• Thermal Comfort Survey

    Use this tool to identify areas that are too hot or cold.

    Dec. 29, 2015
    4 min read

    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.

    Which of the following do you personally adjust or control in your space? Window blinds or shades
    Room air conditioning unit
    Portable heater
    Permanent heater
    Door to interior space
    Door to exterior space
    Adjustable air vent Ceiling fan
    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     
    If you are dissatisfied, which of the following contributes to your rating?

    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

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