Assessing Indoor Hygrothermal Conditions in Unfavourable Scenarios: Open Windows in a Residential Building in the Coastal Mediterranean Summer Climate

Abstract

Scientific research has identified different adaptive behaviours that influence thermal comfort in buildings. Depending on factors such as ventilation mode, building type, or occupant age, those user actions are diverse and include air conditioning and fan usage, window and/or door opening, curtain and/or blind usage, cloth adjustment, and beverage drinking, among many others. Especially in the Mediterranean summer climate, façade openings are likely to be a direct inflow of hot air. Focusing on the case study of a residential building with a robust envelope, this chapter aims to assess the impact of keeping windows open on indoor temperature and relative humidity.