Comfort considerations in Net ZEBs: Theory and design

This chapter examines thermal, visual, and acoustic comfort, and indoor air quality (IAQ). It identifies and quantifies major sources of comfort. IAQ is a measure of the healthiness and comfort of air in buildings. The three main methods to ensure good IAQ are: removal or reduction of source of contaminants, ventilation, or filtration of contaminants. The elements of indoor environmental quality are critical to the success of Net-zero energy buildings (Net ZEBs). While indoor conditions were traditionally viewed as being passively endured by occupants, it is now widely accepted that occupants actively adapt their environment and themselves to improve comfort. Because these adaptations may have a significant effect on energy use, comfort and energy are tightly linked. As such, maintaining comfort through careful building design and operation should be considered throughout the building life cycle.