The temperature of bedrooms in Swiss households is typically maintained at room temperature. It is estimated that Swiss households consume approximately thirty per cent of the total energy produced in the country. Achieving savings that will simultaneously benefit the environment and result in cost savings is possible. Energy Switzerland
The following article addresses the issue of room temperature in bedrooms.
According to the prevailing legal standards, residential spaces must be heated to a minimum temperature of 20 degrees Celsius. Tenants are entitled to take action if this temperature is not reached; however, this only necessitates heating all living spaces to twenty degrees.
The recommended temperatures are as follows:
– 23 °C in bathrooms
– 20 °C in living rooms/lounges
– 17 °C in bedrooms
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Experts recommend a temperature of between 14 and 18 degrees Celsius as the optimum sleeping temperature to support the body's sleep cycle. The body can slightly reduce its core temperature within this temperature range, promoting deep and restful sleep. A temperature that is too high can precipitate restlessness and disrupt the REM sleep cycle, while a temperature that is too low can also be uncomfortable. Furthermore, a more relaxed environment facilitates the release of melatonin, a hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. Maintaining an optimal room temperature can facilitate improved sleep quality and enhance the ease of falling asleep.
REM sleep (rapid eye movement sleep), also known as paradoxical sleep or desynchronised sleep, is a sleep phase characterised by rapid eye movements when the eyelids are closed, accompanied by a reduced tone of the skeletal muscles and a specific activity pattern in the EEG – theta waves with a frequency of 4 to 8 Hz and slow alpha waves. Additionally, high beta activity is observed, typically occurring only during wakefulness. During REM sleep, there is a further increase in blood pressure and pulse, whereas these parameters are lowered during the non-REM sleep phases. REM sleep
Elevated temperatures during sleep can have a detrimental impact on sleep quality and overall health.
Sleep disorders
Excessive heat can impede the ability to fall asleep and result in frequent nocturnal awakenings.
A reduction in the duration of the REM phase is observed in the presence of elevated temperatures. This is a crucial phase for memory consolidation and emotional processing.
Sweating and Discomfort
Too warm environment can result in an uncomfortably warm sleep due to heavy sweating.
An increase in heart rate is a potential consequence of excessive heat exposure. In the most severe cases, elevated temperatures can precipitate an increase in heart rate, which may contribute to general physical stress. This results in a less restful night's sleep.
A lack of restful sleep can also result in difficulties with concentration and daytime sleepiness.
Long-term health implications
Prolonged periods of sleep deprivation, resulting from elevated room temperatures, have been linked to an increased risk of developing various health issues, including cardiovascular diseases and metabolic disorders.
Therefore, a pleasant sleeping environment is crucial for healthy sleep. Temperatures above 22 degrees Celsius can impair the concentration of many individuals for several reasons.
Discomfort
Elevated temperatures can induce discomfort, which concomitantly impairs the capacity to concentrate.
Physiological Response
The body initiates a cooling mechanism in elevated temperatures, which requires additional energy. In extreme cases, this can impact cognitive function.
Fatigue
The human body is designed to regulate its temperature. When exposed to high temperatures, it expends additional energy to maintain its internal environment, which can lead to feelings of fatigue. This can reduce alertness and the ability to concentrate.
Distraction
Excessive temperatures can cause an individual to focus more on the sensation of heat and sweating than on the tasks at hand, reducing productivity.
Impaired cognitive function
It has been demonstrated that elevated temperatures can impair cognitive function, resulting in difficulties in problem-solving and decision-making.
The factors mentioned above illustrate that many individuals experience a decline in their ability to concentrate when exposed to elevated temperatures. Reducing temperature can improve performance and well-being.
In conclusion, temperatures above 22 degrees Celsius over an extended period can harm well-being. Such effects include poor sleep quality, concentration difficulties, general stress and discomfort, and cognitive impairment. It can be reasonably deduced that persistently elevated room temperatures can result in general discomfort and a notable reduction in quality of life. In the most extreme cases, the immune system may also be compromised. To circumvent the adverse effects of summer heat, it is paramount to guarantee adequate cooling and ventilation in living and working spaces. Conversely, during the winter months, it is essential to adjust the heating to be energy-efficient and conducive to maintaining good health.