What does the letter "Q" represent in relation to air leakage?

In the context of air leakage and building performance testing, the letter "Q" represents total airflow measurement. This measurement is crucial for understanding how much air is leaking from a building, which can significantly impact energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and overall comfort.

The total airflow (Q) is typically expressed in cubic feet per minute (CFM) or cubic meters per hour (m³/h) and provides a quantifiable value that helps assess the airtightness of a building. It indicates how much air enters or leaves the building envelope due to pressure differences, which is essential for calculating ventilation needs, designing HVAC systems, and identifying areas for potential improvement in sealing and insulation.

Air pressure, temperature difference, and humidity levels are all important factors in the study of building performance and air movement, but they do not directly represent the total airflow measurement associated with leakage, which is specifically designated as "Q." Understanding this distinction is key to effectively evaluating and improving a building's energy performance and indoor environmental quality.