Numerical assessment of indoor thermal comfort in residential buildings: A comparison of radiant and all-air cooling systems

Thermal comfort in residential buildings has become increasingly important due to rising summer temperatures and solar radiation exposure. This study addresses the limitations of existing simulation models in capturing dynamic solar effects by developing a validated numerical model using COMSOL Multiphysics ® . The research focuses on analyzing the impact of solar radiation patterns and evaluating the performance of different cooling systems in maintaining thermal comfort. Numerical simulations reveal significant temperature variations, with sun-exposed areas reaching up to 25°C higher than shaded zones during peak summer conditions. While ceiling cooling systems prove sufficient for uniformly shaded spaces, the study demonstrates that Air Handling Units most effectively address localized overheating caused by solar radiation. The energy savings that can be realized between uses of Air Handling Units are relatively marginal. Consequently, achieving a reasonable balance between thermal comfort and energy consumption is crucial for occupants. The developed model provides a reliable alternative to experimental measurements for assessing temperature distribution and heat accumulation in building configurations, offering valuable insights for optimizing cooling system performance in typical residential settings.