Fluence of different heating charging modes on thermal comfort in cold area

Henan Polytechnic University, Jiaozuo, China

^* Corresponding author: yhy@hpu.edu.cn

Abstract

A residential residence in Jiaozuo city, Henan Province, China was researched over two heating seasons, interior thermal environmental characteristics were monitored, and subjects ’ thermal comfort was investigated to evaluate the differences between different heating charging techniques. Charging by area (CBA) and charge by flow (CBF) is the two heating charging types used in China’s central heating buildings. CBA mode is based on the actual home heating area calculation cost, which requires residents in the heating season before the commencement of a one-time settlement of all costs. In contrast, CBF mode is based on the actual residents daily heating charge dosage in real-time. As opposed to CBA mode, CBF mode gives homes greater choice in determining whether or not to utilize heating and gives them more control over the thermal environment. Through comparison analysis, the researchers discovered statistically significant changes in garment insulation, thermal response, and thermal preference across users with different thermal assessment techniques. Households charged by flow rate have a lower thermal neutral temperature and tolerable temperature than those charged by area. CBF mode may lower people ’s expectations of hot settings while increasing heating comfort, which is more favorable to energy conservation and carbon reduction. The goal of this study is to find out how people’s thermal responses alter when they use different heating charging modes, and to utilize this information to help individuals choose the right heating charging mode for their home.