Trickle ventilators: Field measurements in refurbished offices

Abstract

Sununary This paper describes field measurements to assess the effectiveness of trickle ventilators in providing adequate and controlled background ventilation in office buildings during the heating season. The tests were at full-scale in two multi-storey office buildings. Both are located within a built-up area and recently refurbished. Carbon dioxide, air ventilation rates, temperatures and relative humidity were monitored for two weeks in one open-plan office in both buildings. It was concluded that resultant internal airspeeds are low, thus minimising the possibility of cold draughts. Metabolic carbon dioxide levels are not excessive and adequate ventilation is provided. It was also found that occupants use trickle ventilators regularly to control their environment once they are familiar with their operation.