In an office environment in Raleigh, North Carolina, it’s practically impossible to find a perfect temperature that pleases all employees and customers. You’ll always have someone complaining that it’s too hot or too cold. However, the correct office temperature is important because it affects productivity. Office temperatures and humidity levels that are too high or too low can contribute to illness, fatigue, and loss of concentration.
The Right Office Temperature
Because everyone in the office has different needs, it’s hard to find an "ideal" temperature that suits everyone. According to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), the recommended workplace temperature range is between 68 to 76 degrees Fahrenheit. Between 72 and 76 degrees is considered an ideal, happy medium.
Factors to consider when choosing the temperature for your office include:
- The difference between women and men. Women have higher core temperatures and are generally more sensitive to cold temperatures. If you have an office with a lot of women, you can set your temperature higher.
- The building design. Large windows that let in a lot of sunlight will make the office feel warmer, making it necessary to turn down the temperature. Meanwhile, large windows on the cold side of the building may make your space cooler, meaning you’d need to turn the temperature up. Offices with high ceilings may create poor air circulation, and your HVAC system will need to work even harder.
The Ideal Office Humidity Level
Humidity levels can affect the health of both employees and customers. When humidity is too high, it’s a breeding ground for biological growth. But when humidity is too low, the drier air can cause respiratory issues. According to OSHA, office humidity levels should be between 20 and 60 percent. Keeping a relatively good humidity level of around 40 percent is optimal for year-round comfort.
If you want to learn more about how to find the right office temperature for your crew, contact Cape Fear Air, Electric, & Plumbing today at 919-246-5801 for all of your commercial HVAC needs.
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