How is a comfortable indoor climate actually created – and how can it be measured? These questions were the focus of a workshop that recently took place at Hof University of Applied Sciences as part of the “EnerNET – Continuing Education Network for Energy, Cooling and Local Heating” network. Around 20 experts from the air conditioning and refrigeration technology sector accepted the invitation from the Institute for Hydrogen and Energy Technology (iwe) to learn about the theoretical principles and practical measurement methods for thermal comfort.
In the introductory theory unit, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Thomas Schlosser explained the physical and physiological principles of the human heat balance. According to Schlosser, comfort is the subjective physical and mental well-being, which is influenced by numerous environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, radiation, light, sound and odors. Thermal comfort, i.e. the state in which the human body can release its heat without exertion, plays a central role here. “Ideally, thermoregulatory measures should not be necessary at all,” explained the speaker – deviations from a comfortable climate, on the other hand, lead to dissatisfaction and even to a loss of performance in the long term.
Scientifically measurable well-being
Using equations and international standards, Schlosser showed how indoor climates can be described and evaluated mathematically. Parameters such as air temperature, radiation temperature, air speed, humidity, clothing and activity level determine personal well-being. Air quality was also discussed: Fresh, clean air without pollutants or odors is a prerequisite for so-called air-hygienic comfort.
Practical measurements on site
In the practical part that followed, the participants carried out their own measurements on air quality and indoor climate under the guidance of the speaker. Sensors were used to record temperature curves, humidity and CO₂ concentrations. This gave the participants valuable insights into the methods of indoor climate monitoring and the importance of objective data for subjective well-being.
Energy efficiency and comfort in harmony
The workshop thus made it clear that comfort is far more than just a question of room temperature – it is created by the complex interplay of technical, physical and human factors. The great interest shown by the participants demonstrated how important this knowledge is for the planning of energy-efficient and comfortable buildings.
Outlook: “Sorption cooling” workshop on October 22
The “EnerNET” series of events will continue on October 22, 2025: The “Sorption cooling” workshop will focus on the use of processes for environmentally friendly cooling. Here, adsorption or absorption is used to bind thermal energy and thus generate cold. The advantage of sorption cooling technology lies in the use of heat sources that would otherwise remain unused and in the possibility of reducing peak loads in electricity grids. Participants will have the opportunity to visit the Green Chiller Association’s unique and mobile training room, the “SorptionTakeOff” trailer. It contains a complete water/lithium bromide absorption refrigeration system for demonstrating, learning and consolidating knowledge about sorption refrigeration technology, followed by a network meeting with the opportunity for professional exchange over dinner.
Registration at:
EnerNET K6 Sorption Network Meeting or email: diana.stein.2@hof-university.de
The event is free of charge and is aimed at anyone interested in the fields of energy, cooling and local heating.
