Building Science - Air
Leakage
"Building scientists
have learned that buildings work as a system of interrelated
elements."
—EPA,
Montana State University, USDA
Building Sciences is the study of how buildings
function under various environmental conditions. Some of the
key elements are moisture movement, relative
humidity, pressurization, air
leakage, temperature and
the building envelope itself.
Air Leakage
Air leakage is the unintentional movement
of air from one area to another. Air leaking from the ductwork
(air being pushed out of the ducting system), will have a negative
impact on your comfort level, heating and cooling system efficiency,
and indoor air quality. To alleviate air leakage from the ducting
system, all connections and transitions on the ducting system
should be properly sealed and insulated.
Air leakage can also occur because of the
home's natural 'stacking effect.' As warmer air in the home rises,
a negative pressure is created in the lower areas of the home.
If mechanical ventilation is not used to create a pressurization
balance, the negative pressure will be equalized by drawing unconditioned
air (air leakage) through cracks, piping access holes, and porous
building materials.
Ultimately, structure, ventilation and filtration
all influence the performance of the entire system. Indoor air
quality can be greatly improved by using the proper design strategy
and good building materials. Mechanical systems should be designed
and installed by trained experts aimed toward protecting the
health, quality of life and productivity of the building occupants.
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