Conventional vs CO2 demand-controlled ventilation systems
Authors:
Fariborz Haghighat and Giovanna Donnini
Affiliation:
Centre for Building Studies, Concordia University, 1455 de Maisonneuve Blvd. W., Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3G 1M8
Abstract:
1. 1. The feasibility of controlling the ventilation system using the occupant-generated carbon dioxide as an indicator of ventilation rate and indoor air quality has been investigated in an eleven storey office building.
2. 2. The study compares the indoor environment created by two different types of ventilation control systems.
3. 3. The two ventilation systems tested consisted of: a conventional system controlled by outdoor temperatures, and a demand-controlled system regulated by indoor carbon dioxide concentration.
4. 4. The results show that the CO2-based demand-controlled ventilation system does not worsen indoor air quality and thermal comfort. It was also noticed that an energy saving of 12% was achieved using the CO2 control system.
5. 5. The occupants perceived that their productivity is proportional to their perception of the indoor environment; indicating that higher productivity rates can be achieved by better controlling the working environment above satisfactory levels.