Condensation Risk Under Different Window-Opening Behaviours in a Residential Building in Changsha During Plum Rains Season
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Condensation assessment of a residential building in Changsha, China-located in the hot summer and cold winter climate zone-was conducted during the Plum Rain Season (PRS) using Energy Plus simulations and field measurements. Window-opening behaviour significantly influences indoor air quality and thermal comfort. This study specifically examines how window-opening patterns, including opening duration and opening degree, affect interior surface condensation risk in a rural residential building during PRS. Results indicate that window operational status (open/closed) exerts a dominant influence on condensation risk, while varying window opening degrees during identical opening duration showed negligible differential impacts. Critical temporal patterns emerged: morning window openings during PRS should be avoided, whereas afternoon (15:00–18:00) and nighttime (18:00–06:00) ventilation proves advantageous. Optimisation analysis revealed that implementing combined afternoon and nighttime ventilation windows (15:00–18:00 + 18:00–06:00) achieved the lowest condensation risk of 0.112 among evaluated scenarios. Furthermore, monthly-adjusted window operation strategies yielded eight recommended ventilation modes, maintaining condensation risks below 0.11 and providing occupant-tailored solutions for Changsha’s PRS conditions. These findings establish evidence-based guidelines for moisture control through optimised window operation in climate-responsive building management.
Source: Buildings
Authors: Yecong He, Miaomiao Liu, Zhigang Zhao, Sihui Li, Xiaofeng Zhang, Jifei Zhou
Institutions: Changsha University of Science and Technology, Gree (China)
Language: English
Subfield: Building and Construction
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,137
Award: G5425449115
OpenAlex ID: W4410038077