Recent field surveys have been performed that independently characterised ventilation or airtightness. This study uses probability methods to combine the data and assess the needs and potential impact of a ventilation standard (CSA 1989) in terms of air flow, air distribution, house depressurization, and energy consumption. Based on the samples available, about two in five new houses nominally meet the air flow, air distribution, and house depressurisation requirements of CSA (1989). One house in five could exceed depressurization limits for naturally aspirated combustion equipment. About two houses in three would meet the continuous ventilation capacity rate using bathroom and kitchen range hood fans, but noise and durability may require upgrading. About three in four houses would meet air distribution requirements by forced warm air heating or ducted fresh air distribution.

KEYWORDS: ventilation, air tightness, new buildings, housing, Canada, surveys, air flow, air distribution, depressurization, energy consumption, air change rate, warm air heating