Optimizing Passive Cooling through Wind Flow Analysis in Hot-Humid Climates: A Simulation-Based Study in Lahore

Abstract

The lack of energy-efficient strategies in residential design always leads to heighted indoor discomfort which requires higher energy consumption. Lahore, being a region with a prolonged hot-humid climate, offers a practical solution to enhance indoor comfort conditions and reduce dependence on mechanical systems by utilizing natural ventilation. This study uses a steady-state tool to simulate airflow in a residential building. It analyzes different ventilation strategies: including single-sided, cross, and stack ventilation, and aims to identify the most effective approach. The evaluation covers both day and night conditions, considering airflow generated by buoyancy alone and in combination with wind. The results indicated that among the three strategies, stack ventilation showed the highest efficiency, consistently meeting and surpassing the airflow needs for fresh air and cooling. Cross ventilation and single sided ventilation showed promising results with wind assistance. This study offers valuable insights that can help shape future building designs aimed at creating more comfortable, energy-efficient, and environmentally responsible indoor spaces.