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We use temperature and humidity as indicators of comfort because they can really affect how people feel. For example, if it’s really hot and humid, it can make the air feel stuffy and uncomfortable. On the other hand, if it’s cold and dry, it can make the air feel chilly and uncomfortable.
By monitoring temperature and humidity, we can help make sure your space is comfortable for everyone by keeping these factors at a good level.
Temp
What is Temperature?
Temperature is a physical quantity that expresses the degree of hotness or coldness of an object or environment. Here at Tether we are a kiwi company and measure Temperature in degrees Celsius.
Why is it important?
Data Correlation: Temperature can be a great reference point for making correlations between different data points.
Dew Point Calculation: Temperature and Relative Humidity readings to calculate dew point.
ECE Requirements: In New Zealand, all Early Childhood Centre's hold a legal requirement to keep they’re center's at a minimum of 18 degrees Celsius at all occupied times.
Humidity
What is Relative Humidity?
Relative humidity (RH) is the amount of moisture in the air compared to the maximum amount of moisture the air could hold at the same temperature. It's expressed as a percentage. In simple terms, it tells you how "full" the air is of water vapour.
Why is it important?
Comfort: Relative humidity levels between 30% and 60% are considered comfortable for humans. Too low or too high humidity can result in discomfort, such as dry skin and eyes or a feeling of stuffiness.
Health: Low humidity can cause respiratory issues and irritate the eyes and skin. High humidity can lead to mold growth, which can also have health implications, such as allergies and asthma attacks.
Energy Efficiency: Managing humidity can also be energy-efficient. For instance, humid air feels warmer, potentially reducing the need for heating in winter.
Preservation of Materials: Low humidity can cause wooden furniture to crack, while high humidity can cause it to swell. Books, art, and other sensitive materials also benefit from a controlled humidity environment.
Indoor Air Quality: Proper humidity levels can reduce the concentration of airborne pollutants, such as dust and allergens.
Electronics: Low humidity can increase the likelihood of static electricity, which can be damaging to electronic devices.
In summary, maintaining appropriate levels of relative humidity in a home or office is essential for comfort, health, and even the longevity of materials and devices in the space.
Dew Point
What Does Dew Point Mean?
The dew point is the temperature at which air becomes saturated with moisture and water vapour begins to condense into liquid water (dew). In other words, it's the temperature at which the relative humidity of the air becomes 100%. The concept is important in various fields such as meteorology, HVAC design, and agriculture.
Why is it important?
Comfort Level: A high dew point (above 65°F or 18°C) indicates high moisture content in the air, which can feel muggy or uncomfortable. A low dew point indicates dry air.
Air Quality: The dew point can indirectly affect air quality. For instance, high humidity levels can exacerbate the impact of pollutants, and conditions that are conducive to dew formation may also lead to air stagnation.
Industrial Processes: In various industries like painting or dry goods storage, managing the dew point is essential to prevent condensation and maintain quality.
Understanding the dew point can provide valuable insights into weather conditions and help in various practical applications.
C02
What is C02?
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a colourless, odourless gas that is naturally present in Earth's atmosphere. CO2 is produced by the respiration of animals and plants, the decay of organic matter, volcanic eruptions, and human activities like burning fossil fuels and deforestation.
Why is it important?
Indoor Air Quality: Elevated levels of CO2 inside a building can indicate poor ventilation, which in turn could mean that other indoor pollutants are also accumulating.
Ventilation: CO2 levels are often used as a proxy to assess whether a building is properly ventilated. Poorly ventilated spaces can lead to a buildup of pollutants and pathogens.
Energy Efficiency: Monitoring CO2 can help in controlling ventilation systems more efficiently, thus saving energy. For example, in spaces that are less occupied, ventilation can be reduced, thereby conserving energy.
Occupant Comfort: High levels of CO2 can lead to a stuffy environment, which can be uncomfortable for occupants.
Cognitive Function: Studies have shown that high levels of CO2 can impair cognitive function, reduce decision-making abilities, and increase feelings of fatigue.
Well-being: Elevated CO2 levels can contribute to symptoms like headaches, dizziness, shortness of breath, and impaired thinking.
Spread of Illness: Poor ventilation indicated by high CO2 levels can also mean that airborne pathogens are not being effectively removed, increasing the risk of illness spreading among employees.
Stress and Fatigue: High CO2 levels can make an environment feel "stuffy," contributing to discomfort and feelings of stress or fatigue.
Productivity: All the above factors can lead to reduced productivity and increased absenteeism among employees.
Therefore, monitoring and controlling CO2 levels in buildings are crucial for both the structural integrity of the building and the well-being of its occupants.
