The best way to keep an office cool in the hot summer

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In summary, to keep an office cool during the hot summer, utilize energy-efficient air conditioning systems, close blinds or curtains to block sunlight, use fans to improve air circulation, and maintain proper ventilation. Encourage employees to dress in light clothing, stay hydrated, and consider scheduling breaks during the hottest parts of the day. Additionally, regular maintenance of cooling systems can enhance efficiency and comfort.
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pinball1970
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Large office, no AC, uncomfortably hot do we open all the windows or not?
Rectangular office accommodates 10 people, two doors and one wall has windows the full length of the room.
My office is within, no windows and no direct sunlight there.
The temperature went from 20C at 8am to 25C by 3pm.
Similar temp in the main office.
All windows were open so my thinking is the office is heating via convection.
So no air, hot, sticky/humid and opening the windows just makes it worse, my idea, the other occupants disagree.
No direct sunlight so not much greenhouse effect. Temp here is now 19C predicting to rise to 26C by 4pm
Windows already open.... (8.30am)
I would suggest they are shut before midday 23C, predicted by thenEDIT. Humidity 90% wind is 1mph.

https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/forecast/gcw824kcj#?date=2023-09-08

Just to add some context.

I know posters have been citing 100F plus temperatures so my discomfort at mid 70sF seems trivial.

I appreciate how uncomfortable that must be.

However, The UK has a temperate climate, hot but not too hot in the summer cold but not too cold in the winter with rain throughout the year.

Nothing too drastic so we wilt in hot weather. (23C plus)

If it snows and sticks this is quite a thing, we are not great in the snow either.
 
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Hard to say. Closing the windows could retain all that heat created by people, computers, etc. Do you have a floor/desk fan? Just some airflow would probably do wonders for you.

Though I wish I could trade you weather right now. Nearly 39C outside today, and we just had a month or more of nearly nonstop of 39-41 C weather up until last week. We lost power for 36 hours back in June and it was around 31C inside my house. At night.
 
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  • #3
Drakkith said:
Hard to say. Closing the windows could retain all that heat created by people, computers, etc. Do you have a floor/desk fan? Just some airflow would probably do wonders for you.

Though I wish I could trade you weather right now. Nearly 39C outside today, and we just had a month or more of nearly nonstop of 39-41 C weather up until last week. We lost power for 36 hours back in June and it was around 31C inside my house. At night.
The computers are quite cool, currently 6 occupants main office with me in my office.

It is not too bad right now but it is only 9.49am

39C is crazy, I do not know how people function in that kind of heat.

Anything over 23C at night is uncomfortable.

2022 was the hottest on record for the UK hitting 40C in Lincolnshire, and 36C up here (Northwest)

That was unbearable.
 
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pinball1970 said:
39C is crazy, I do not know how people function in that kind of heat.
Partially adaptation (for those who actually go out regularly in that kind of heat), plus drinking lots of fluids and staying in the shade as much as we can. Most people stay in the air conditioned interiors if at all possible. I grew up just a little south of Dallas, Texas, around 32 degrees north in latitude, with no central AC in our house and just a box fan in the window at night. In the summer daytime we would often play outside in the 95+ degree weather (35+ C). Lots of drinking out of the backyard garden hose!
 
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  • #5
Drakkith said:
Do you have a floor/desk fan? Just some airflow would probably do wonders for you.
I know the OP is asking about the windows but this^^^ Before AC everyone used fans.
 
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  • #7
pinball1970 said:
The girls have already claimed the desk fans.
Fans are cheap. Grab a desk or floor fan from your fan outlet of choice and let his royal airness wash over you.

As for whether to open the windows or leave them closed, that I can't help you with. However, a single AC window unit might do your office wonders. Just make sure you get the power and plug requirements right. Don't want to blow a fuse because you bought one that draws 50% more current than the circuit can handle.
 
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  • #8
pinball1970 said:
Rectangular office accommodates 10 people, two doors and one wall has windows the full length of the room.
My office is within, no windows and no direct sunlight there.
It would be ideal to mechanically exhaust as much interior hot-humid air as possible, making the make-up air sweep the length of the office from inlet to outlet.

The killer is the film of stagnant air located next to everyone's skin, which prevents its drying and cooling.
Turbulent air stream can break and remove those films.

You could achieve a good breeze constantly moving from one end of the office to the other, by selecting one or more suitable window fan, and by eliminating air infiltrations between inlet and outlet (closing most windows, but using the extreme ones).

Avoid blowing-in fans, which add the heat of the motor to the interior air and which airstream can only reach a few feet away from it.

Please, see:
https://sanbornsac.com/how-to-improve-air-circulation/

https://www.bigrentz.com/blog/air-change-rates

https://www.google.com/search?q=win...mg&ei=Otn7ZPOwKMHK5NoPm4KGUA&bih=706&biw=1056
 
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  • #9
pinball1970 said:
All windows were open so my thinking is the office is heating via convection.
So no air, hot, sticky/humid and opening the windows just makes it worse, my idea, the other occupants disagree.
You can help settle the arguments by getting an indoor-outdoor thermometer and proposing a policy: If outside temperature is better than inside temperature, then open windows. Otherwise, close windows. Image of typical thermometer randomly grabbed from internet:

Thermometer.jpg
 
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FAQ: The best way to keep an office cool in the hot summer

What is the most effective way to cool an office during the summer?

The most effective way to cool an office during the summer is to use a combination of air conditioning and proper ventilation. Ensure that the air conditioning unit is appropriately sized for the office space and that it is regularly maintained for optimal performance. Additionally, use fans to circulate the cool air and keep windows and doors closed to prevent hot air from entering.

How can I reduce the heat generated by office equipment?

To reduce the heat generated by office equipment, turn off devices when they are not in use, enable energy-saving modes, and use energy-efficient equipment. Position heat-generating devices like computers and printers away from workstations to minimize their impact on the ambient temperature. Additionally, consider using LED lighting, which generates less heat compared to traditional incandescent bulbs.

Are there any cost-effective methods to keep an office cool?

Yes, there are several cost-effective methods to keep an office cool. Use blinds or shades to block out direct sunlight, especially during peak hours. Install reflective window film to reduce heat gain. Utilize natural ventilation by opening windows during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening. Additionally, encourage employees to dress in lighter, breathable fabrics.

How can I improve air circulation in the office?

To improve air circulation in the office, strategically place fans to create a cross-breeze. Use ceiling fans to keep air moving and prevent it from becoming stagnant. Ensure that air vents are not obstructed by furniture or other objects. Regularly clean air filters and ducts to maintain good airflow and reduce the buildup of dust and allergens.

What role does insulation play in keeping an office cool?

Insulation plays a significant role in keeping an office cool by reducing the amount of heat that enters the building. Properly insulated walls, ceilings, and floors help maintain a stable indoor temperature by minimizing heat transfer from the outside. Additionally, insulating windows with double glazing or using thermal curtains can further enhance the office's ability to stay cool during the summer months.

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