Potential of Natural Ventilation in Different Algerian Climates

Meriem Mezouari; Naima Fezzioui; Mohamed El-mir; Roulet Claude-Alain

Authors

Meriem Mezouari Laboratoire de mécaniques de structures, LMS, Université de Béchar, Algérie
Naima Fezzioui Laboratoire de mécaniques de structures, LMS, Université de Béchar, Algérie
Mohamed El-mir Laboratoire d'énergie dans les zones arides ENERGARID, Université de Bechar, Algérie
Roulet Claude-Alain École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne EPFL, France

Keywords:

Algerian climate, natural ventilation, thermal comfort, TRNSYS–COMIS

Abstract

This study tested the effectiveness of some natural ventilation basic configurations for the thermal comfort of occupants in different local climates in Algeria. Due to the diverse Algerian climate, the study was performed during the mid-season period that includes three months of May, September, and October and the summer that includes the months of June, July, and August. The ventilation potential of the selected configurations was analysed through numerical simulation by using TRNSYS software coupled with COMIS aeraulic software. The results showed the significant contribution of natural chimney ventilation caused by a stairwell to improve occupant comfort. However; its integration requires a judicious and permanent inspection to control temperature decreases or overheating risks.