Encore-Canada is a Fortran IV computer program which performs a dynamic simulation of energy use on an hourly basis using weather data. The program includes the calculation of air infiltration and solar effects. This report describes the program structure, data preparation, output and procedures for running the program. Gives examples of program applied to a house giving floorplan of the house, input data and program output.
Gives a brief guide to the computer program ZSTEP, which is a program for simultaneous calculation of the thermal performance of up to ten zones in a building. Outlines the structure and operation of the program and describes the type of input needed and the output produced. Discusses applications of the program and planned developments. An appendix gives data preparation sheets.
Reports a study carried out to assess whether homeowners occupying more highly insulated houses have actually realised fuel savings over those realised by comparable homeowners in less heavily insulated houses. Describes method of the survey which included air leakage tests.
Reviews results of tests carried out during a joint industry/university project. Discusses characteristics of single and two-component foam, airtightness, condensation and safety regulations since polyurethane foam contains isocyanates. Diagram illustrates typical cross-section through window frame under normal conditions and when conditioned at 15 deg. C and 65% R.H.
Discusses the use of a regenerative air-to-air rotary heat exchanger (thermal wheel) for heat recovery in residential ventilation systems. Describes a small rotary heat exchanger designed to handle low air flow rates typical of residential houses. The heat exchanger is constructed of a light-weight honeycomb structure made of aluminium foil sheets. Laboratory tests of the heat exchanger showed a high sensible heat recovery effectiveness of the order of 85% with acceptable levels of pressure drop and cross leakage. Cost saving analysis showed significant savings even at today's energy cost.
Discusses materials and systems for reducing or eliminating air infiltration through identified leakage sources. Methods include caulking, adhesive/glass mat, weatherstripping, vent dampers etc. Gives recommended procedure for treating new and existing construction by pressurizing the building to detect air leaks, then retrofitting to reduce leakage. Cost effectiveness of the methods has not been reliably measured but the evidence suggests that many air infiltration reduction materials are highly cost effective. Gives bibliography of 233 citations.
Compares some existing performance requirements for air permeability and water-tightness of windows. Gives tables showing main European standards. Finds that a large variety of methods of test and grading systems is used and concludes that steps should be taken to unify the systems.
The Alberta Home Heating Research Facility consists of six uninhabited wood frame single storey modules with full basements. Describes the modules which are designed to test domestic heating strategies in a northern climate. Reports a series of preliminary measurements of infiltration rate using SF6 as a tracer gas and measuring the rate of decay of the gas. Future studies are planned using SF6 in constant concentration.
Notes that some of the main contributors to excessive ventilation in industrial buildings are external doors and loading bays. Discusses the choice of industrial doors to minimise energy loss. Discusses flexible doors, strip doors, loading bays, air curtains and door sealing.
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