An adaptive thermal comfort model for the Romanian climate

Abstract

Human thermal comfort (HTC) embraces two major approaches, Fanger or classical theory and an adaptive one. Adaptive HTC equations make up parts of the worldwide recognized thermal comfort standards. The balance between thermal comfort and energy saving is held by the adaptive approach of thermal comfort. The use of adaptive HTC equations in the evaluation of existing buildings and in the design of new buildings has led to an important decrease in energy consumption and a minimization of building maintenance costs. The adaptive HTC equations found in international comfort standards are determined from specific databases. New adaptive HTC equations are being developed worldwide for specific climatic regions. The aim of this chapter is to find a HTC equation for Romania’s climate (Köppen climate type D - temperate continental climate) that is similar to the EN 15251 adaptive HTC equation. To this end, a field survey was conducted between 2013 and 2014 in several naturally ventilated buildings (buildings at two prominent universities in Bucharest - a passive office building and a residential house) in Romania. Comfort parameters were measured, and comfort questionnaires were distributed to occupants.