PERFORMANCE GUIDELINES: 8. INTERIOR CLIMATE CONTROL
8.9 Heat From One Living Area to the Next Is Not Balanced
Acceptable Performance/Condition
The heat balance of living areas shall be generally uniform throughout the home. A temperature difference of +/- 3 degrees Celsius is considered acceptable between living areas on the same floor. Pantries and closets are not typically directly heated and may be cooler than regular living areas.
The balancing of heat within a home is an owner action and is not covered by warranty.
Several factors affect living space temperatures and comfort:
- Directional orientation: north-facing rooms are generally cooler than south-facing rooms.
- Windows: glass has little insulating value and allows more heat to escape from the room.
- Rooms over garages: have insulated floors that lose heat to the unheated garage below.
- Airflow: free airflow from the supply outlet in a room to a return inlet or undercut door is essential. Generally, a minimum 25 mm (1”) space under interior doors above the finished floor covering should be provided.
- Personal preference: personal comfort differs between individuals. Balancing the air delivery system may not completely compensate for the effects of these factors.
- Drapes and furnishings can also influence the heat balance of a room. At possession, living areas are generally balanced. The balance can be affected by seasonal temperature variations and direct sunlight on south facing windows.
Warranty Coverage
None.
Claim Response
None.
Maintenance Tip
Heat registers and ductwork dampers can be adjusted to reduce large variations in room temperature. Certain variations in room temperature can be expected from directional orientation, the amount of glass within a room, airflow (if doors are closed as opposed to open) and whether or not the room is situated over an unheated area of the home, such as a garage or exterior cantilever.
