Performance evaluation of heating plants in contemporary research houses 1987-1988. Topical report, October 1987-March 1988

Under the sponsorship of the Gas Research Institute, two high-efficiency (80-percent) gas furnaces, sized 37 percent and 103 percent over design heat loss, were tested at two unoccupied contemporary research houses in the Washington, D.C. area. The research houses were moderately furnished to approximate conditions of occupancy for a family of three. Presence of occupants and use of appliances were simulated. Performance of the furnaces was characterized on the basis of indoor comfort, dynamic response to changing indoor/outdoor conditions, energy consumption, and efficiency. Such characterization will provide a basis for comparison with new or prototypical systems to be tested during future heating seasons.