Thermal comfort condition assessment in test buildings with different heating/cooling systems and wall envelopes

The main aim of this study is a comprehensive analysis of long-term monitoring data of thermal comfort and discomfort parameters in small identical test buildings equipped with different heating/cooling systems. Calculations of PPD index expressed the human perception of thermal comfort and such discomfort factors like draught rate and vertical air temperature difference are provided for the room in winter season running three different heating systems – electric heater, air-air heat pump and air-water heat pump, as well as for the summer cooling with split type air conditioning systems. It is shown that the type of heating/cooling system and its working regime has a significant impact on thermal comfort conditions in the room. Recommendations for the optimal operating regimes and choice of the heating system from the thermal comfort point of view are provided.