Ambient temperature
The ambient temperature is the average air temperature surrounding something (such as a person) whether inside or outside. In relation to weather, the ambient temperature is the same as the current air temperature at any one location. Strong wind, and other factors such as surface temperatures may make it feel warmer or colder, but the ambient temperature only relates to the air temperature.
Ambient temperature can also be used to describe the state of objects. For instance, in electronics, the ambient temperature is the air temperature surrounding an object such as an LED. This is a very important parameter that allows equipment such as computers and other electronic devices to operate at peak efficiency.
Ambient temperature is usually expressed in degrees Centigrade (°C) or degrees Fahrenheit (°F).
Services engineers need to establish what the ambient temperature is likely to be at any one time before they can design a heating and cooling system that will create the best possible conditions for people to work in.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Air temperature.
- Building engineering physics.
- BREEAM Thermal comfort.
- Cold stress.
- Comfort.
- Heat stress.
- Heating degree days.
- Maximum and minimum workplace temperatures.
- Mean radiant temperature.
- Operative temperature.
- Overheating.
- Predicted mean vote.
- Psychometric charts.
- Radiant temperature.
- Sling psychrometer.
- Temperature.
- Thermal comfort.
- Thermal environment.
- Thermal indices.
Featured articles and news
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.
CIOB Client Guide (2nd edition) March 2025
Free download covering statutory dutyholder roles under the Building Safety Act and much more.
AI and automation in 3D modelling and spatial design
Can almost half of design development tasks be automated?
Minister quizzed, as responsibility transfers to MHCLG and BSR publishes new building control guidance.
UK environmental regulations reform 2025
Amid wider new approaches to ensure regulators and regulation support growth.
The maintenance challenge of tenements.
BSRIA Statutory Compliance Inspection Checklist
BG80/2025 now significantly updated to include requirements related to important changes in legislation.
Shortlist for the 2025 Roofscape Design Awards
Talent and innovation showcase announcement from the trussed rafter industry.