The effect of warmth acclimation on behaviour, thermophysiology and perception

ABSTRACTPublic and commercial buildings tend to overheat and considerable energy is consumed by air-conditioning and ventilation. However, many occupants remain unsatisfied and consequently exhibit thermoregulatory behaviour (TRB), e.g. opening windows or controlling the air-conditioning. This, in turn, might negatively influence the building energy use. This paper hypothesizes that warmth acclimation influences thermophysiology, perception and TRB in a warm environment. Therefore, the effect of warmth acclimation on TRB, physiology and perception is investigated. Twelve participants underwent a so-called SWITCH protocol before and after warmth acclimation (7 days, 6 h/day, about 33°C, about 22% RH). During SWITCH, the participants chose between a warm (37°C) and a cold (17°C) condition. TRB was determined by the number of switches and the time spent in a specific condition. Mean skin temperature was recorded to assess behavioural thresholds. Thermal comfort and sensation were indicated on visual analogue...