Efficient energy use and good indoor climate in two houses in Sweden – measurement of building performance

Hans Bagge, Lund University
Lotti Lindstrii, WSP Byggprojektering

Keywords

energy efficiency, measurements, heat pump, heat-exchanger, occupant influence, indoor environment, building performance

Abstract

Energy-efficient houses with good indoor environments are possible to build with reasonable extra investment. The study has shown that by using proven building technology and standard products, careful planning and better care in the workmanship; a 30 % reduction in energy use can be realized when compared to an average house. The extra costs are marginal and results in lower life cycle costs, particularly as energy costs are predicted to increase over time.

The examined houses were built in connection with the international housing exhibition in Malmö, Sweden, in 2001, in co-operation with the Swedish Energy Agency. They were designed to achieve a low energy use in combination with a very good indoor environment without increasing the maintenance from the occupants. This was in accordance to the special demands from the Swedish Energy Agency regarding the energy use and indoor environment.

The houses were monitored over a period of two years. Use of district heating, electricity and water were measured, as well as the air temperature indoors, outdoors, and in connection with the heat-exchanger and the heat pump. The indoor environment was evaluated through measurements and interviews. The evaluation has been focused on what makes houses energy efficient, and on the interaction between technology, building and the occupants.

Even tough the houses have good climate shells it is very important with careful adjustments of the installations to obtain low energy use. The behaviour of the occupants influences the energy use to a great extent. It is important for the occupants to get information on how the technical systems and the installations work in order to maintain their performance.