Sleep quality and thermal comfort assessment in the hot and humid climate of Malaysia

• Published in: Advances in building energy research 2025-01, Vol.19 (1), p.87-112
• Main Authors: Rosli, Mohamad Faizal, Zaki, Sheikh Ahmad, Singh, Manoj Kumar, Rijal, Hom Bahadur, Othman, Nor'azizi
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Air conditioners; Air conditioning; Cooling effects; hot and humid climate; Humid climates; individual preferences; Sleep; Sleep and wakefulness; Sleep quality; Thermal comfort; thermal sensation
• ISSN: 1751-2549; 1756-2201
• DOI: 10.1080/17512549.2024.2411269

This study examines the relationship between thermal comfort and sleep quality among 417 Malaysian adults via an online survey conducted from November 2019 to April 2020. Participants provided demographic information, thermal comfort, and sleep quality data. The research explores how factors such as air conditioning and pre-sleep behaviours influence individuals' perceptions of thermal comfort and sleep quality. Findings reveal that thermal sensations change during sleep, with respondents reporting a 50% decrease in warmer sensations upon waking compared to before sleep, and a nearly threefold increase in preference for warmer conditions. Sleep quality responses indicate high levels of calmness and satisfaction, with minimal awakenings at an average of 0.9. Air conditioning, available to 60% of respondents, showed limited improvement in perceived sleep quality, with more air-conditioned individuals reporting night awakenings (68%) compared to those without (53%). Pre-sleep behaviours, such as consuming drinks, were associated with lower thermal sensation upon waking, suggesting a potential cooling effect, while taking a shower before sleep correlated with increased overall comfort, potentially enhancing the sleep experience.