According to ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) standards, the typical temperature control range for thermal comfort in residential and similar occupied spaces (classified as Class A2) is 64.4°F to 80.6°F (18°C to 27°C). This range defines the acceptable indoor temperature boundaries for maintaining occupant comfort, encompassing both heating and cooling considerations.
Understanding ASHRAE Thermal Comfort Standards
ASHRAE standards provide guidelines for indoor environmental quality, focusing on aspects like thermal comfort, air quality, and energy efficiency in buildings. These standards are widely adopted in the United States and globally to ensure healthy and comfortable indoor environments.
Thermal comfort is crucial for occupant well-being and productivity. ASHRAE defines several classes for thermal environments, with Class A2 typically applying to spaces with common thermal expectations, such as homes, offices, and educational buildings, where a high level of thermal comfort is desired.
The Recommended Temperature Control Range
The specified temperature control range outlines the limits within which a building's HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system should operate to maintain thermal comfort for occupants.
| Condition | Class | Recommended Level |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature control range | A2 | 64.4°F to 80.6°F (18°C to 27°C) |
How This Relates to Cooling
For cooling purposes, this ASHRAE-recommended range signifies that indoor temperatures should ideally not exceed 80.6°F (27°C) to maintain acceptable comfort levels. When temperatures rise above this upper limit, cooling systems are typically engaged to bring the indoor temperature back down into the comfortable range.
While the standard provides a broad acceptable range, homeowners often set their cooling thermostats within the upper part of this range for practical comfort and energy efficiency. Common cooling setpoints for homes in the US typically fall between 72°F and 78°F, which are well within the ASHRAE-recommended 64.4°F to 80.6°F band. The lower end of the ASHRAE range (64.4°F) is more relevant for heating considerations, ensuring temperatures do not drop too low.
Practical Considerations for Home Cooling
While ASHRAE standards provide a robust guideline, actual cooling practices in homes can vary based on several factors:
- Personal Preference: Individual comfort levels differ, leading to variations in preferred thermostat settings.
- Humidity: High humidity can make warmer temperatures feel less comfortable, often prompting lower cooling setpoints.
- Energy Efficiency Goals: Many homeowners adjust their thermostats to higher temperatures during unoccupied hours or when away to save on energy costs, staying within the upper boundaries of the recommended range during occupied times.
- Building Insulation: Well-insulated homes can maintain comfortable temperatures more easily, potentially allowing for higher cooling setpoints.
By adhering to the principles behind ASHRAE's thermal comfort standards, homeowners can effectively manage their cooling systems to achieve both comfort and energy efficiency.
