Ilmavirtahäviö

Ilmavirtahäviö is a Finnish term that translates to "airflow loss" or "air leakage" in English. It refers to the unintended escape of air from a sealed or designed enclosure, such as a building, ventilation system, or ductwork. This leakage can occur through cracks, gaps, or permeable materials.

In buildings, ilmavirtahäviö is a significant factor affecting energy efficiency and indoor air quality. When conditioned air (heated or cooled) escapes, it leads to increased energy consumption as the heating or cooling system has to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. Conversely, unconditioned outside air entering the building can compromise indoor comfort and introduce pollutants.

Ilmavirtahäviö can be caused by various issues, including poor construction practices, aging building materials, damaged seals, and inadequate insulation. Identifying and mitigating these leaks is crucial for improving a building's thermal performance and creating a healthier indoor environment. Common methods for detecting ilmavirtahäviö include blower door tests and thermal imaging. Once identified, sealing techniques such as caulking, weatherstripping, and specialized tapes are employed to reduce or eliminate the leakage. In ventilation systems, ilmavirtahäviö can reduce the effectiveness of air distribution and lead to uneven temperatures within a space.