Influence of Radiator Operation on Indoor Air Dynamics in the Huddersfield Smart House: A Computational Analysis

This paper explores the three-dimensional distribution of key indoor parameters (relative humidity, air velocity, and temperature) under two heating modes in an energy-efficient prototype house using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The prototype house (known as the Huddersfield Smart House) has two floors and instrumented with temperature and humidity sensors to collect data at a high spatial resolution to validate the CFD simulations. Utilising user-defined functions (UDFs), stochastic wind conditions were
introduced as velocity inlet boundary conditions at the windows, mimicking real life conditions. A constant radiator temperature of 60°C was maintained and the key indoor parameters were investigated when the radiator is turned ON and OFF. The simulations reveal intricate interactions among these parameters, giving a detailed picture of indoor environmental dynamics within the smart house including air mixing patterns. External factors, particularly the transient effects of wind, further intensify these indoor dynamics. Corroborated by empirical data from the sensors, the study finds good agreement between CFD simulations and sensor measurements. These findings offer valuable insights into the use of the CFD model for the design of internal domestic spaces, which can be used for indoor environmental and health prediction and monitoring under varying input conditions.