Journal of Sustainable Urban & Regional Development Studies (JSURDS)

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.

Abstract  
Background and Aim: This research focuses on the examination of Vernacular Passive Cooling Systems (VPCSs) in traditional buildings situated in Iran’s hot and dry climates. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of these systems in providing thermal comfort without the use of conventional cooling systems. To achieve this goal, the comfort temperature range is determined and compared with the internal temperatures of these buildings. This research involves a review and analysis of studies related to thermal comfort, comfort temperature prediction, and field studies concerning thermal comfort in naturally ventilated indoor spaces. Additionally, it examines validated models for predicting comfort temperature, highlighting their inherent strengths and weaknesses.
Methods and Material: This descriptive-analytical research involves collecting data through library studies and interviews with relevant experts and officials in the studied countries. Data analysis methods include comparative analysis of policies and strategies and case studies of successful countries. Ensuring the accuracy of internal temperature measurements and other climatic variables is crucial, along with the integration of interdisciplinary knowledge from architecture, environmental sciences, and engineering for a comprehensive analysis of passive cooling systems.
Results and Discussion: The results show that passive cooling systems in traditional buildings can provide adequate thermal comfort without conventional cooling systems. These systems utilize natural environmental features and sustainable design to reduce energy consumption and improve environmental sustainability. Optimizing passive cooling techniques can significantly contribute to sustainable development and the preservation of natural resources. A comparative study of active and passive cooling systems also offers a better understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of each.