At AirGreen, we know that thermal comfort is a delicate matter that varies from person to person. In fact, many believe that the ideal temperature for a space is 21°C, but is that really the case? The answer is not so simple. This figure, although often recommended as a benchmark, does not take into account many factors that actually influence our comfort. In this article, we’ll explore why 21°C is not the perfect temperature for everyone and how you can adjust your indoor environment to maximize your well-being.
Understanding Thermal Comfort: A Multifactorial Concept
Thermal comfort is the feeling of well-being we experience based on temperature, humidity, air movement, and lighting in a space. It depends on many factors, including each individual’s physiology, the activities being carried out in the room, and even the clothing we wear. Therefore, it is essential to understand that a uniform temperature of 21°C may not necessarily be comfortable for everyone.
Factors That Influence Our Perception of Heat or Cold
1. Individual Physiology
Each of us has a different tolerance to heat or cold, influenced by factors such as metabolism, age, gender, and even lifestyle habits. For example, an elderly person or a pregnant woman may experience heat differently than a young, healthy man.
2. Air Humidity
Humidity is a key factor in thermal comfort. Dry air, often encountered in winter, can make the perceived temperature feel colder, while overly humid air, as in summer, can create a stifling heat. Therefore, the ideal temperature may vary depending on the humidity level in your environment.
3. Physical Activity
When a person is physically active, they tend to warm up naturally. Conversely, when at rest, the body will need a cooler temperature to avoid the feeling of overheating. This factor can explain why the same space may feel comfortable at one moment and uncomfortable at another, depending on the intensity of activities being performed.
4. Clothing
Clothing plays a significant role in the body’s thermal regulation. A person wearing light clothing will likely feel warmer than someone dressed in multiple layers. How a person dresses can thus change the perceived ideal temperature in a given space.
Why 21°C Is Not Always the Ideal Temperature
1. Variability Across Seasons
In winter, 21°C may feel too warm for some, while it’s an ideal temperature during the cold months, especially with central heating. In summer, however, 21°C can feel a bit too chilly in an air-conditioned environment, and a slight adjustment to around 22-23°C could provide a more comfortable feel.
2. Local Adaptation and Individual Preferences
Cultural and geographical differences also play a role. For example, in Quebec, people are often more accustomed to cooler temperatures due to the long winter, while those in warmer regions may prefer slightly warmer temperatures even during the winter months.
3. Challenges with Heating and Cooling Systems
Another aspect to consider is the technology behind heating and cooling systems. Systems such as the Fujitsu KZAH R-32 heat pump, Gree Extrême air conditioners, or Goodman R-32 boilers offer optimal efficiency and more personalized temperature control. These modern systems, especially heat pumps, allow precise temperature regulation for each room or zone of a building, providing a more customized comfort.
Solutions to Improve Your Thermal Comfort
1. Use a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats allow you to personalize the temperature of each room based on individual preferences and daily schedules. This type of system helps adjust the temperature precisely to your needs, offering an ideal solution for those who feel that 21°C is not perfect.
2. Install a Suitable Heat Pump
Heat pumps, like the ones we install at AirGreen, are ideal for adjusting the temperature precisely in any given room. For example, a model like the Fujitsu KZAH R-32, which uses advanced technology to provide both warmth in winter and coolness in summer, allows you to set the temperature exactly to your liking, regardless of external fluctuations.
3. Consider the Humidity
Installing a system to manage humidity in your space, such as a dehumidifier or a heat recovery ventilation system, can greatly enhance thermal comfort. These devices adjust humidity to create a more pleasant indoor atmosphere, making the perceived temperature more comfortable without needing to modify the thermostat settings.
4. Think About Insulation and Air Circulation
Another key aspect of maintaining a comfortable temperature in a space is home insulation and air circulation. High-quality windows, proper insulation, and strategically placed fans or ventilation grilles help maintain a uniform and pleasant temperature.
Conclusion: How to Find the Ideal Temperature for You
Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all ideal temperature. What feels comfortable for one person may not be for another. However, by adjusting your heating or cooling system to your individual needs, taking humidity into account, and using modern technologies like smart thermostats and heat pumps, you can easily find the temperature that suits you best.
At AirGreen, we offer custom solutions to improve the thermal comfort of your home or business in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, and all throughout the North Shore and South Shore. With our expertise in HVAC installation, we provide high-quality equipment like the Fujitsu KZAH R-32 and many others to ensure an optimal indoor environment year-round.