May 1996
In the last several years, building scientists across the country have been quantifying the contribution made by air distribution systems to building efficiency loss in site -built homes. Estimates vary, but the average duct system appears to reduce overall system efficiency by 20 to 40 percent. This efficiency loss can have a multiplying effect with air-flow sensitive, compressor-based space conditioning systems such as air conditioners and heat pumps. Meanwhile, air distribution systems in new manufactured homes have received very little attention. This study is a step forward in trying to better understand air distribution in manufactured homes and their affect on overall system performance.
This study analyzed the performance of air distribution systems in 24 manufactured
homes in Alabama, Florida, New York, and North Carolina, and compared them with the results of 9 homes built to the more stringent MAP specifications and tested previously in the state of Washington. One of the objectives in this study was to go beyond just describing the magnitude of air distribution system loss and to uncover the source. Understanding the root cause of air distribution system efficiency loss will help to identify the appropriate remedies.
Sponsored by:
Alternative Energy Corporation
Carolina Power & Light Company
New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
124 pages