Creative Comfort: Going Beyond the Thermostat Set Point

Many people assume that comfort is primarily determined by the thermostat set-point(s). Not true! We have the potential to be far more comfortable with less energy if we understand the fundamentals of thermal comfort and the environmental, physiological, and psychological factors that affect it. Relatively small adjustments in thermostat set-points can reduce heating or cooling energy by up to 30%. Learn how to apply comfort concepts to your energy efficiency, climate change, and or resilience endeavors. "Thermal comfort" is often viewed as off-limits, in order to avoid what could be perceived as intruding on lifestyle choices. How can information be shared so that it is embraced as an opportunity to enhance comfort while reducing energy use and helping to meet one's sustainability goals? This session puts forth the premise that creative comfort should have a seat at the table as valid as traditional energy and carbon reduction/savings strategies.