Indoor air quality (IAQ) is often overlooked, yet a poorly maintained environment can lead to significant health issues and reduced concentration and productivity in work or educational settings. This study presents an innovative control system for mechanical ventilation specifically designed for university classrooms, with the dual goal of enhancing IAQ and increasing energy efficiency. Two classrooms with distinct construction characteristics were analyzed: one with exterior walls and windows, and the other completely underground. For each classroom, a model was developed using DesignBuilder software, which was calibrated with experimental data regarding CO₂ concentration, temperature, and relative humidity levels. The proposed ventilation system operates based on CO₂ concentration, relative humidity, and potential for free heating and cooling. Results demonstrate that mechanical ventilation, when integrated with heat recovery and free cooling strategies, significantly reduces energy consumption by up to 25%, while also maintaining optimal CO₂ levels to enhance comfort and air quality.
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