The module is an introduction to the factors that affect the thermal performance of buildings. Its aim is to facilitate students to create acceptable designs which are sustainable (minimizing the use of mechanical cooling systems) and comfortable. The emphasis is on creating acceptable indoor thermal conditions thus minimizing the use of space heating and cooling. The teaching objectives of the module are:

         

          - To create awareness and understanding of designing buildings that respond to local climatic conditions that reduce the energy load of mechanical air-conditioning systems.

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          - To introduce thermal mechanisms such as solar radiation, heat conduction, heat resistance and heat convection that determine indoor temperatures;  including how building elements respond to thermal mechanisms as well as various design strategies to reduce heat gain of interior spaces through control of variables.