Temperature versus energy based approaches in the thermal assessment of buildings

Abstract In this paper the temperature-based approach (using an adaptive thermal comfort model) was validated and compared with the energy-based approach ( AccuRate ) using four full scale housing test modules located in Newcastle, Australia (Cavity Brick (CB), Insulated Cavity Brick (InsCB), Insulated Brick Veneer (InsBV) and Insulated Reverse Brick Veneer (InsRBV)) subjected to a range of seasonal conditions in a moderate climate. The time required for heating and/or cooling using the adaptive thermal comfort approach and AccuRate predictions were estimated. Significant savings (of about 50 %) in energy consumption in minimizing the time required for heating and cooling were achieved by using the adaptive thermal comfort model.