lämpövuotaa

Lämpövuotaa is a Finnish term that translates to "heat leak" or "thermal leakage" in English. It refers to the unintended or uncontrolled loss of heat from a building or a system to its surroundings. This phenomenon is a significant concern in building physics and energy efficiency, as it directly contributes to increased energy consumption for heating and cooling.

Heat leaks can occur through various pathways. Conduction is a primary mechanism, where heat travels through building materials such as walls, roofs, floors, and windows. Poorly insulated areas are particularly susceptible to significant heat loss via conduction. Convection is another important pathway, involving the movement of heated air. This can happen through air infiltration, where warm indoor air escapes through cracks and gaps in the building envelope, and cold outdoor air enters. Natural convection currents within cavities can also transfer heat. Radiation contributes as well, with heat radiating from warmer surfaces to colder ones, both within the building and to the external environment.

Identifying and mitigating lämpövuotaa is crucial for improving the thermal performance of buildings. Common areas where heat leaks are found include around windows and doors, at the junction of walls and roofs, and through uninsulated pipes or ducts. Solutions involve enhancing insulation, sealing air gaps, and using energy-efficient windows and doors. Understanding the principles of heat transfer is essential for effective lämpövuotaa management.