ilmanvuototestillä

Ilmanvuototesti, known in English as an air leakage test or blower door test, is a method used to assess the airtightness of a building. It measures how much unconditioned outside air infiltrates into a building and how much conditioned air escapes. This is achieved by depressurizing or pressurizing the building envelope using a powerful fan, typically installed in a doorway. Sensors then measure the pressure difference between the inside and outside, and the airflow rate required to maintain that pressure difference.

The results of an ilmanvuototesti provide valuable information about the building's construction quality and energy efficiency. High levels of air leakage can lead to increased heating and cooling costs, discomfort due to drafts, and potential moisture problems that can damage building materials and affect indoor air quality. Identifying and quantifying these leaks is the first step in addressing them.

Common causes of air leakage include gaps around windows and doors, penetrations through the building envelope for pipes and wires, and poorly sealed joints in walls, floors, and ceilings. Once identified, these leaks can be sealed using materials like caulking, weatherstripping, or spray foam.

An ilmanvuototesti is often performed as part of energy audits or building commissioning processes. It can help architects, builders, and homeowners understand the performance of a building and make informed decisions about improvements. Different standards and units of measurement exist for reporting air leakage, with common ones including air changes per hour (ACH) at a specific pressure difference or a leakage rate per unit area.