Using exhaust air heat for residential buildings with warm attics

Abstract

In Russia, residential buildings with warm attics and natural exhaust ventilation are common. Thus, the use of the exhaust air heat has a great potential in terms of energy efficiency. The aim of the study is to analyze existing experiences and exhaust air heat recovery for residential buildings, to develop an optimal circuitry taking into account the characteristics of multi-story buildings with warm attics, as well as to calculate the potential of exhaust air heat on the example of a real facility. The authors analyzed the existing exhaust air heat recovery circuitry for residential buildings, introduced the results of theoretical and practical calculations about heating load for hot water supply by means of exhaust air heat recovery in apartment buildings. The theoretical value for hot water heating load by means of exhaust air heat recovery comprises 45.6%. The measurements of the exhaust air in a residential building proved its sufficiency to provide up to 75% of the average hourly heat load for hot water supply. The suggested heat recovery circuitry for buildings with warm attics can contribute to comprehensive measures for reducing energy consumption and improving ventilation.