مسکن و محیط روستا (Oct 2023)
Examining the Impact of Natural Ventilation on Indoor Climate in Severe Heat Conditions of Mountainous Regions in Golestan Province
Abstract
This study examines the impact of natural ventilation on indoor climate in severe heat conditions of mountainous regions in Golestan Province, with consideration of the thermal-humidity performance of building walls. Such research has not been conducted in the mountainous regions of Golestan Province, particularly in newly constructed buildings, and this study demonstrates the inefficiency of new buildings in creating suitable thermal conditions for residents. The research method combines library studies, simulations, and empirical studies. The study began by evaluating the thermal comfort conditions of residents using a questionnaire to determine their comfort zone and sources of discomfort during hot months. Residents complained about high humidity levels in the space, which varied between 8.58% and 65%, as one of the reasons for their concern and discomfort. Then, by recording environmental data at the research site and collecting various data, the thermal-humidity performance of building walls was simulated using WUFI PLUS software to evaluate their impact on indoor weather conditions when natural ventilation is used. The hypothesis of this study is that natural ventilation is unable to improve the indoor climate during critical conditions. Based on the findings, the existing building walls have little effect on reducing the relative humidity of the space and even with the use of natural ventilation, the relative humidity fluctuates in proportion to the conditions outside and comfort conditions are not provided. It should be noted that simulation results show that the use of natural ventilation in critical heat conditions increases the indoor air temperature. Ultimately, the findings of this study demonstrate that current construction methods and failure to utilize indigenous architectural features lead to a lack of thermal comfort in indoor spaces during severe heat conditions, even when natural ventilation is used.
