Assessing mixed mode cooling In Lebanon office buildings -

Abstract

The aim of this study is to assess the use of mixed mode ventilation for a typical office building in Lebanon, and consequently reduce Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) energy consumption in the observed recent and under future climatic conditions. Mixed Mode cooling was thought of being a compromise between the insufficient natural ventilation and the expensive year round operated HVAC. A control algorithm is set for windows and HVAC system to ensure mixed mode operation. The results of the simulations were evaluated in terms of potential reduction in energy consumption under the present and the future weather data. Finally a lifecycle cost analysis was performed for the proposed system and its payback period was computed. Under present construction practices and weather data 31percent annual energy savings were achieved using Mixed Mode system. Under future 2050’s weather data 21percent annual energy savings resulted with a payback period of 3.8 year.