Presenter: Matthew Moyano
Mentor: Alison Kwok
Poster: 23
Major: Architecture
This study investigated the thermal conditions of Gerlinger Hall’s south façade Sun Porch. Ellis Lawrence intended for the hall to be passively heated most of the year. The authors believe that the gallery space of Gerlinger has enough direct sunlight through its windows that it can passively reach thermal comfort levels during winter without excessive mechanical heating. However, it is currently unable to do so. Damaged and sealed windows do not allow airflow. Outdated radiators cause heat to be continuously released, much more than needed. Hobos, small indoor temperature recorders, collected the data over the span of three days and calculated the heat changes over time. Raytek Lasers identify the heat released and stored in different materials. Variables that affected the data collected were: use of the building, opening of doors, use of central heating, opening of windows, and drafts created by infiltration through historic, single-paned windows. Results of the research show intense heat released from radiators, around 140 deg. F. Walls and floors reach 100 deg. F. The average heat of the area is near 80 deg. F, going in and out of the ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-conditioning Engineers) comfort zone. In response to the data, recommendations for more efficient heating practices will be made in order to make the space more efficient. Such recommendations are: rehabilitation of historic windows and updating and correcting of heating system.