Experimental Study on Sleep Quality in Naturally Ventilated Rooms under Moderate Climate Conditions

Abstract

Optimizing the thermal environment of a bedroom is desirable for good sleep. In moderate climatic conditions, natural ventilation is a viable method for enhancing the quality of sleep by improving indoor air conditions. This study examined the effects of air temperature and wind speed on sleep quality in naturally ventilated rooms with windows open and closed, during autumn. Thirteen young males in healthy conditions participated in this study. Two adjacent test rooms (for opened and closed conditions) were selected on a university campus, with standardized indoor conditions. Air temperature and wind speed were measured near the height of the participants’ heads. Sleep efficiency and wake after sleep onset (WASO) were calculated using physiological wearable sensors based on heart rate and body movement. The participants completed questionnaires on thermal sensation and comfort before and after sleep. The results showed that the lowest percentage of WASO was observed when the nocturnal mean temperature was 23–24°C with a quadratic regression curve regardless of the window opening conditions. Conversely, subjective sleep satisfaction and WASO did not show any significant differences between the conditions. The results revealed no significant impact of varying thermal and airflow conditions during autumn on thermal/airflow comfort, although significant differences were observed in the thermal/airflow sensation before and after sleep. Thus, these results suggest that natural ventilation through the opening of windows might not affect thermal/airflow comfort, while a nocturnal indoor air temperature of 23–24°C is recommended for good sleep and thermal comfort, regardless of window opening conditions under moderate climate conditions.