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Health and comfort performance of modern residential ventilation systems.

Number: pap. 224

Author(s) : BOERSTRA A., BALVERS J., BOGERS R., et al.

Summary

The quality of ventilation systems (mechanical supply and exhaust with heat recovery as well as natural supply with mechanical exhaust) was studied in 299 energy-efficient single-family houses that were built in the Netherlands between 2006 and 2008. The quality of ventilation systems was determined by technical and visual inspection of the ventilation system for ventilation capacity, indoor air quality, thermal comfort and noise aspects. Also, the performance of the systems was measured, esp. ventilation capacity and noise levels. Characteristics and measurement outcomes were compared with requirements in the Dutch GIW/ISSO guideline for installations in dwellings. The overall conclusion was that the performance was generally poor for both types of ventilation systems. In over 50% of the dwellings, total ventilation capacity was insufficient (< 0,7 l/s/m2), whilst ventilation capacity in over 75% of dwellings was insufficient in one or more rooms. Noise levels above 30 dB(A) were found in the living room or bedroom in 86% of dwellings with balanced ventilation systems and 54% of dwellings with mechanical ventilation. Analysis of characteristics of the ventilation systems showed many further shortcomings (e.g. with system hygiene and filter replacements). The indoor environmental quality was perceived more positive in homes with natural supply and mechanical exhaust when considering air quality, dryness of air, perceived noise and control options. There was no clear relationship between self-reported health and shortcomings of the ventilation systems. The overall poor performance seemed to originate from design, construction and maintenance flaws as well as problems in the use of the systems.

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Pages: 10 p.

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Details

  • Original title: Health and comfort performance of modern residential ventilation systems.
  • Record ID : 30008976
  • Languages: English
  • Source: Clima 2013. 11th REHVA World Congress and 8th International Conference on Indoor Air Quality, Ventilation and Energy Conservation in Buildings.
  • Publication date: 2013/06/16

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