Sensible heat
When heat energy is added to a substance, its temperature generally rises, and when heat energy is removed, its temperature generally falls. This is referred to as ‘sensible heat’. The term ‘specific heat’ refers to the heat energy per unit mass required to raise the temperature of a substance by one degree Celsius.
This is as opposed to the situation when a substance changes state, such as from a solid to a liquid, a liquid to a gas or vice versa, which, whilst it requires the addition or removal of heat energy, does not result in a change in the temperature of the substance. This is referred to as ‘latent heat’.
The sensible cooling load of a space refers to the amount of heat that has to be removed from that space to maintain its dry bulb temperature when the worst case outdoor design temperature is being experienced.
The latent cooling load of a space refers to the amount of heat that has to be removed from that space to maintain its wet bulb temperature when the worst case outdoor design temperature is being experienced.
Thermal Comfort (TG 22/2023) published by BSRIA in 2023 states: ‘Sensible heat is heat we can sense, or heat which causes an increase in temperature. Latent heat is heat which causes an increase in moisture content only. Human beings produce a combination of sensible and latent heat.’
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed by ECA
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Heat pumps, vehicle chargers and heating appliances must be sold with smart functionality.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
New-style degrees set for reformed ARB accreditation
Following the ARB Tomorrow's Architects competency outcomes for Architects.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.
Preserving, waterproofing and decorating buildings.
Many resources for visitors aswell as new features for members.
Using technology to empower communities
The Community data platform; capturing the DNA of a place and fostering participation, for better design.
Heat pump and wind turbine sound calculations for PDRs
MCS publish updated sound calculation standards for permitted development installations.
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.