Quantitative infrared thermography to supplement home energy audits.

摘要

This thesis is an investigation of a Quantitative Infrared (IR) Thermographic Capability to supplement residential energy audits. The enhanced energy auditing procedure would provide quantitative information about how various installed envelope components function in terms of leakage, energy utilization and corresponding environmental impacts (GHG emissions). A methodology for this is proposed, and a 'proof of concept' is provided. Leakage quantification is developed using IR thermography in a calibration process; leakage through the envelope component (window) is measured and thermal responses are monitored via IR images. An innovative procedure for measuring in-situ component leakage is developed to more easily facilitate leakage measurement. An empirical model mapping temperature response to leakage is generated, and the effective leakage area (ELA) of the component is determined. IR images thus provide ELA information, thereby proving the concept of Residential Quantitative Thermographic (RQT) capabilities. It is recommended that further research be invested in the remaining building envelope components so as to provide a comprehensive home-energy auditing procedure.