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This past week has been a scorcher alright, with the hottest day of the year (so far) being flagged. Not that I am complaining. I personally love summer for the heat and humidity I think we are fortunate enough to have here. Being recently back from a trip to Newfoundland this summer, it is a welcome contrast to the low temperatures they have experienced in St. John’s – low enough to have me hear people saying “I think we need to turn the heat on to take the chill off.” – Imagine, heating in summer! However, I am sure most of you in the GTA would love to channel that cold Atlantic Ocean air right into your offices or homes right now.
While it would be nice to be able to do that, unfortunately we can’t. Fortunately though, we’ve had air conditioning available for a number of years. I’ve read books and news archive articles on past heat waves in Toronto, when there wasn’t A/C, and in most cases people didn’t even have fans. It would be hard for most of us to imagine! I have always been interested in older homes, and how the design of homes helped keep the houses (and residents) cool (and warm in the winter). Features like window placement for maximum airflow, including doorways (including interior) with windows that open above the door also allowed airflow. Wrap around porches offered shade to windows, and a place for residents to sleep on hot nights. Tin roofs had their advantages as well, being reflective. And those thick walls weren’t just better craftsmanship to what we have today, they served as insulation. Maybe some of those design features should be reincorporated into modern design.
But there is no question that Air Conditioning has greatly improved quality of life. It not only lowers the space temperature but removes the humidity which causes more people discomfort. The instances of heat related deaths are considerably less. Those with conditions such as asthma find it much easier to function. And let’s face it, the majority are just more comfortable with A/C and can’t imagine life without it.
It is important that cooling systems, be it a roof top unit or chilled water plant, runs well for maximum efficiency and comfort. As a building owner or operator it is important to find the balance between occupant comfort and operating costs. Making sure the system is running well, and has a schedule to meet the needs of the occupants is essential to the eco-system and your wallet. CFMS can help you ensure you are comfortable indoors this season of heat, it’s never too late to contact us!