| Title |
Comparison of TVOC Concentrations in Zero Energy Houses and Conventional Houses |
| Keywords |
Zero Energy House ; SIP ; TVOC ; Infiltration |
| Abstract |
Zero Energy Houses (ZEHs) have been constructed in habitat sites in Tennessee. This paper studies on the aspect of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) in four ZEHs. Construction of ZEHs differs from conventional houses by using Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) resulting in high thermal resistances and low infiltration rates. ZEHs also employ supplemental ventilation systems to introduce outdoor fresh air when the heat pump is off. The objectives of the study are to investigate the status of IAQ in ZEHs, and determine whether SIPs contribute to the degradation of indoor air quality in ZEHs, if necessary.
Field measurements on infiltration and Total Volatile Organic Compounds (TVOC) have been conducted and the results are compared to typical levels of U.S. residential buildings. Blower door tests reassure low infiltration in SIP houses compared to the one from conventional wood frame houses. TVOC measurements in ZEHs showed no elevated levels than the conventional houses. However, increased levels of TVOC were observed in comparison with the one from other residential buildings in U.S. Thus, it is concluded that higher TVOC levels may not be attributable to SIPs with mechanical ventilation in ZEHs. |