Asian Journal of Atmospheric Environment

Korean Society for Atmospheric Environment (한국대기환경학회)
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Characterization of Indoor Temperature and Humidity in Low-income Residences over a Year in Seoul, Korea

  • Lee, Daeyeop (Department of Environmental Health Science and Institute of Health and Environment, Graduate School of Public Health, Seoul National University) ;
  • Lee, Kiyoung (Department of Environmental Health Science and Institute of Health and Environment, Graduate School of Public Health, Seoul National University) ;
  • Bae, Hyunjoo (Korea Environment Institute)
  • Received : 2017.03.21
  • Accepted : 2017.07.02
  • Published : 2017.09.30
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Abstract

People spend the majority of their time in indoor environments. Maintaining adequate indoor temperature and humidity is necessary to support health and improve quality of life. However, people with low incomes can be vulnerable because they may not be able to use effective cooling and heating systems in their homes. In this study, the indoor temperature and humidity in low-income residences over a year in Seoul, Korea was characterized. Indoor temperature and humidity were measured in three types of homes (12 rooftop residences, 16 basement residences, and 18 public rental apartments) occupied by low-income residents. Both differed significantly among the three types of residence, particularly during the summer and winter seasons. A regression model between indoor and outdoor temperature detected a heating threshold at $3.9^{\circ}C$ for rooftop residences, $9.9^{\circ}C$ for basement residences, and $17.1^{\circ}C$ for public rental apartments. During tropical nights and cold-wave advisory days, rooftop residences showed the most extreme indoor temperatures. This study demonstrates that people living in rooftop residences could be at risk from extreme hot and cold conditions.

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