The cost of indoor climate systems in dwellings taking into account airflow rate, health and productivity

The life cycle cost (LCC) of the heating and ventilation system was simulated for a typical multi family dwelling and a typical detached house. Different ventilations systems were simulated resulting in different heating system designs. A health related cost dependent on the airflow rate which was based on recent studies was added to the life cycle cost. The health related costs are not analyzed but varied in a parametric study. An optimal airflow rate can be found depending on the assumed size of the health related cost. It is not well known how the airflow rate influences the health and comfort. Furthermore, it is not well known or defined how to valuate that possible influence. Despite this, this study is a demonstration of a method which can be used to optimize airflow rates in buildings if the influence and costs on human health related to the airflow rate is known.