Ruxandra Crutescu

An Adaptive Thermal Comfort Model for the Romanian Climate

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.

Preliminary Results Concerning the Thermal Comfort in a Romanian Passive House

Energy saving is a recognized priority worldwide. The goal for the construction industry is to conceive and operate buildings with low energy consumption. However, sometimes energy saving can cause discomfort to the occupants. A field survey was done in a naturally ventilated passive office building during summer. Comfort parameters were measured and occupants were distributed comfort questionnaires consisting of questions related to their thermal sensation and preference.