The House as a System
An improvement to one part of a home can sometimes cause unanticipated
effects on another part of the house system. This session focuses on becoming able to predict and/or diagnose these effects, primarily in order to prevent
the negative ones. Examples of performance problems due to interactions will be discussed, and guidelines for avoiding them will be provided. No prior
technical knowledge is needed.
By attending this session,
participants will
1. Have a better understanding of the driving forces that impact moisture, heat, and air movement in
buildings
2. Learn some of the ways that interactions can cause performance problems
3. Explore the concept of home performance and the role of diagnostics
in verifying that expected results are achieved
Keywords: pressure, airflow, moisture, heat, thermal boundary, mechanical systems, IAQ, combustion
safety, house depressurization