ASSIGNMENT
In a tropical, humid climate like Minna, a poorly designed ventilation system violates thermodynamic
principles because it allows heat and moisture to build up inside the building. This leads to problems
such as increased internal temperatures, high relative humidity, surface condensation, and mold
growth. These problems occur because the natural heat transfer processes (convection, conduction, and
evaporation) are not properly managed. To address these issues, the following improvements can be
made:
i. Increase in Air Exchange
In thermodynamics, air exchange refers to the movement of indoor air with fresh outdoor air. In a
humid climate, it is important to replace moist, warm indoor air with drier, cooler outdoor air when
possible. Increasing air exchange dilutes indoor humidity levels and removes latent heat. This can be
achieved by installing mechanical ventilation systems such as Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) or by
designing the building with natural ventilation strategies like cross-ventilation through windows and
vents. More frequent air exchanges ensure that moisture and heat do not accumulate inside,
maintaining a stable and comfortable indoor environment.
ii. Use Appropriate Materials
The choice of materials plays a critical role in controlling heat transfer and moisture migration, both of
which are fundamental thermodynamic concerns. Materials with high thermal mass, such as concrete or
brick, can absorb excess heat during the day and release it at night, helping to moderate indoor
temperatures. Vapor barriers and water-resistant insulation can prevent moisture infiltration into walls
and ceilings, reducing the risk of condensation and mold. Reflective roofing materials (cool roofs) can
also reduce solar heat gain. Thus, selecting appropriate building materials helps to maintain a better
energy balance within the building.
iii. Consider Cooling and Dehumidification
In a humid climate, controlling both temperature and humidity is essential for thermal comfort. Cooling
systems remove sensible heat (the temperature we feel), while dehumidifiers remove latent heat (the
moisture content in the air). If only the temperature is reduced without addressing humidity, the
building will still feel uncomfortable and sticky. Using air conditioners with built-in dehumidification
functions or separate dehumidifiers helps to maintain optimal indoor conditions. Thermodynamically,
this process involves the removal of water vapor, which requires energy, so the system must be properly
sized and energy-efficient to avoid excessive energy consumption.
iv. Reduce Moisture Infiltration
Moisture infiltration from outside air or through poorly sealed building envelopes leads to high indoor
humidity. This violates thermodynamic principles by increasing latent heat inside the building, causing
higher energy demand for cooling and dehumidification. To prevent this, buildings should be sealed
properly with weatherstripping, vapor barriers, and well-fitted doors and windows. Proper insulation
and sealing reduce the uncontrolled flow of moist air, stabilize indoor humidity, and improve the overall
energy efficiency of the building.
In Conclusion, By addressing these four factors — increasing air exchange, using appropriate materials,
considering cooling and dehumidification, and reducing moisture infiltration — a building's ventilation
system can be greatly improved. These measures align with thermodynamic principles, ensuring efficient
heat and moisture control, better energy use, and improved occupant comfort in a tropical, humid
climate.
References
ASHRAE Handbook - Fundamentals (2017)
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) provides standards
for ventilation rates, air changes per hour (ACH), indoor humidity control, and cooling load calculations.
Key topics: Recommended ACH for humid climates, air quality management, moisture control design
strategies.
Cengel, Y. A., & Boles, M. A. (2015). Thermodynamics: An Engineering Approach (8th ed.). McGraw-Hill
Education.
Classic textbook explaining heat transfer principles, latent and sensible heat, energy conservation in
building environments.
Key topics: Moisture load, energy balance, air-conditioning cycles.
Straube, J., & Burnett, E. (2005). Building Science for Building Enclosures. Building Science Press.
Focuses on the control of heat, air, and moisture flows in buildings, especially in humid climates.
Key topics: Moisture infiltration, vapor barriers, ventilation design.
Olgyay, V. (2015). Design with Climate: Bioclimatic Approach to Architectural Regionalism (Revised
Edition). Princeton University Press.
Explains passive design strategies, natural ventilation, and building orientation for tropical and humid
environments.
Key topics: Cross-ventilation, airflow optimization, climate-responsive architecture.
Liddament, M. (1996). A Guide to Energy Efficient Ventilation. Air Infiltration and Ventilation Centre
(AIVC).
Discusses mechanical and natural ventilation methods, air exchange rates, energy impacts, and design
recommendations.
Key topics: Optimizing airflow, reducing moisture infiltration.
International Energy Agency (IEA) - ECBCS Annex 5 Report on Air Infiltration and Ventilation (2013)
International standard recommendations on how to achieve healthy, energy-efficient ventilation with
minimum moisture problems.
Key topics: Building envelope moisture management, dehumidification, ventilation efficiency.
Nigerian Building Code (NBC, 2006)
Regulatory guideline that mentions minimum standards for thermal comfort, ventilation, and energy
efficiency in building construction within Nigeria.
