English

Gives some conclusions from a detailed computer analysis of the energy consumption of 600 branch bank buildings of The Bank of Novia Scotia, spread across Canada. Divides energy management into 3 categories:

States that the calculation of building energy flow is very complex, and so validation is a vital element in the development of any model. Describes an IEA R and D project to compare 23 computer programs (from 8 different countries) both in terms of consistency between programs, and in thei relative accuracy in modelling the behaviour of a real building (the Avonbank office block in Bristol). Summarizes the major conclusions developing out of the project and discusses the most important aspects which need to be considered in the development of a reliable computer program.

Reports on a project carried out in the Caswell Hill and Riversdale areas of Saskatoon to investigate the effectiveness of sealing with caulking and weatherstripping to reduce air leakage. This involved sealing 10 homes, and also insulating the attics and basements of five of these houses after thesealing work. A control group of 10 homes which had been insulated without particular attention being given to sealing procedures were also monitored. The homes were pressure tested by the National Research Council before and after sealing to measure the reduction in air leakage.

Reports on a study carried out by HUDAC and DBR on four identical detached houses built in Ontario in 1977. House 1 was built according to the insulation requirements of the 1975 Ontario Building Code, the others were constructed with increased levels of insulation and air tightness. Some of the aims are:

Shows that efficient moisture removal in a ventilated roof via ventilation openings is a function of roof length. Beyond a certain critical length all moisture diffusing in from below will be deposited in the roof. The critical roof length will be greater the more vapour tight the section beneath the roof space is. If a vapour barrier is necessary, as in an unventilated roof, it maybe that an unventilated roof is preferable in the first place.

Reviews literature and presents annotated bibliographies for indoor air quality, indoor air pollution health effects and residential air infiltration. Analyzes air infiltration data, and describes factors related to the house itself, the behaviour of residents and the microenvironment surrounding thehouse. Discusses future trends of infiltration rates.

Air leakage tests (using the fan pressurisation method) were conducted on four schools, before and after they were retrofitted, in order to determine the effectiveness of various measures for reducing leakage. Caulking wall joints will generally reduce air leakage and is worthwhile if the joints are accessible. Replacing leaky windows will also improve airtightness but may not be cost effective. Routine inspection of outside dampers of the air handling system can help ensure continued airtightness of schools.

Describes the computerized instrumented residential audit (CIRA), a collection of building energy analysis programs designed for a wide variety of microcomputers. Covers methods and type of input, and types of output produced.

Reports the results of an experimental assessment of the effect of a chimney on the air leakage characteristic of an unoccupied two-storey detached house heated by either gas or electric furnace. Measurements were taken of air tightness values and air infiltration rates with the chimney capped anduncapped.

Describes an analytical model used to study the effects of air supply rates on the dynamics of an occupied space as related to energy consumption and occupant's comfort. Reviews the concept of Air Diffusion Performance Criteria (ADPI) and uses it to derive air movement control strategies to reduce energy consumption in buildings. Discusses the relationship between the air movement control strategies and passive thermal control strategies for energy efficient buildings.