Energy and cost/benefits analysis of performance based approaches in design of ventilation systems

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the potential energy and cost benefits of dimensioning ventilation air flow rates according to an indoor air quality (IAQ) procedure, and by considering the effects of air temperature and humidity on perceived air quality. The study is conducted by selecting several target contaminants, then calculating the minimum ventilation rates required to keep these contaminates below guideline limits. Dynamic energy simulations are performed for three ventilation cases; case A: 3.5 l/s; 20°C/40 %RH (relative humidity), case B: 10 l/s; 23°C/50 %RH and case C 10 l/s; 20°C/40 %RH, in three different climate locations. From an operational energy point of view, case A performed best in all climates. Case C is far more feasible when the impact of perceived IAQ on productivity is included into the cost benefit analysis. There is, therefore, a genuine need to further investigate the perceived IAQ and productivity relationship