The health impact of indoor temperature

As urban living keeps us indoors more than 90% of the time, maintaining a comfortable and healthy indoor climate becomes essential. Indoor temperature, much like CO2 levels and humidity, significantly affects human health and the condition of our homes. This article looks at how indoor temperature affects our wellbeing and property condition, and offers practical strategies for optimising the indoor environment.

Impact on human health

Indoor temperature is crucial for properly regulating your body and maintaining a comfortable living environment. The ideal range for most people is between 20°C to 22°C, as recommended by health and environmental experts. However, significant deviations from this range can lead to discomfort and health risks – especially for those that may be more vulnerable like elderly people and those with health conditions.

Cold temperatures:

Reduced blood flow: Cold temperatures cause the body to conserve heat by narrowing blood vessels, which can decrease blood flow to limbs and vital organs.
Risk of hypothermia: Prolonged exposure can increase the risk of hypothermia, especially for vulnerable groups like the elderly or those with chronic health issues.
Respiratory problems: Dry, cold air can irritate the lungs, exacerbating asthma and increasing susceptibility to respiratory infections like colds and flu.

Hot temperatures:

Dehydration and heat exhaustion: Prolonged exposure to excessive heat can lead to dehydration and heat exhaustion, with symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, and nausea.
Heat stroke: Severe heat can overwhelm the body’s cooling systems, potentially causing confusion, unconsciousness, and other critical symptoms.
Cardiovascular strain: High temperatures increase the body’s demand for blood circulation, which can strain the heart and worsen pre-existing cardiovascular conditions

Extreme cold and heat can significantly interfere with sleep. Poor sleep due to temperature extremes may weaken the immune system, impair cognitive performance, and contribute to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Furthermore, environments with fluctuating temperatures—where heating or cooling systems cycle on and off—can disrupt sleep quality and disturb the natural circadian rhythm.

Impact on homes

Indoor temperature not only affects the health of occupants but also plays a pivotal role in the maintenance of the home. Extreme temperature variations can cause significant wear and tear on a building’s structure and systems.

Building materials and energy efficiency:

Damage: Temperature fluctuations can cause materials like wood and plaster to expand and contract, leading to cracks, warping, or structural instability.
Increased energy costs: Poorly regulated indoor temperatures and inadequate insulation force heating or cooling systems to work harder, raising energy consumption and costs.
Draughty homes: Faulty insulation or windows can make it challenging to maintain a stable temperature, resulting in uncomfortable and inefficient living spaces.

Mould and humidity

Cold Environments: Low temperatures can lead to condensation on windows and walls, fostering mould growth.
Warm, humid conditions: Excess heat combined with high humidity can also promote mould, which can cause respiratory issues and allergies.

Managing indoor temperature

Achieving a balanced indoor temperature can be achieved through a combination of proactive strategies and modern technology:

Effective insulation:
- Seal gaps around windows and doors to minimise drafts and energy loss – but remember you still need to effectively ventilate your property to prevent other issues like mould.
- Upgrade insulation to maintain a consistent indoor climate.
Smart heating and cooling:
- Use programmable thermostats to adjust heating or cooling based on occupancy.
- Propflo’s HomeHub can monitor indoor climate and suggest adjustments for optimal comfort and energy efficiency.
Ventilation:
- Ensure proper air circulation to reduce the risk of condensation and maintain air quality.
- During extreme heat, consider cross-ventilation or fans to supplement air conditioning.
Seasonal adjustments:
- In winter, balance warmth with humidity control to prevent mould.
- In summer, use shading solutions like blinds or reflective coatings to minimize heat entry.

Maintaining a stable indoor temperature is essential for both human health and the maintenance of a home. A balanced, well-regulated indoor climate promotes comfort, reduces health risks, and ensures the home remains in good condition for years to come.