It’s no secret that finding the right office temperature is a hot topic. Outdated research based primarily on an office full of male employees suggests that the ideal temperature is between 70 to 73 degrees Fahrenheit. Recent studies have provided more insight into the ideal temperature for the workplace. Whether you work from home or in the office, this information can be tremendously helpful when considering what temperature to set your thermostat.
The Ideal Temperature
Recent studies have shown that slightly warmer temperatures are now considered ideal for productivity levels. Most used to consider 70 to 73 degrees Fahrenheit as the best temperature for the office, but a Cornell study found that up to 77 degrees Fahrenheit is now considered optimal.
There are a number of factors to consider when deciding on the right temperature for your office. The first one is, are there women in the office? Studies have shown that women are more productive in warmer office temperatures. Other things to consider are how many windows there are in the office and how tall the ceilings are. Large windows will bring in more sunlight and make the room warmer, while high ceilings can create drafts and make the room feel colder. Having a good understanding of the building and the people in it is key to finding the ideal temperature.
The Role of Humidity
It’s important to consider humidity when determining the ideal office temperature. If the air is too humid people are more likely to sweat and feel tired. On the other hand, lower humidity can make the air feel colder than it actually is, leading to discomfort and dryness. An ideal humidity level is around 40% for year-round comfort.
A great way to gain a consensus for the ideal office temperature is to hold a meeting and discuss the various factors as a team.
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