Theses and Dissertations
Date of Award
5-1-2026
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Civil Engineering
First Advisor
Gasser Ali
Second Advisor
Mohsen Amjadian
Third Advisor
Yoojun Kim
Abstract
This study examines residential cooling energy efficiency during extreme heat in South Texas, particularly in the Rio Grande Valley, a hot-humid region where temperatures regularly exceed 100°F. As extreme heat intensifies, cooling demand and electricity costs are increasing pressure on households. While previous research has focused mainly on simulation-based technologies and building performance, less attention has been given to how extreme heat is experienced at the household level.
To address this gap, the study used a multiphase approach that combined a systematic literature review, a residential survey, and the development of a decision support tool (DST). The survey examined resident perceptions of extreme heat, electricity affordability concerns, common cooling systems, and key home characteristics. The results showed higher reported summer electricity bills, strong reliance on central air conditioning, and high perceived usefulness of measures such as insulation, ceiling fans, HVAC maintenance, shading, and high-efficiency HVAC systems. Household and home characteristics also appeared to influence cooling-related energy experiences and summer electricity burden. These findings were incorporated into the DST to generate tailored retrofit guidance and estimate potential cooling-related savings for a representative household.
Recommended Citation
Castan Ruiz, R.(2026). Residential Cooling Energy Efficiency During Extreme Heat in South Texas [Master's thesis, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley]. ScholarWorks @ UTRGV. https://scholarworks.utrgv.edu/etd/1915
Comments
Copyright 2026 Rosa Aimee Castan Ruiz. All Rights Reserved. https://proquest.com/docview/3371110630