What is air leakage in relation to HVAC systems?

Air leakage in relation to HVAC systems refers to the unintentional escape of conditioned air through gaps, cracks, or openings in a building's structure. This can occur around windows, doors, ducts, and walls, leading to a loss of heat in winter and cool air in summer. When air leaks out of a building, it can force an HVAC system to work harder to maintain the desired indoor temperature, ultimately leading to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills. Additionally, air leakage compromises indoor air quality and comfort. Therefore, understanding and addressing air leakage is crucial for the efficiency and effectiveness of HVAC systems.