General Comfort

When indoor temperatures are either above or below recommended comfort zones, people sometimes feel that there is something wrong with the building's indoor air quality. However, this is not necessarily the case. Sometimes a simple temperature adjustment can increase occupant comfort. Ideally the temperature should range between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit and humidity should range between 30 and 60%.

During cold weather months, there is generally very little moisture in the outdoor air. As the cold outdoor air is drawn into a building's ventilation system and subsequently heated, the amount of moisture in the air is reduced further resulting in dry indoor conditions. Utah's air is naturally lower in relative humidity than other areas of the country with an annual average (according to the National Weather Service) of approximately 51%. In winter months it can drop as low as 22% (The Sahara Desert has an annual average of 25% RH). Low humidity can cause symptoms which mimic the symptoms of poor indoor air quality such as dry eyes, respiratory irritation, sneezing, etc.

Although it is possible to humidify the indoor air in your office through the use of portable humidifiers this practice is highly discouraged for the following reasons:

  • It is difficult to control the actual relative humidity levels using these types of units. If indoor moisture levels (relative humidity) rise above a certain level, fungi and bacteria may begin to grow, causing very real indoor air quality problems.
  • Humidifiers are very maintenance intensive and when not maintained in accordance with manufacturer's specifications the water reservoir in these humidifiers may become an incubator for bacteria and fungi.
If you need to adjust the temperature or have other concerns relating to general comfort in your area contact Facilities Management at 801-581-7221.