In this paper we approach the subject of ventilation and occupant behavior in multifamily buildings by asking three questions: 1) why and how do occupants interact with ventilation in an apartment building, 2) how does the physical environment (i.e., building characteristics and climate) affect the ventilation in an apartment, and 3) what methods can be used to answer the first two questions. To investigate these and other questions, two apartment buildings in Chicago were monitored during the 1985 - 1986 heating season.
The role of the occupant in buildings energy use has been evident in studies in many countries. Our experience since the early 1970's has indicated that energy use can vary by at least a factor of two solely on how the occupant operates the house or apartment. This often involves window use. For example, window and door openings, to cool an overheated dwelling, can take place at any time of the year. This paper describes work at Princeton which measured occupant ventilation behavior, and which provided feedback in an attempt to modify behavior.
A large number of multifamily buildings have mechanical exhaust air ventilation. The control of such systems' function is often inadequate and adjustment is rarely carried out. One reason for this is the lack of simple methods for determining system performance and air change rates. The report describes a simple method and simple equipment for determining performance in terms of an installation's capacity curve or 'fan installation' curve. Defines terminology and measurement principle. Illustrates equipment and arrangement for measurements.
Approximately 40% of the energy consumption in Sweden is utilized in the heating of buildings. In order to reduce the amount of energy utilized for heating purposes, more stringent thermal insulation requirements for buildings were introduced.
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