Sign-In
Cart
Thermal Comfort Paradoxes in Smart Buildings and AI-Controlled HVAC
Paperback
General Construction & Renovation
Publisher: Independently Published
Published: May 18 2026
Pages: 198
Weight: 0.54
Height: 0.50 Width: 6.00 Depth: 9.00
Language: English
The modern building is no longer a passive shell responding to climate. It has become an active, sensing, learning, and continuously adjusting organism. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems-once designed around fixed assumptions and steady-state calculations-are now governed by algorithms that learn from occupancy patterns, predict thermal loads, and optimize energy consumption in real time.
Yet, despite this technological evolution, one persistent contradiction remains: occupants still feel too hot, too cold, or simply uncomfortable in buildings that are technically operating within design parameters.
This is the central paradox explored in this book.
As HVAC systems become more intelligent through AI, machine learning, and advanced Building Management Systems (BMS), the definition of comfort is increasingly treated as a data problem rather than a human experience. Temperature, humidity, CO₂ levels, and airflow are measured with precision. Optimization targets are achieved. Energy consumption is reduced. And still, complaints persist.
Why?
Because thermal comfort is not purely physical-it is psychological, contextual, and deeply individual. AI-driven HVAC systems optimize for averages, patterns, and efficiency curves, while humans experience comfort through variability, expectation, adaptation, and perception.
This book is written for engineers, designers, facility managers, and decision-makers who are facing this disconnect firsthand. It does not reject AI in HVAC systems; rather, it questions how it is being applied, and whether current optimization strategies are truly aligned with human-centric design.
The goal is not to simplify the problem, but to expose its layers: technical, behavioral, and organizational. By understanding where intelligent systems succeed and where they fail in interpreting human comfort, we can move toward a more balanced and realistic approach to smart building design.
Ultimately, this book argues that the future of HVAC is not just smarter control-but better judgment. And judgment requires more than data.
Also from
Nehme, Charles
A Practical Guide to HVAC Ductwork Installation: From Plan to Finish (Version 2)
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
HVAC Electrical Systems: Power and Control for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Air Conditioning Maintenance and Troubleshooting: A Comprehensive Guide to Efficient and Safe HVAC Care
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Liquid Cooling for Data Centers: Design, Implementation, and Optimization for Sustainable Computing
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
High-Density Cooling for the AI Era: Adapting Data Centers to 50-100 kW/Rack Workloads
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Generators in Data Centers and Mission-Critical Infrastructure: Ensuring Reliable Backup Power Systems
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
MEP Engineering: A Comprehensive Guide to Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Systems
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
The Liquid Core Innovation: Hybrid Cooling and Vertical Silo Architecture for AI-Ready Data Centers
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
HVAC Quality Assurance: Best Practices for System Performance and Compliance
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Site Acceptance Test (SAT) Documentation: Validating Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) Systems
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Airflow Optimization in Data Centers: Preventing Hotspots and Maximizing Efficiency
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Net-Zero Energy Building Design: Principles and Strategies for Achieving Net-Zero Energy in Buildings.
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Data Center Liquid Cooling Design Matrix: Technical Standards and Decision Framework for Advanced Cooling Systems
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Systems for Hospitals: A Comprehensive Guide
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Excellence in MEP: A Comprehensive Guide to Quality Control in Building Services
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
MEP Bidding and Project Management: A Comprehensive Guide to Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Success
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Data Center Cooling Solutions: Harnessing Ventilation and Free Cooling for Sustainability
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Master Your Building Projects: Essential Software for HVAC, Electrical & Firefighting
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Self-Healing Materials in HVAC Systems: Innovations for Durability, Efficiency, and Sustainability
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
The Comprehensive Guide to Running a Successful HVAC Business: Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Sound-Frequency Air Purification: Revolutionizing Clean Air Without Filters or Ozone
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Direct-to-Chip Cooling: Revolutionizing Thermal Management in High-Performance Electronics
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Heat Recovery from Chillers: Harnessing Waste Heat for Building Heating and Industrial Efficiency
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Choosing the Right HVAC System: Factors to Consider When Upgrading or Replacing Your System
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
The MEP Forensic Files: Investigating and Solving Billion-Dollar Building Failures
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Your Simple Guide to Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC): A Simple Introduction for Non-Technical People
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
HVAC Systems in Electric Vehicles: Design, Efficiency, and Future Innovations
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Chillers in Industrial Applications - Process Cooling for Manufacturing and Heavy Industry
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Technologies in Data Centers: Innovations for Efficiency, Security, and Sustainability
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
The Future of Engineering Education: Trends, technologies, and techniques shaping the next generation.
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Writing HVAC Maintenance Contracts: A Practical Guide for HVAC Professionals and Facility Managers
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Duct Pressure Drops in HVAC Systems: Principles, Calculation, and Minimization
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Construction Insulation: A Guide to Energy Efficiency, Comfort, and Sustainability
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
The Data Center Fire Safety Handbook: Prevention, Preparedness, and Recovery
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
HVAC Systems for Bunkers: Designing and Maintaining Life-Support Environments
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Mastering Fire Protection: A Comprehensive Guide to Fire Safety Systems and Emerging Technologies
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Mastering Business Development: A Comprehensive Guide to Achieving Sustainable Growth
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Steam Turbine Technology: Efficiency, Safety, and Environmental Considerations
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Commercial Kitchen Ventilation: Strategies for Efficiency, Safety, and Sustainability
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Facilities Preventive Maintenance: Guide to Preventive Maintenance Strategies
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Fan Coil Units (FCUs): A Comprehensive Guide to Versatile and Efficient HVAC Solutions
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Data Centers Immersion Cooling: A Comprehensive Guide to Design, Implementation, and Operation
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Energy Management Systems: Enhancing Efficiency and Sustainability for the Future
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
HVAC Site Acceptance Testing in Pharmaceutical Plants: Ensuring Quality, Compliance, and Efficiency
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Hydronic vs. Air-Based HVAC Systems: A Comparative Guide for Designers and Engineers
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
HVAC for Aging Buildings: Retrofitting Historic or Aging Structures While Maintaining Architectural Integrity
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Advanced Composites in Construction: Innovations in Materials for Lighter and Stronger Structures
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
The Ultimate Data Center Blueprint: Planning, Designing, and Operating Next-Gen Smart Facilities
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
HVAC Problems & Solutions (Second Edition): Practical Troubleshooting for Engineers, Technicians, and Facility Managers
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Chilled Water System Designs: Optimizing Efficiency, Performance, and Reliability
Nehme, Charles
Paperback
Also in
General Construction & Renovation
City Witchery: Accessible Rituals, Practices & Prompts for Conjuring and Creating in a Magical Metropolis
Basile, Lisa Marie
Paperback
Creating the Not So Big House: Insights and Ideas for the New American House
Susanka, Sarah
Hardcover
Martha Stewart's Homekeeping Handbook: The Essential Guide to Caring for Everything in Your Home
Stewart, Martha
Hardcover
Small House, Big Life, in 400 Square Feet: Tips and Strategies for Living in a Small Space
Bryant, Megan
Paperback
Best-Selling 1-Story Home Plans, 5th Edition: Over 360 Dream-Home Plans in Full Color
Editors of Creative Homeowner
Paperback
The Art of Home: A Designer Guide to Creating an Elevated Yet Approachable Home
McGee, Shea
Hardcover
Small Engines and Outdoor Power Equipment, Updated 2nd Edition: A Care & Repair Guide For: Lawn Mowers, Snowblowers & Small Gas-Powered Imple
Editors of Cool Springs Press
Paperback
Ultimate Guide: Small Space Kitchen Gardens: How to Plan, Plant, and Harvest High-Yield Vegetable Gardens
Koziol, Nina
Paperback
Good Character: Design with Intention to Reveal Your Home's Personality
St Russell, David
St Russell, Stephen
Hardcover
Big Book of Small Home Plans, 2nd Edition: Over 360 Home Plans Under 1200 Square Feet
Design America Inc
Paperback
Black and Decker Advanced Home Wiring Updated 6th Edition: Current with 2023-2026 Codes - Featuring Instructions For: Backup Power, Panel Upgrades, Af
Editors of Cool Springs Press
Paperback
Building Outdoor Kitchens for Every Budget, 2nd Edition: DIY Instructions and Over 300 Photos for Attractive and Functional Kitchens No Matter Your Bu
Cory, Steve
Slavik, Diane
Paperback
DIY Solar Projects for Beginners: Small and Easy Projects to Whole-Home Systems That Use the Sun
Smith, Eric
Paperback
The Layered Home: An Interior Design Book: Inspiration for Crafting Cozy, Collected Rooms
Reynaert, Benjamin
Hardcover
Martha Stewart's Organizing: The Manual for Bringing Order to Your Life, Home & Routines
Stewart, Martha
Hardcover
Ultimate Book of Home Plans, Completely Updated & Revised 4th Edition: Over 680 Home Plans in Full Color: North America's Premier Designer Network: Sp
Editors of Creative Homeowner
Paperback
Ultimate Guide: Decks, Updated 6th Edition: Plan, Design, Build
Editors of Creative Homeowner
Paperback
Ultimate Guide to Home Repair and Improvement, 3rd Updated Edition: Proven Money-Saving Projects; 3,400 Photos & Illustrations
Editors of Creative Homeowner
Hardcover
Tree Houses Within Reach: 30 Lofty Cabins, Playhouses, and Getaways You Can Actually Build
Diedricksen, Derek
Paperback
Best-Selling House Plans, Updated & Revised 5th Edition: Over 240 Dream-Home Plans in Full Color
Design America Inc
Paperback
Cozy Cottage & Cabin Designs, Updated 2nd Edition: 200+ Cottages, Cabins, A-Frames, Vacation Homes, Apartment Garages, Sheds & More
Design America Inc
Paperback
This Oak House: A Renovation Story with Interiors to Inspire Your Own Home
Meyers-Shyer, Annie
Hardcover
Budget Luxury: Your Guide to Creating a Beautiful Home Without Breaking the Bank
Sullivan, Clare
Hardcover
Trellises, Planters & Raised Beds for Beginners: 30+ Easy, Unique, and Useful Projects You Can Make with Common Tools and Materials
Editors of Cool Springs Press
Paperback
Interiors: A Home Renovation and Interior Design Book: Curated Spaces from Start to Finish
Lewis, Amber
Hardcover
High Yield, Small Space Organic Gardening: Practical Tips for Growing Your Own Food
Wilhelmi, Christy
Paperback
The Smart Approach to Design: Bathrooms, Revised and Updated 3rd Edition: Complete Design Ideas to Modernize Your Bathroom
Editors of Creative Homeowner
Paperback
Dare to Repair: A Do-It-Herself Guide to Fixing (Almost) Anything in the Home
Sussman, Julie
Glakas-Tenet, Stephanie
Paperback
Stuff Every Adult Should Know: A Pocket-Sized Guide to Grown-Up Know-How, from Taxes to Small Talk
Cohen, Brett
Favreau, Alyssa
Kalb, Alanna
Hardcover
Black & Decker the Complete Guide to Wiring, Updated 9th Edition: Current with 2023-2026 Electrical Codes
Editors of Cool Springs Press
Paperback
The Dorm Room Guide: The Complete Handbook for Preparing, Packing, and Living Well in College
Becker, Lara
Paperback
Knitting Without Tears: Basic Techniques and Easy-To-Follow Directions for Garments to Fit All Sizes
Zimmerman, Elizabeth
Paperback
Ultimate Waterfront Home Plans: 179 Designs Ideal for Personal, Family, Company Retreats
Design America Inc
Paperback
The Complicated Roof - a cut and stack workbook: Companion Guide to "A Roof Cutters Secrets"
Holladay, Will
Paperback
Tiny House Design & Construction Guide: Your Guide to Building a Mortgage Free, Environmentally Sustainable Home
Louche, Dan S.
Paperback
Pretty Good House: A Guide to Creating Better Homes
Kolbert, Daniel
Mottram, Emily
Maines, Michael
Hardcover
Engineering in Plain Sight: An Illustrated Field Guide to the Constructed Environment
Hillhouse, Grady
Hardcover
Van Conversion Bible: The Ultimate Guide to Converting a Campervan
Comley, Dale
Low, Charlie
Hardcover
All New Kitchen Ideas That Work: Solutions for Planning, Remodeling, and Optimizing Your Kitchen's Style and Workflow
Paper, Heather J.
Paperback
Keep the Memories, Lose the Stuff: Declutter, Downsize, and Move Forward with Your Life
Paxton, Matt
Paperback
Storied Style: The Book about You, Your Story, and How to Design Your Home with It
Mitchell, Grace
Hardcover
The Laundry Book: The Definitive Guide to Caring for Your Clothes and Linens
Pozniak, Zach
Pozniak, Jerry
Hardcover
Building a Sustainable Kitchen: A Practical Guide to Prioritizing the Planet from the Heart of Your Home
Hansen, Naomi
Paperback
Wiring for Beginners: A Complete Step-By-Step Guide To Mastering Electrical Wiring, Blueprint Planning, And Building A Profitable Career As
Murillo, Jack Murillo
Paperback
Black & Decker the Book of Home How-To, Updated 3rd Edition: Complete Photo Guide to Home Repair and Improvement
Editors of Cool Springs Press
Paperback
Homesteading for Health: One Farm Family's Guide to Food, Land, and Self-Sufficiency
Malone, Jill Glasspool
Malone, Robert W.
Hardcover
Essential Off-Grid Survival Projects: 50 Life-Saving Solutions for Shelter, Water, Food, and Safety
Furneaux, Ky
Hardcover
Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Workbook
Althouse, Andrew D.
Turnquist, Carl H.
Bracciano, Alfred F.
Paperback
The E-Myth HVAC Contractor: Why Most HVAC Companies Don't Work and What to Do About It
Gerber, Michael E.
Goodrich, Ken
Hardcover
New Home, New Story: A Comprehensive Workbook To Help You Achieve The Most Successful, Least Stressful Moving Experience.
Planners, Milania
Paperback
A Kid's Guide to Sewing: Learn to Sew with Sophie & Her Friends: 16 Fun Projects You'll Love to Make & Use
Kerr, Sophie
Paperback
Black and Decker the Complete Guide to Plumbing Updated 8th Edition: Completely Updated to Current Codes
Editors of Cool Springs Press
Peterson, Chris
Paperback
Your Space, Made Simple: Interior Design That's Approachable, Affordable, and Sustainable
Magidson, Ariel
Hardcover
Barkitecture: Explore the World of Innovative and Sustainable Pet Architecture
Thomasson, Joshua
Hardcover
The Home Edit Workbook: Prompts, Activities, and Gold Stars to Help You Contain the Chaos
Teplin, Joanna
Shearer, Clea
Paperback
Joyful: The Surprising Power of Ordinary Things to Create Extraordinary Happiness
Fetell Lee, Ingrid
Paperback
Homesteading: Is It The Lifestyle For You?: Is It The Lifestyle For You?: Everything You Need To Know Before You Buy Land
Nickling-Riddle, Aly
Paperback
Essential Knots: Secure Your Gear When Camping, Hiking, Fishing, and Playing Outdoors
Berger, Karen
Paperback
California Coastal: Seaside Living from Sea Ranch to San Diego
Ewald, Chase Reynolds
Hebert, Heather Sandy
Hardcover
Practical Color Combinations: A Resource Book with Over 2500 Sample Color Schemes
Kuno, Naomi
Paperback
The Home Edit: A Guide to Organizing and Realizing Your House Goals
Shearer, Clea
Teplin, Joanna
Paperback
Home EC for Everyone: Practical Life Skills in 118 Projects: Cooking - Sewing - Laundry & Clothing - Domestic Arts - Life Skills
Bowers, Sharon
Bowers, David
Paperback
Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
Althouse, Andrew D.
Turnquist, Carl H.
Bracciano, Alfred F.
Hardcover
Living Off Grid: 50 Steps to Unplug, Become Self-Sufficient, and Build the Homestead of Your Dreams
Mitchell, Ryan
Paperback
Code Check Electrical 9th Edition: An Illustrated Guide to Wiring a Safe House
Walker, Skip
Paperback
A House Needs to Breathe...Or Does It?: An Introduction to Building Science
Bailes, Allison A., III
Paperback
Never Too Small: Vol. 2: Reinventing Small Space Living
Beath, Joel
Van Vuuren, Camilla Janse
Hardcover
Dr. Chase's Third, Last and Complete Receipt Book and Household Physician: Or, Practical Knowledge for the People
Chase, Alvin Wood
Paperback
Code Check Building 5th Edition: An Illustrated Guide to the Building Codes
Hansen, Douglas
Paperback
The Beginner's Guide to Cheese Making: Easy Recipes and Lessons to Make Your Own Handcrafted Cheeses
Santogade, Elena R.
Paperback
Upholstery School: Practical Projects for Updating Furniture and Furnishings in Your Home
Nooranvary, Sonnaz
Hardcover
The New Design Rules: How to Decorate and Renovate, from Start to Finish: An Interior Design Book
Cumberbatch Anderson, Jessica
Henderson, Emily
Hardcover
Small-Scale Homesteading: A Sustainable Guide to Gardening, Keeping Chickens, Maple Sugaring, Preserving the Harvest, and More
Bruhn, Michelle
Thurow, Stephanie
Paperback
Code Check Plumbing & Mechanical 6th Edition: An Illustrated Guide to the Plumbing & Mechanical Codes
Hansen, Douglas
Paperback
The Backyard Homestead Seasonal Planner: What to Do & When to Do It in the Garden, Orchard, Barn, Pasture & Equipment Shed
Hansen, Ann Larkin
Paperback
Crochet Patterns: Creating Beautiful Dolls: A Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Cute and Unique Crochet Dolls.
Crochet, Tokki
Paperback
The Home Edit Life: The No-Guilt Guide to Owning What You Want and Organizing Everything
Shearer, Clea
Teplin, Joanna
Hardcover
Black and Decker Deck Codes and Standards 2nd Edition: How to Design, Build, Inspect, and Maintain a Safer Deck
Barker, Bruce
Paperback
Welding for Beginners: Learn Everything You Need to Know to Weld, Cut, and Shape Metal in Your Home Studio
Christena, Stephen Blake
Paperback
The Rocket Mass Heater Builder's Guide: Complete Step-By-Step Construction, Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Wisner, Erica
Wisner, Ernie
Paperback
Code Check Electrical 10th Edition: An Illustrated Guide to Wiring a Safe House
Mathewson, Glenn
Hansen, Douglas
Kardon, Redwood
Paperback
Code Check Complete 3rd Edition: An Illustrated Guide to the Building, Plumbing, Mechanical, and Electrical Codes
Hansen, Douglas
Hardcover