Conclusion:
In conclusion, we have discovered that there are temperature differences between the north and south rooms. These differences are apparent, but not drastic. Solar gains from the south facing windows are a factor in the temperature differences. Internal loads from the occupants keeps the building quite warm as does the universal heating system. Heating was controlled on each floor rather than individual rooms, so the temperature was generally hotter that it needed to be. The current design is not energy efficient.
Our graphs illustrate the shift in temperature from the north to the south and in the hallway. These shifts make the building uncomfortable at times. The two test series were an attempt at gathering thermal information at different times of the year. Unfortunately the weather did not cooperate, and the outside conditions were similar for both tests. An additional test series during the summer, when the weather is much warmer, would prove to be useful in our evaluation of the second floor. A test in the summer should show how well the uninsulated masonry walls with unshaded single pane glass kept out the heat.
With the completion of this website and the test series we have come to the realization that design and materials along with user modifications have a significant effect on the thermal conditions within a space.
Improvements:
There are many things that can be done to improve the living atmosphere in the Eco-Dorm. Some of these ideas include installing shading devices, decreasing window size, having thicker walls, putting in better quality glazing, adding heat absorbing glass, changing the heating elements, and optimizing the furniture layouts. All these steps can be taken to receive the best results for daylight, temperatures, and acoustics in the rooms. The heating can be changed and tenants should be allowed to adjust their own heating. Another technique to improve the conditions in the rooms is adding a vent to the door to allow for cross ventilation throughout the dorm. A last suggestion we will make for improvements that will improve living conditions is to add insulation to the walls, ceilings, and floors.
