Comparison of the performance of a whole house low energy ventilation system in contrasting European climatic regions

Abstract

An experimental ‘whole house low energy ventilation system’ has been installed and tested in dwellings in Denmark and Poland. Both sites have adjacent houses of identical plan layout, which have been used as a control for the experimental dwellings. A weather station was installed adjacent to each site, and each of the dwellings, test and control, has been extensively monitored to measure indoor airflow and comfort conditions, and the amount of energy being supplied for heating in winter. The design of the systems was established by computer fluid dynamic (CFD) analysis and by a dynamic simulation using ESP-r. The low U-values that can be achieved by ‘air supply’ windows, suggested by previous tests and simulations, have been confirmed by the monitored results. Similarly the levels of preheat to ventilation air achieved by the windows have reached the percentages expected from the simulation models. Practical application: This study is part of an ongoing investigation into the use of an innovative technology for whole house ventilation. Since this is the direction of the forthcoming revision to the UK Building Regulations it has obvious implications for practice.