There are many factors that impact employee productivity. One of the most significant is comfort, which is directly tied to the temperature you set on the thermostat. While it’s impossible to accommodate everyone’s specific preferences, regulating the temperature could affect your team’s performance, reduce the need for HVAC repairs, and contribute to a more positive working environment. Here’s what you need to know.

How to Choose the Right Temperature for the Office

Why Does Office Temperature Really Matter?

When you’re comfortable, it’s easy to forget that being too hot or too cold can severely take away from your productivity. But when the HVAC temperature is set too low, you may have difficulty concentrating on the tasks before you. People with sensitive skin, compromised immune systems, or conditions like arthritis may even have trouble moving their fingers easily. Conversely, too much heat may cause drowsiness and make it tough to focus. Being too hot or cold in the office can also contribute to an overall downward shift in mood for employees—they may perceive the office in a negative light if they’re never quite comfortable while there.

What Is the Appropriate Office Temperature?

You may set the thermostat low to reduce costs and prevent HVAC repairs, but this could be detrimental in the long run. That’s because all office settings are unique to their temperature needs. According to the National Institute on Aging, for example, older people lose body heat at a faster rate than younger individuals, which means they’re more susceptible to health issues if exposed to cold for extended periods. It’s worth dialing up the thermostat a bit if your office is largely comprised of older workers. Otherwise, the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) suggests a temperature between 68 and 76 degrees for optimal comfort.

What if It Still Feels Too Cold?

There are other factors that may affect comfort. If you’ve turned up the thermostat to a reasonable temperature, encourage staff to do what they can for their comfort. You might position desks near large windows so they can take advantage of natural light and warmth, for example. It’s also worth contacting an HVAC repair professional if you’re concerned that the unit isn’t meeting your desired temperature setting. A dirty filter or broken part could compromise performance.

If you’re seeking a qualified technician to inspect your office HVAC system, turn to the experts at Bernie Buchner. Serving La Crosse, WI, for more than 60 years, this company provides everything from complete installations to HVAC repairs. They’ll quickly diagnose any existing problems to ensure that your system works as efficiently as possible. Visit them online to learn more about their HVAC services; or, give them a call at (608) 784-9000 to schedule an appointment.