This publication is part of the Cold Climate Collection from the Cold Climate Housing Information Center at the University of Minnesota. This publication is part of the Cold Climate Collection from the Cold Climate Housing Information Center at the University of Minnesota. Barbara J. Wiersma, assistant professor and extension specialist, Department of Agricultural Engineering, University of Minnesota. Most heat loss in a residence occurs through either transmission or infiltraiton. Transmission is the transfer of heat energy by conduction and convection through the exterior structure.
Infiltration is the exchange of inside air with outside air.
All hmes have this exchange of air. Any cold air entering the home must be heated and constitutes a significant load on the heating system. Heat loss from a residence can be anlyzed by evaluating the buildign envelope. Factors for determing the amount of insulation needed include the type of construction, inside and outside temperatures, the amount of exposed area, and the cost of installation. State codes may dictate some requirements or limitations.