Mixed mode climate control: some hands-on experience

摘要

The probability of global warming in response to accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere has brought about renewed interest in conservation of energy in buildings. One attractive possibility is the use of a mixed mode strategy for indoor climate control in office buildings. This paper reports preliminary results of observation of occupant actions to control their thermal environment in a situation that permits ventilation and climate control through operable windows and doors with provision for supplementary mechanical cooling and heating when the need is perceived. Monitoring will continue until mid-1996 but some conclusions can be drawn from observation to date. It is reported that occupant satisfaction with the thermal environment is high and energy savings are available due to intermittent use of the equipment.