Influence of infiltration on the energy losses in residential buildings in Amman

Windows are considered as the major source of heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. Air infiltration has a major effect on perceived performance of the window. The present paper describes the influence of infiltration on the energy balance for residential buildings. A comparison between fixed fenestration and other types of fenestration systems has been carried out. Air infiltration can account for 30% or more of a home's heating and cooling costs and contribute to problems with moisture, noise, dust, and entry of pollutants. A survey on the most common types of windows used in residential buildings is made. Calculations have been carried out using self developed simulation software.Results show that the clever choice of glazing can save energy and some types of glazing are more efficient in a specific direction than others. The rate of air infiltration depends on many factors, the most important being the size, location of holes in the thermal envelope and the difference in temperature between inside and outside. A better sealed, ventilated and insulated building envelope will save energy and reduce the negative impacts on the environment caused by fossil fuel. Horizontal sliders generally have the worst air infiltration performance of all window types. Beyond the sliding surfaces of the double hung, these windows have frames designed for sash removal. These features, along with necessary provisions for drainage, make it impossible to seal these windows as tightly as a double hung while casement and fixed offer excellent air infiltration performance.