Determining the rate at which the air within a defined space is replaced with fresh air involves assessing the volume of the space and the airflow rate. For example, a 1000 cubic foot room with a ventilation system supplying 2000 cubic feet of air per hour has a rate of two air changes hourly.
This metric is critical for maintaining healthy indoor air quality, controlling temperature and humidity, and minimizing the concentration of airborne contaminants. Historically, understanding and managing this has been crucial in diverse settings from hospitals and laboratories to residential buildings and industrial facilities, evolving alongside advancements in ventilation technology and growing awareness of indoor environmental health.