Understanding Air Tests for Energy-Efficient Construction
Air Test: A procedure that measures a building’s airtightness, evaluating the rate of air infiltration or escape through its envelope, including walls, windows, doors, roofs, and floors.
Importance:
- Energy Efficiency: Identifying air leakage areas allows targeted improvements, reducing heat loss, and lowering energy consumption.
- Comfort and Indoor Air Quality: Addressing air leaks enhances occupant comfort and prevents issues related to drafts and poor indoor air quality.
- Regulatory Compliance: Many building regulations and energy standards require air tests to ensure compliance with efficiency and sustainability goals.
Process:
- Preparation: Securely close windows, doors, and openings. Install a large fan in a doorway to depressurise the building.
- Measurement: The fan creates a pressure difference, enabling the measurement of airflow required to maintain the differential. Results are expressed as air permeability index (API) or air changes per hour (ACH).
- Analysis and Recommendations: Identify significant air leakage areas for targeted improvements, including sealing gaps, enhancing insulation, and optimising ventilation systems.
Summary:
Air tests play a crucial role in assessing a building’s airtightness and identifying air leakage areas. By conducting these tests, construction professionals enhance energy efficiency, improve comfort, and ensure compliance with regulations. Air tests contribute to the construction industry’s pursuit of energy-efficient and high-performance buildings.