A study commissioned by the Federal Environment Agency has shown that temperatures above 26 degrees Celsius could increase the time spent in living rooms by more than half and in offices by around a quarter. This would have a negative impact on comfort and health. It is therefore increasingly important to protect buildings from overheating. As the number of hot days and tropical nights is increasing, individual measures are no longer enough, according to the Federal Environment Agency.
To mitigate the heat effect, several measures are required at the same time. These include, above all, external sun protection such as blinds and intensive ventilation at night. Smaller window areas, solid walls and ceilings and limiting electrical appliances can also contribute to a cool indoor climate. If this is not enough, solar control glazing and passive cooling can be helpful.
According to the Federal Environment Agency, people's behavior also plays a key role in cooling rooms. Anyone who does not use sun protection elements consistently, does not open the windows wide enough at night or does not switch off electrical appliances risks high indoor temperatures. Therefore, in addition to technical measures, conscious use and adaptation of behavior is also necessary to keep indoor spaces pleasantly cool.
Source and further information: umweltbundesamt.de
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