Siseõhuvahetus

Siseõhuvahetus refers to the process of exchanging indoor air with outdoor air. This is a crucial aspect of maintaining healthy indoor environments and ensuring occupant comfort. Inadequate ventilation can lead to a buildup of pollutants, moisture, and stale air, potentially causing a range of problems including headaches, fatigue, and the exacerbation of respiratory conditions.

There are several methods for achieving siseõhuvahetus. Natural ventilation relies on passive air movement, often facilitated by opening windows and doors, or through the use of ventilation grilles. This method is simple and cost-effective but can be dependent on external weather conditions and may not always provide sufficient air exchange. Mechanical ventilation systems, such as exhaust fans or central ventilation units, actively move air in and out of a building using fans. Heat recovery ventilators (HRVs) and energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) are advanced mechanical systems that pre-condition incoming fresh air using the energy from outgoing stale air, thereby reducing heating and cooling loads.

The rate of siseõhuvahetus is typically measured in air changes per hour (ACH) or liters per second per person. Building codes and ventilation standards often specify minimum requirements for siseõhuvahetus to ensure adequate indoor air quality. Factors influencing the required rate include building occupancy, building type, and the presence of potential indoor air pollutants. Proper siseõhuvahetus is essential for comfort, health, and the preservation of building integrity by controlling humidity levels.