Reviews the energy conservation features employed in most low energy houses in the Prairie region including airtightness (by application of a vapour barrier), increased thickness of insulation, air-to-air heat exchangers and south-facing windows. Discusses the performance of low energy houses in Saskatoon, and the cost of energy conservation features.

Discusses the possible effects of wind, stack effect, vents and fans on air leakage, and the influence of air leakage openings and the location on the pattern of air flow through buildings. Considers the possible extent and location of condensation in relation to these patterns, as well as methods of controlling moisture entry and removal of accumulated moisture.

Studies the effects of permeability on the wind loading on a building. Compares experimental results from wind-tunnel tests with theoretical methods for estimating the mean and fluctuating internal pressures for various permeability. Observations show that the internal pressure can be estimated from known external conditions in terms of mean RMS and spectral values to a reasonable level of accuracy for the case where the permeability consists of circular apertures. Effects on the external pressure distribution due to permeability are found to be significant under certain circumstances.

Reports air tightness measures and variations in 14 low-energy houses in Heimdal, plus testing of energy saving measures for exposed detached houses. The air tightness should be considerably improved according to the regulations. Treats principles of air tightness, pressure measurement, thermography tracer gas measurements and heat loss measurements.

States that although the conditions for a comfortable climate are well known - especially temperature and air humidity - increased concern with energy conservation means it is important to discover what effect energy conserving measures have on the health,well-being and efficiency of people. Pressing questions are - how far can room temperature be lowered without affecting comfort and how is room air quality affected by a lower air change rate or a reduced fresh air supply. Summarises recommended room temperatures for various levels of activity.

Describes a series of experiments performed on a residential attic under controlled laboratory experiments to obtain a better understanding of attics and attic insulation. Studies type and level of ceiling insulation, mean temperature and heat flow direction (summer v winter) and ventilation rate Describes the experimental set-up and the weather conditions simulated. Gives details of the mathematical models of thermal performance that are developed from finite difference analyses of the ceiling-insulation system. Compares experimental results with the predictions of these models.

During winter experiments in central Pennsylvania a windbreak, 61 metres long and composed of a single row of white pine trees, significantly reduced air infiltration rates and space heating energy needs in a small mobile home by upto 54% and 18% respectively. Greatest reductions in air infiltration rates occurred with the home at one windbreak height (1H) downwind, even though maximum reductions in wind velocity occurred at 2H or 4H downwind. Space heating energy savings were less sensitive to downwind position, with maximum energy savings measured at both 1H and 2H.

Reviews the mechanism of air infiltration as a background for introducing a procedure that yields more reliable estimates of average infiltration rates through a window unit than do methods currently employed.The procedure is applied to estimating the average winter heat losses through windows in low-rise residential buildings variously located through out the US. Concludes that, regardless of climate, the heat loss attributable to infiltration through the window unit is small compared with that incurred as a result of direct transmission of heat through the window.

Describes pressurization tests conducted by the National Testing Institute on 3 large industrial buildings. Sets out equipment and methods used including atracer gas method to calculate air flow through the fan rather than the usual measuring duct. Gives construction and volume details of buildings measured.

States that methods used by Swiss energy consultants in calculating air change rates are often inaccurate. Most consultants use the "observation method" utilising smoke pencils etc. and mistakes are made in calculating conditions causing air infiltration. Describes a new graphic method for estimating mean air change rates, which needs data on construction, pressurization values and window opening.