Paris – 25.06.2026: A recently published study highlights a common problem in offices: women often find the air conditioning too cold, while men feel comfortable. This imbalance results from the fact that air conditioning systems have traditionally been calibrated to the metabolism of the average man.
The research is based on a model from the 1960s that considers the resting metabolic rate of a 70-kilogram, 40-year-old man. This model became the basis for calculating the optimal room temperature in offices. However, subsequent studies have shown that women exhibit higher heat sensitivity due to their different metabolism and body structure.
One example of this discrepancy comes from a study in which 16 young women were tested during office work. The results showed that the women’s metabolism was significantly slower than that of an average man, leading to lower heat production.
These findings raise questions about energy efficiency. If air conditioning were adjusted to women’s metabolism, it could reduce energy consumption and thus contribute to lowering CO₂ emissions.
The debate about adapting air conditioning to the different needs of men and women is not new. As early as 2015, a study found that standard air conditioning systems are set to the “standard man,” causing women to feel cold faster.
Despite this knowledge, the question remains whether and how offices will adjust their air conditioning to meet the diverse needs of their employees. Such an adjustment could not only increase employee comfort but also have positive effects on the environment.
Overall, current research shows that the traditional setting of air conditioning based on male metabolism can disadvantage women. Reviewing and adjusting these standards could contribute to a fairer and more energy-efficient work environment.