Assesses energy saving as a function of window air tightness, and transforms value into a corresponding U-value. Uses a single-cell infiltration model, and shows that using the U-value is a convenient way of comparing different energy saving methods. As an example, computes the U-value for the windows in a detached single-family house in an urban area and for Gothenburg weather conditions.

Presents preliminary results of a demonstration program on energy retrofits of low-cost housing in the Lombardy Region, with particular reference to retrofit of windows. Energy analysis shows that window retrofits can be very cost-effective, particularly when applied in conjunction with ordinary maintenance operations.

Traces the development in the UK of performance based standards for windows from the original British Standard Draft for Development 4 issued in 1971, through the UEAtc MOAT No1 isued in 1974, to the recent BS No 6375 Part 1 1983. The original three attributes of wind resistance, air permeability andwatertightness have been gradually developed. Test methodology has been refined, and for weathertightness levels of performance have been identified to reflect various categories of use.

Tests of airtightness and raintightness of windows have been carried out continuously at the Swedish National Testing Institute since 1977. As many factors such as size, material, method of opening and type of weatherstrip employed can all vary among windows tested, it is not easy to draw conclusions about the influence of any one factor. Test results for each window are also strongly influenced by the workmanship and quality of the individual window.

Examines CO2-controlled ventilation for a variety of buildings. A theoretical study shows that the modification of the ventilation rate which can be obtained by the control of a 2 speed fan or by variation chimney cross-section enables the ventilation rate to be independent of external conditions (wind, temperature) and to produce annual energy savings of the order of 1500-2000 KWhr for a 100m2 house.

Describes a model that predicts air infiltration from both wind and temperature influence to within 20%. Compares the predicted value and measured infiltration from a full-scale test structure, revealing an average discrepancy of less than 10 m3/hr (out of an average of approx 150 m3/hr). Presents direct measurements of the wind velocity and pressure coefficients induced by the wind on the full-scale test structure.

Examines the behaviour of buildings with regard to ventilation and air leakage. Calculation of the air leakage of a building involves application of well known and accepted relationships concerning hydrodynamics and aerodynamics. Sets out some elementary cases in order to illustrate thecalculation procedure, and to show the way in which air leakage is dependent on the type of ventilation system in the building.

Presents a review of work carried out by SCBR concerned with airtightness of buildings and ventilation up to January 1982. Describes important features of building systems and mechanics, ventilation systems and immediate surroundings of importance to ventilation process. Assesses the building physics aspects of ventilation systems for various building categories. Discusses a number of ventilation case studies for detached houses and apartment buildings, and presents existing computer programs for single-cell and multi-cell models.

Leakage measurements of houses are common practice in many countries, partly because they are needed for predicting ventilation rates. To use the measurements in this way it is usually necessary to fit an equation to the measured leakage data, so that the data can be extended into the region of interest. At present, the power-law equation is generally chosen for the curve fit. Considers a new approach using a quadratic equation. Shows that there can be large differences between the 2 equations, so the choice of equation is important.

Describes work carried out by British Gas to establish the magnitude of heat losses from gas-fired boilers arising from natural ventilation through the boiler during its shutdown period. Discusses the general principles of ventilation heat losses to the flue and via the draught diverter and presents data for heat loss decay rates for a range of boilers. Calculates ventilation heat losses for typical boilers. Concludes that for a typical open-flued domestic heating boiler, ventilation heat losses are approx 6% or less of total heat input.