Are you brave enough to ask your occupants how they really feel about the temperature in their space? This abbreviated version of ASHRAE 55’s satisfaction survey captures the various factors that affect thermal comfort, such as time of day, proximity to exterior walls or windows, and number of vents. The data will help identify sources of discomfort so you can make targeted improvements.
Make sure to include relevant information such as seasonal conditions, worker activity level, and location within the building (orientation, floor number, envelope proximity). You can also gain additional insights by including an open-ended question for occupants to elaborate on their thermal comfort rating.
The worst thing you can do is hand out this survey and then ignore the feedback. Occupants will think you're trying to placate them rather than problem solve. Read more about fast fixes that will make their environment enjoyable.
Room air conditioning unit
Portable heater
Permanent heater
Door to interior space
Door to exterior space
Adjustable air vent
Adjustable floor air vent (diffuser)
Portable fan
Thermostat
Operable window
None of these
| How satisfied are you with the temperature in your space? | |
| Very satisfied Somewhat satisfied Slightly satisfied Neutral | Slightly satisfied Somewhat dissatisfied Very dissatisfied |
a. In hot weather, the temperature is
Always too hot
Often too hot
Occasionally too hot
Occasionally too cold
Often too cold
Always too cold
When is this most often a problem?
Morning (before 11am)
Mid-day (11am–2pm)
Afternoon (2pm–5pm)
Weekends/holidays
Monday mornings
No particular time
Always
b. In cold weather, the temperature is
Always too hot
Often too hot
Occasionally too hot
Occasionally too cold
Often too cold
Always too cold
When is this most often a problem?
Morning (before 11am)
Mid-day (11am–2pm)
Afternoon (2pm–5pm)
Weekends/holidays
Monday mornings
No particular time
Always
How would you best describe the source of this discomfort? | |
| Humidity too high (damp) Humidity too low (dry) Air movement too high Air movement too low Incoming sun Heat from office equipment Drafts from windows Drafts from vents | My area is hotter/colder than other areas Thermostat is inaccessible Thermostat is adjusted by other people Clothing policy is not flexible Heating/cooling system does not respond quickly enough to the thermostat Hot/cold surrounding surfaces (floor, ceiling, walls or windows) Deficient window (not operable) |
INFORMATION COURTESY OF ASHRAE
