A scientific overview of temperature, humidity and airflow
Thermal comfort is a condition of perceived well-being in which people feel neither too hot nor too cold, and the environment feels pleasant from a climatic standpoint. It is a delicate balance, influenced by multiple environmental, physical, and even subjective factors. Understanding what truly affects our perception of heat is essential for designing efficient and comfortable heating and cooling systems—whether at home or in the workplace.
Air temperature
Air temperature is the most intuitive parameter, but it’s not the only one. Thermal comfort does not depend solely on the temperature displayed by a thermometer, but also on the mean radiant temperature (i.e., the average temperature of surrounding surfaces) and the operative temperature, which is a combination of air and surface temperatures.
Practical example: A room at 21°C with cold (e.g., uninsulated) walls may feel less comfortable than a room at 20°C with warm surfaces.
Relative humidity
Humidity significantly impacts how we perceive heat. The ideal relative humidity is between 40% and 60%:
- If it’s too low (for example, in winter with heating turned on), the air becomes dry and can cause dehydration, eye irritation, and respiratory discomfort.
- If it’s too high (typically in summer), it hinders the evaporation of sweat, making it harder for the body to release excess heat.
Solution: A good HVAC system, paired with precise thermostats or programmable thermostats, helps maintain optimal humidity levels.
Air movement
Air currents affect the perception of temperature—even when the air temperature remains the same:
- In summer, light airflow can enhance the feeling of freshness.
- In winter, a cold draft can cause discomfort even in a well-heated room.
Note: That’s why the use of fan coils or mechanical ventilation systems should be carefully regulated to avoid unpleasant drafts.
Thermal insulation and clothing
Thermal comfort also depends on how we dress and how much heat our bodies can retain. This becomes particularly important in shared environments: what feels ideal for one person may be uncomfortable for another.
Activity level
The human body generates heat, so the level of activity alters our thermal needs:
- In offices or at home, where activities are mostly sedentary, moderate temperatures are sufficient.
- In industrial settings or during physical exertion, it may be necessary to lower the temperature to maintain comfort.
How to improve thermal comfort with IMIT devices
To maintain the right balance between all these factors, it is essential to precisely control heating and cooling systems.
IMIT offers a complete range of room thermostats and programmable thermostats, designed to provide:
- Accurate temperature regulation
- Daily or weekly programming options
- Advanced technologies such as TPI and OpenTherm
- Solutions for mixed heating and cooling systems
Final thoughts
Thermal comfort is not just a matter of degrees on a thermometer: it’s the result of a complex interaction between temperature, humidity, airflow, and personal factors. That’s why fine-tuned system regulation through reliable and precise devices is essential to living or working in healthy, pleasant, and energy-efficient spaces.
Would you like to find the best solution for your system? Visit our website or contact us for personalized advice!