Experimental Investigation of Demand Controlled Ventilation Systems： A Suitable Alternative for Controlling Ventilation in Dwellings

Indoor CO2 concentration depends on the number of persons, their metabolic rates, other sources of indoor pollution, ventilation rate and ventilation efficiency. These factors are not considered by the Spanish technical building code since ventilation is set only by a fixed air change rate. This paper aims to explore the possibilities of DCVS （demand controlled ventilation systems） to ensure adequate and sustainable ventilation. It is based on a research project carried out by the University of the Basque Country （EHU-UPV） and Euskadi Public Housing and Soil Join-Stock Company （VISESA）： the living rooms of 90 dwellings were provided with DCVS, where CO2 sensors were used to dynamically control the ventilation rate. Tests were carried out using tracer gas techniques, with results showing the air age to be adequate at every point of the occupied zones and free of stagnant areas, therefore proving the system＇s effectiveness and rapid response, and its energy savings.