A ventilation field measurement study was conducted during the 1986/1987 and 1987/1988 heating seasons in 39 energy-efficient multifamily dwelling units. Four buildings, two in eastern Washington and two in western Washington, were involved in the study. The purpose of the study was to determine the total and baseline (natural) air exchange rates in units representing energy-efficient construction in the multifamily sector of the Pacific Northwest. This information will be used to aid in the development of future construction codes and standards. The air exchange rate was measured a multiple perfluorocarbon tracer (PFT) technique. Most measurements were taken over a 2- to 4-week period, with a few measurements taken over a period of one to three consecutive months. The PFT technique allows one to determine the fresh air flow into any unit within a building as well as the air flow between adjacent units. In addition, the volumetric air flow and usage of the mechanical ventilation system installed in the units were measured. Temperature, weather, structure, and occupancy data were also collected. 12 refs., 19 figs., 14 tabs.

A study was conducted in the Pacific Northwest region (Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and western Montana) to measure ventilation characteristics in electrically heated single-family, detached residences during the 1987-1988 and 1988-1989 heating seasons. This study generated information that will be used to develop energy conservation programs for Northwest homes. This data will be used to evaluate the cost effectiveness of various conservation measures, to establish residential building codes, and to help regional power planners in making decisions about the management of the Northwest's electrical resources.

"This report provides data and conclusions about the actual performance of different types of ventilation systems as installed and operated in relatively airtight homes. Overall, this study found that total ventilation is not a determining factor in ventilation effectiveness. A key factor is the ventilation delivered to each occupied space. This is coupled with a number of other influencing factors such as house size, occupant density, airtightness, and the presence of a whole house air circulation system such as central forced air. Other factors that affect ventilation performance include humidity, home occupant education and type of heating system"--Publisher's description (viewed September 17, 2015).