Field measurement on thermal comfort in traditional Malay houses

Abstract

The main purpose of this study is to evaluate thermal comfort levels in traditional Malay houses based on a field measurement, with an interest to apply its traditional passive cooling techniques to modern houses in Malaysia. The results reveal that indoor air temperatures are 1-2°C higher than the corresponding outdoor air temperatures throughout the day except for a few morning hours around 9 a.m. Air movement obtained by open windows or ceiling fan is required to lower the SET* and improve thermal comfort. Solar heat control and a cool microclimate might be two fundamental traditional cooling techniques for these lightweight houses.