The influence of opening windows and doors on the natural ventilation rate of a residential building

An analysis of air exchange rates due to intentional window and door openings in a research test house located in a residential environment is presented. These data inform the development of ventilation rate control strategies as building envelopes are tightened to improve the energy efficiency of residential structures. Common physical processes in the building are evaluated for their ability to alter building air exchange rates through increased natural ventilation. The impact on indoor air quality as related to contaminant concentrations is not considered. Air exchange rates were determined for door opening frequency in addition to several window open areas using multiple zone tracer gas decay measurements. Data analysis shows that window opened area, door opening frequency, and indoor-to-outdoor temperature differences have the greatest effect on air exchange rates out of the measured parameters.