Infiltration
Infiltration is the unintentional entry of outdoor air into a building through cracks, gaps, and openings. It increases heating and cooling loads, creates drafts, and affects comfort. Reducing infiltration improves HVAC efficiency, but ventilation still needs to be balanced for healthy indoor air.
💡 Key Takeaways
- ✓Infiltration is the unintentional entry of outdoor air into a building through cracks, gaps, and openings. It increases heating and cooling loads, creates drafts, and affects comfort. Reducing infiltration improves HVAC efficiency, but ventilation still needs to be balanced for healthy indoor air.
- ✓Infiltration raises heating and cooling demand.
- ✓Air sealing improves comfort and reduces drafts.
- ✓Adequate ventilation is still required for IAQ.
Infiltration
/ˌɪn.fɪlˈtreɪ.ʃən/
Definition
Infiltration is the unintentional entry of outdoor air into a building through cracks, gaps, and openings. It increases heating and cooling loads, creates drafts, and affects comfort. Reducing infiltration improves HVAC efficiency, but ventilation still needs to be balanced for healthy indoor air.
Why does infiltration matter in HVAC?
It increases load and energy use by letting uncontrolled outdoor air in.
Source: The Cooling Company
Quick Facts
How Infiltration Works
Air leaks increase energy loss and reduce comfort.
Real-World Application
An energy audit with a blower door test identifies air leaks around windows and doors, leading to sealing upgrades.
Pro Tip
Seal common leak points like attic hatches, door frames, and recessed lights to cut infiltration.
“Seal common leak points like attic hatches, door frames, and recessed lights to cut infiltration.”
Important Things to Keep in Mind
- Infiltration raises heating and cooling demand.
- Air sealing improves comfort and reduces drafts.
- Adequate ventilation is still required for IAQ.
Did You Know?
Air leakage can account for 20-30% of a home's heating and cooling loss.
FAQ
Is infiltration the same as ventilation?
No. Infiltration is uncontrolled air leakage, while ventilation is intentional.
Can too much air sealing be a problem?
Yes. Homes still need planned ventilation for healthy IAQ.
How do I measure infiltration?
A blower door test measures leakage and identifies problem areas.
Related Services
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