Thermal behavior of sunspaces obtained by conversion of existing balconies

ABSTRACTThe evolution of technology, global warming induced by greenhouse gases and the economic crisis have prompted public administrators, professionals in the construction industry and even individuals to implement actions aimed at saving energy, in terms of either reducing the energy demand of buildings or increasing the use of renewable sources.In order to limit the energy needs for winter heating, attention at the legislative level has recently focused on the reduction of heat loss and a more efficient use of solar gains. The latter approach can be pursued not only by means of active solar systems, but also through passive systems such as attached solar sunspaces, which essentially reduce the temperature gradient and the heat loss through the outer walls.In this work, the performance of sunspaces applied to common architectural elements of Italian buildings such as small balconies is theoretically investigated on the basis of standard procedures for assessment of energy performance, in order to highlight their potential when applied to the energy refurbishment of existing buildings.