ilmanvuototestimillä

An ilmanvuototesti, or air leakage test, is a crucial diagnostic procedure used to identify uncontrolled air exchange in buildings. This test measures how much air escapes from or enters a building's envelope under specific pressure conditions. The primary goal is to quantify the airtightness of a structure, which has significant implications for energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and occupant comfort.

During an ilmanvuototesti, a calibrated fan, often referred to as a blower door, is installed in an exterior doorway. This fan is used to depressurize or pressurize the building to a set level, typically 50 Pascals (Pa). Sensitive pressure gauges and flow meters then measure the volume of air required to maintain this pressure differential. The results are often expressed as an air change rate per hour (ACH) at 50 Pa, denoted as ACH50. A lower ACH50 value indicates a more airtight building, which generally translates to better energy performance as less conditioned air is lost and less unconditioned air infiltrates.

Air leakage can occur through various openings in the building envelope, such as gaps around windows and doors, penetrations for pipes and electrical wiring, and cracks in walls, floors, and ceilings. Identifying these leaks is essential for effective building performance. After the initial test, a more detailed investigation using techniques like thermography or smoke pencils can pinpoint the exact locations of air infiltration. Addressing these leaks through sealing and insulation improvements can lead to substantial energy savings, reduce the risk of moisture-related problems like mold, and improve the overall comfort and health of the building's occupants.