How compliant HVAC systems affect indoor environment quality and occupant sick building syndrome in Malaysian academic buildings

Indoor environmental quality (IEQ) has a significant impact on human well-being, with thermal comfort and air quality being two critical factors. This study presents both objective and subjective evaluations of centralized and VRF air-conditioning systems in a university library, examining their effects on thermal comfort, IEQ, and sick building syndrome (SBS). Objective measurements (air and radiant temperatures, humidity, air velocity, and CO2 levels) were collected using data loggers over five days in April 2025 in two areas of a university library in Malaysia, alongside questionnaire surveys (n=100 respondents) on thermal sensation, thermal comfort, and SBS symptoms. Results showed that the VRF system exhibited a warmer, more stable environment (24.02°C, PMV=0.58), higher CO2 levels (950 ppm), and lower humidity (45% RH), leading to increased headaches and eye irritation symptoms. Central AC's stricter IAQ control (CO2 <800 ppm, humidity 55% RH) and better airflow uniformity (PMV=0.34, PPD=7.68), but its overcooling (22.68°C) triggered nasal congestion and skin irritation. However, the subjective assessments indicate that the VRF system achieved better thermal satisfaction compared to central AC. The findings reveal a divergence between standardized comfort metrics and occupant preferences in tropical climates, underscoring the need to integrate user feedback into thermal management.

Text 126774.pdf - Published Version Download (4MB) Official URL or Download Paper: https://frsb.upm.edu.my/upload/dokumen/20251103115...

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