Estimation of Optimum Insulation Thickness for the Buildings in Different Climate Zones of Türkiye

Abstract

The application of insulation on outer walls of buildings is investigated in this study. The provinces of Istanbul, Ankara, Van and Erzurum are selected as 3^rd, 4^th, 5^th and 6^th zones, respectively in Türkiye for the investigation. The optimum insulation thickness (x_opt) values are computed using heating degree-day method. The extruded polystyrene (XPS) and glass wool are separately used as insulation materials in the analysis. According to the obtained results, x_opt of glass wool is higher compared to XPS material while the payback periods for glass wool are found to be shorter for all studied provinces. In addition, the amount of saved energy due to the application of x_opt increases as going from 3^rd zone (Istanbul) to 6^th zone (Erzurum). The saved energy is seen to be over 80% due to the presence of x_opt. The saved energy amount is also determined to be greater using glass wool than XPS for the presence of insulation material with optimum thickness in all studied cities. The glass wool can be suggested as a potential insulation material than XPS for these investigated provinces considering quicker payback period, higher energy savings and suitable value of overall heat transfer coefficient.