New guide examines multifamily high-performance ventilation

A new guide published by the U.S. Department of Energy focuses on high-performance ventilation on new multifamily construction.

“Measure Guideline: Ventilation Guidance for Residential High-Performance New Construction – Multifamily,” contains decision criteria for weighing cost and performance of various ventilation systems. It includes design and installation instructions for the most cost-effective and performance-effective solutions for multifamily unit ventilation that satisfy the requirements of ASHRAE 62.2-2016.

Dwelling unit ventilation approaches that are compliant with ASHRAE Standard 62.2-2016 within enclosures constructed in accordance with the ICC 2015 International Residential Code (IRC) currently are not typical, the guide says. Exhaust-only and supply-only ventilation strategies can both be problematic in multifamily dwelling units that are constructed to meet the 2015 IRC or ASHRAE Standard 62.2-2016 air tightness requirements. 

Balanced ventilation strategies are strongly recommended for multifamily construction and have been shown to be effective. This document provides guidance on balanced ventilation strategies and on several other issues including kitchen exhaust and supplemental dehumidification.