Air leakage characteristics of low-income housing and the effectiveness of weatherization techniques for reducing air infiltration

Reports measurements of air change rates made on approximately 250 dwellings, occupied by low income households in 14 cities, in all major climatic zones of the United States. Two types of measurements were used : a tracer-gas decay technique using air sample bags and a fan depressurization test that measures induced air exchange rates. Shows that for this group of dwellings natural air infiltration rates have an approximate lognormal distribution. Finds little correlation between natural air infiltration rates and induced air exchange rates unless buildings are divided into classes of similar buildings.Mentions important use of fan depressurization as a diagnostic tool to find air leakage paths. Presents preliminary estimates of reduction in induced air change rates from weatherization techniques.