Overcooling of office buildings in Malaysia

Nurul Zahirah Mokhtar Azizi, Nazirah Zainul Abidin, Nurul Sakina Mokhtar Azizi and Nasyairi Mat Nasir
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Nurul Zahirah Mokhtar Azizi: Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
Nazirah Zainul Abidin: Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
Nurul Sakina Mokhtar Azizi: Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
Nasyairi Mat Nasir: Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, Malaysia

Journal of Advances in Humanities and Social Sciences, 2017, vol. 3, issue 3, 182-192

Abstract: As the issue of global warming becomes more substantial, office buildings in Malaysia widely use air conditioning as an active design solution to cool the building. However, thermal comfort is often a problem in many offices using centralized air conditioner where occupants complain that the indoor climate is too cold. The overcooling effect is a result of over-specification of air conditioning systems, which lead to inefficient energy consumption and thermal discomfort. This paper identifies and explains the underlying causes of over-specification. The investigation focuses on understanding the factors affecting active design decisions. A total of 39 construction consultants participated in face-to-face interviews that were conducted in individual and group meetings. Research findings revealed that the problem can be attributed to the practice of quick solutions, resistance from design consultants, a ‘bigger is better’ mentality, unsupportive fee structures, and poor testing and commissioning practices. The highest contributing factor is the resistance of design consultants to change and consider new solutions that break away from customary practices.

Keywords: Office building; Energy efficiency; Overcooling; Thermal comfort (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2017
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:apb:jahsss:2017:p:182-192

DOI: 10.20474/jahss-3.3.5

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