The Thermistor

The temperature sensor is a precision platinum wire thermistor whose electrical resistance is a function of air temperature. To guarantee accurate readings, it is shielded from direct sunlight and other sources of reflected or radiated heat.

Temperature is measured in degrees Fahrenheit (°F) in the United States. The Fahrenheit scale has a freezing point at 32°F and a boiling point at 212°F.

Outside Temperature

In Ashland, the frost-free growing season averages about 160 days.

The last spring frost typically takes place in early May and the first fall freeze in mid-October.

Unit of measure = °F

Outside Temperature

In Ashland, a record low of -4° F was recorded in 1972.

The record high temperature of 108° F was set in 1981.

Unit of measure = °F

Degree Days

Heating and cooling degree days are measurements of the demand for energy needed to heat or cool a home or business.

By setting your thermostat lower in winter and higher in summer, you can save significant energy and expense.

Humidity

Humidity is measured by an electrical capacitance device sensitive to atmospheric moisture.

Relative humidity is the ratio of the amount of water vapor present in the air to the amount that would be present if the air were saturated (100%). At ground level, 100% relative humidity means dew and/or fog will form if the temperature drops below this point.

Humidity

Ashland’s low humidity levels in the summer help to make you feel relatively comfortable in spite of the high temperatures.

Unit of measure = percent relative humidity

Dew Point

The dew point is the temperature at which condensation of the water vapor in the air will start to occur when the air is cooled, such as what happens overnight in fair weather. The ability of air to hold water vapor decreases as temperature decreases.

The dew point temperature can be calculated from knowing the air temperature and the relative humidity. Dew point is useful in forecasting weather.

Dew Point

People feel most comfortable when the dew point is in the
50 - 59 °F range.

Anything below that will feel dry, while anything above that will feel uncomfortably humid. Dew points higher than 80 °F can be deadly for those with asthma-related illnesses.

Unit of measure = °F

Green Living Tip

In summer, save 5% on your air conditioning bill by setting your thermostat at or above 78°F.

In winter, keep your thermostat at or below 65°F for similar savings.