As temperatures rise, staying comfortable in our homes is more challenging.
Why it matters: Comfort is important for productive days and restful nights.
- The number of design flaws in our homes and mechanical systems affect the level of difficulty for staying comfortable.
⚙️ How it works: 6 factors affect comfort:
Metabolic rate —> Varies among individuals and with activity level.
- If your sleep is being negatively impacted, a conversation with your doctor could help.
Clothing —> Acts as insulation.
- So if it’s gettin’ hot in here … you might have options. 😉
Air temperature —> It’s only one of four environmental factors.
📢 Big takeaway: Your comfort is about more than the setting on your thermostat.
Radiant temperature —> Stuff holds heat.
- The main contributor to discomfort in your home is probably the windows—specifically the glass.
- Interior shading (blinds and drapes) is ok.
- Exterior shading from an awning or a tree is better at blocking heat.
Air speed —> Air moving across our skin speeds cooling.
- Using a fan at night could be the key to better sleep.
Humidity —> A room at 73 degrees and 45% relative humidity is comfortable for most people. A room at 73 degrees and 80% is not.
- Controlling indoor humidity is a much bigger topic, but start to be aware of it in your home.
✅ For your Smart Homeowner list
- Change starts with knowledge. There are lots of great options for knowing the temperature and humidity.
- I like this thermostat — displays temperature and humidity.
- I like this indoor air quality monitor — includes temperature, humidity, CO2 and more.
- I like this app for info on outdoor air quality.
Best,
Travis