly closed.