Exergy evaluation of mechanical ventilation systems

Energy performance of mechanical ventilation systems in modern low energy and passive buildings is a crucial factor influencing overall energy performance of building. Energy balance is commonly used tool in evaluation of mechanical ventilation systems. In the case of low energy and passive buildings that tool might be insufficient and should be replaced by exergy analysis taking into account the first and the second Law of Thermodynamics. The paper presents principles of exergy evaluation of mechanical ventilation systems and case study calculations for an office building.