Investigating the efficiency of indigenous passive cooling systems in traditional Iranian houses: Quantitative and qualitative analysis in hot and dry climates

Rouhi, Safoura; Mahdinejad, Jamale Din

Investigating the efficiency of indigenous passive cooling systems in traditional Iranian houses: Quantitative and qualitative analysis in hot and dry climates

Document Type : Article extracted from dissertations

Authors

Safoura Rouhi ¹

Jamale din Mahdinejad ²

¹ .Researcher, Faculty of Architecture and Urban planning, Shahid Rajaee Teacher Training University, Tehran, Iran

² Professor of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture and Urban planning, Shahid Rajaee Teacher Training University,Tehran,iran

Abstract

Background and Objective: Vernacular passive cooling systems play a crucial role in maintaining thermal comfort in traditional Iranian houses, especially in hot and dry climates. This study aims to assess the efficiency of these systems through quantitative and qualitative analysis to identify their strengths and weaknesses and propose improvements.
Methodology: This research was conducted as a case study in Iran's hot and dry regions. Data collected included field observations, interviews with residents, and previous studies. Quantitative and qualitative analytical methods were used to evaluate the thermal efficiency and other related aspects of passive cooling systems.
Findings and Conclusion: This study shows that vernacular passive cooling systems in traditional houses in hot and dry climates can provide thermal comfort but require improvements to compete with modern systems. The widespread use of evaporative coolers indicates that passive systems need to be more efficient. It is recommended that further research be conducted to optimize and enhance the performance of these systems to play a more effective role in providing thermal comfort and reducing energy consumption.1. Thermal Comfort Temperature: The thermal comfort survey identified a neutral temperature of 28°C and a comfort range between 25°C and 30°C for residents of traditional courtyard houses in Iran's hot and dry climate.2. Capability of Passive Systems: Traditional houses cannot maintain thermal comfort throughout a hot summer day unless in their basements. However, these buildings can significantly reduce spatial cooling needs through the use of vernacular passive cooling measures, minimizing reliance on conventional cooling systems.3. Climate Responsiveness: Traditional buildings are highly responsive to the climate, capable of reducing peak electricity demand, compensating for mechanical coolers with free cooling, and maintaining adequate comfort conditions.

Spatial Diversity: The variety of spaces and temperature differences in traditional houses offer residents choices and adaptability, enabling them to select and acclimate to different environments based on their preferences.

Keywords

Traditional architecture

passive cooling systems

thermal comfort

hot and dry climate

thermal comfort temperature

traditional houses

cooling systems

Subjects

Sustainable Urban Development

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