Conclusion
Residential buildings are major consumers of energy which are responsible for greenhouse gas emissions as well (34). In today’s world, population growth is one of the main reasons behind the increase in demands for fossil fuels in the building sector; this involves certain significant consequences such as air pollution, global warming, and greenhouse gas emissions. Optimal climatic design is one of the best strategies to reduce the demand for energy and costs in buildings; in this strategy, designs are carried out proportionate to weather conditions to facilitate the increase in energy efficiency. The first defensive step against weather is a suitable design that is mainly under the influence of climatic factors. When buildings are designed by paying attention to weather conditions, the need for acquiring thermal comfort through mechanical cooling and heating devices decreases. Consequently, it can be used to create a pleasant interior space in buildings where maximum energy is used. Since the most effective parameters for reducing energy consumption include design parameters, building’s shape and direction, and transparency, paying attention to the optimal pattern for these parameters is of utmost importance regarding the amount of energy consumption under any climates.
The present study was conducted to examine the physical parameters of residential buildings and offer an optimal pattern for these parameters in Ilam City; final results showed that square shaped buildings had the lowest amount of energy consumption and increased length-to-width ratio raises energy consumption.
The results of this study can be applicable in two forms. Regarding the already constructed buildings, the findings of this study on the issue of transparency show that energy consumption can be reduced by offering optimal changes in the openings. As for the buildings that are planned to be constructed, the results of this study can definitely be considered and employed. Moreover, using these softwares in the construction process of a building can be effective in reducing energy consumption. Given the physical parameters of buildings mentioned in this study, the common construction materials in Ilam City and single glazed windows were taken into account.
It should also be noted that the results of this study can be different for various climates and construction styles; therefore, the results are specific to Ilam City. Ultimately, it is recommended to review the parameters in case of applying the recommended pattern on a different climate or geographical situation.