How does humidity influence the perceived temperature indoors?

High humidity significantly impacts how we perceive temperature indoors. When humidity levels are high, the air becomes saturated with moisture, which reduces the body's ability to cool itself through the natural process of evaporation. This means that sweat does not evaporate as efficiently, leading to a feeling of increased heat and discomfort. As a result, even if the actual temperature is moderate, high humidity can make the environment feel much warmer than it is. This effect is often expressed in terms of the heat index, which combines temperature and humidity to convey what the temperature feels like to the human body.

In contrast, when humidity levels are low, the air is drier, and sweat evaporates more readily. This allows for more effective cooling of the body, making it feel cooler than it would in humid conditions. Thus, understanding the relationship between humidity and temperature perception is crucial for effective HVAC design and comfort management.