Observation of Environmental Control Behaviour in Elementary School Classrooms Equipped with Air-Conditioning Systems and Ceiling Fans for Cooling

This study conducted investigations aimed at clarifying the differences in environmental control behaviour, thermal/air environments and pupils' thermal sensations before and after installation of cooling systems. It also developed guidelines for operating the equipment. Measurements of temperatures and CO2 concentration, visual inspection of environmental control behaviour and questionnaires about thermal sensation were performed in classrooms of one elementary school in Tokyo. Results showed that in classrooms without cooling systems, fans were operated and windows and doors were opened fully when room temperatures were 28oC or higher. In classrooms equipped with cooling systems, cases of operating both cooling systems and fans were numerous. Also, the CO2 concentration often exceeded the level of 1500 ppm with the opening ratio of windows/doors as low as 10%. When the required opened areas of windows/doors are maintained, CO2 concentrations levels were kept below 1500 ppm. The guidelines of operating equipments and temperatures were summarized based on thermal sensations.