The impact of climate in indoor pools on the architectural design

Fresh look at the air flow

Authors:

Bjørn Aas, Snorre Olsen, Ole Ö. Smedegaard

NTNU - Centre for Sports Facilities and Technology at Norwegian University of Science and Technology

More advanced building technologies with improved insulation and air tightness standards allow for a new approach in the design. A better understanding on how disinfected biproducts in the water are formed, about the evaporation of gas from the water into the room, and the possible impact of these substances on health, call for a ventilation concept where the swimmer in the water plays a more important role.

The design of ventilation systems for indoor pools used to be dedicated to maintain the climate conditions expressed as temperature and humidity, and with features to recover energy from exhaust air as part of the dehumidification process. Over the years, the indoor climate in pool facilities has achieved more attention. The question came up if there is a need to rethink the design concept of HVAC systems.