Assessment and Proposal to Improve Hygrothermal Comfort and IAQ in Housing in Bogotá: Four Case Studies

Abstract

Low-income housing is that which is developed to guarantee the right to housing for low-income households, the value of which does not exceed 135 minimum wages. This study was conducted as part of eEvaluation and sustainable proposal for improvement of the integral habitability of low-income housing (VIS) project in Bogota, Colombia. It provides a diagnostic and assessment plan for improving indoor air quality (IAQ) and hygrothermal comfort in terms of CO2 concentrations in four residences in Bogotá. The assessment considers the city's climate, occupancy patterns, and schedules of use within the buildings. The study confirmed results using six-month monitoring data, modeling and simulation of dwellings using Sketchup, EnergyPlus and OpenStudio plugin. These methods provided accurate modeling of relative humidity and temperature behavior. Indoor air quality (IAQ) is closely tied to hygrothermal behavior, particularly in cold weather when closed windows lead to increases humidity, and CO2 buildup. To enhance comfort levels, avoiding air infiltration and implementing hygienic ventilation practices are recommended. However, it was noted in several cases that the hygrothermal comfort standards outlined by ASHRAE were not met. As a result, passive improvements based on simulation were suggested, including the use of thermal stucco, double-glazed windows, and insulating floors, all of which improved internal comfort conditions.