õhuvahetid

Õhuvahetid, also known as air exchangers or heat exchangers, are devices designed to facilitate the controlled exchange of air between different spaces. In the context of buildings, they are primarily used in ventilation systems to improve indoor air quality while minimizing energy loss. The fundamental principle behind an õhuvaheti is to transfer heat from outgoing stale air to incoming fresh air, or vice-versa, depending on the season.

During colder months, stale, warm indoor air is expelled from the building. As it passes through the õhuvaheti, it transfers its heat to the incoming cold, fresh outdoor air. This pre-heated fresh air then enters the building, significantly reducing the energy required by the heating system to bring it to the desired indoor temperature. Conversely, in warmer months, the process can be reversed, with the õhuvaheti pre-cooling incoming warm air using the cooler outgoing indoor air.

Modern õhuvahetid often incorporate features like filters to remove dust, pollen, and other airborne contaminants from both incoming and outgoing air streams, further enhancing indoor air quality. They are an integral component of energy-efficient building design, helping to maintain a healthy and comfortable indoor environment without excessive energy consumption. Their operation is typically automated, ensuring continuous ventilation.