Author(s)

J. Cárdenas, G. Osma, J. Gutierrez, A. Merchan, G. Ordóñez

Abstract

This work shows the characterization of the conditions of indoor environment and energy behavior of a type of social dwelling of 46 square meters, which will be replicated in several projects in Bucaramanga (Colombia). This city is located 7.1° north latitude and 71.3° west longitude to 960 masl. This characterization is made from simulations of a virtual model made in DesignBuilder. The validation of the model was made from measurements such as of air temperature, humidity, daylighting and energy consumption. The four points of the compass were considered in the energy simulations due to the fact that this type of dwelling was built for several orientations in the first project. The simulations were done for daily, monthly and annual periods. The results indicate that the dwelling has high values of thermal gains by occupation and heat that enters through the glazing. The indoor temperature varies between 23°C and 31°C, although that depends on the orientation of the dwelling. The west orientation is the best option because it reduces the annual time that the indoor temperature is above 26°C. With respect to relative humidity, the variation is between 55% and 81% which are common values for natural ventilated inner spaces in this city. However, these mixed conditions cause thermal discomfort for users for most part of suntime (6 a.m. to 6 p.m.) all year. In contrast with that, the daylight level is satisfactory for most inner space between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. The electrical energy consumption can vary between 1200 kWh and 2400 kWh per year. Finally, an analysis in detail for some inner spaces is presented in the document.

Keywords

energy building simulation, DesignBuilder, tropical weather, dwelling