Thermal comfort analysis of dwellings with different construction systems located above 3000 m.a.s.l. in the Rural Andean Zone of Ecuador
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22320/07190700.2025.15.01.08Keywords:
thermal insulation, bioclimatic architecture, energy efficiency, construction systemsAbstract
This research examines the thermal comfort of four non-air-conditioned dwellings located in a rural Andean region of Ecuador, at an altitude of 3,000 meters above sea level (masl), to identify passive design strategies. The study describes the environmental and construction characteristics of two neo-vernacular dwellings built with natural materials (TRA-01 and TRA-02) and two dwellings with modern materials (CON-01 and CON-02). Indoor and outdoor temperature and relative humidity variables were monitored for eight days, along with envelope surface temperatures. The comfort range was evaluated using the operating temperature. The results showed that three dwellings had stable indoor temperatures, although only the straw bale dwelling was partially within the comfort range. The study concludes that the envelope’s thermal insulation, bioclimatic design, and construction quality are needed to maintain adequate temperatures in these cold climate zones.
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