Temperature versus energy based approaches in the thermal assessment of buildings

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.