The knowledge of IEA-Annex 14 'Condensation and Energy' has been applied to develop a new strategy for humidity control in dwellings. The presented control element assures safe prevention from mould growth at a minimum energy consumption. The advanced humidity control device consists of a surface temperature and an indoor air temperature sensor, from which readings a microcontroller evaluates the appropriate RH setpoint. A humidity sensor then reads the actual RH in the room air and compares it with the momentary setpoint.
The paper summarises the IEA, Executive Committee on Energy Conservation in Buildings and Community Systems, Annex 14 work on Condensation and Energy, a joint research effort of the Federal Republic of Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Belgium, finished end of march 1990. First the complex relations between mould+ surface condensation, the outside climate, the building fabric, inhabitants behaviour and energy conservation are discussed. Then follows a short overview of the Annex achievements with mayor emphasis on the guidelines and practice results.
As a consequence of measures required for reducing the heating energy consumption in residential buildings , there have been more and more complaints in the last few years on the appearance of mould in dwellings . In most cases, it is retrofitted or renovated old buildings which are affected [1]. Mould growth is frequently the result of a severe reduction in the natural air change rate in old buildings following the installation of airtight windows, while user habits remain the same as before.
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