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Comfort or Efficiency? What Temperature Should Your House Be in the Winter?

For a lot of people, the winter months can bring cold air both outside and in. Setting the thermostat can become a battle between those who want warmth and those who are looking to be energy efficient (or, let’s be honest, those who want to save some money).

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But there is a range of temperatures that can make everyone in the house happy.

Cold Climate Considerations

When winter sets in, and temperatures plummet, maintaining a comfortable indoor environment becomes essential. If you live in a cold climate, the recommended indoor temperature during winter is typically between 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. This range strikes a balance between comfort and energy efficiency.

Comfort and Health

Maintaining a temperature of 68 to 72 degrees ensures a comfortable living space without excessive heating costs. This range is generally comfortable for most people, allowing you to perform daily activities without feeling cold.

Energy Efficiency

Heating accounts for a significant portion of energy consumption in cold climates. By keeping your thermostat within the 68- to 72-degree range, you can manage heating costs more effectively. Every degree above this range can increase your heating bill by approximately 3%, which adds up over a long winter.

For those seeking further efficiency, consider setting the temperature slightly lower (around 65 degrees) at times while you’re sleeping or away from home, and using a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule.

Preventing Damage

Maintaining adequate indoor temperatures also prevents damage to your home. Extremely low indoor temperatures can cause pipes to freeze and burst, leading to costly repairs. By keeping the temperature at a safe level, you ensure that your plumbing and other infrastructure remain intact during the harsh winter months.

Warm or Temperate Climate Considerations

In warmer or more temperate climates, the approach to winter heating differs significantly. While heating is still necessary during the cooler months, the required indoor temperature is often lower than in colder climates. For these regions, an indoor temperature of 67 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit is generally recommended.

Energy Conservation

In temperate climates, winters are milder, and thus, the need for extensive heating is reduced. Keeping the indoor temperature at 67 to 70 degrees balances comfort with energy conservation. This range minimizes heating costs while still providing a cozy environment. Additionally, since the outdoor temperatures are not as extreme, the heat loss from your home is lower, making it easier to maintain this temperature range without excessive energy use.

Adapting to Milder Winters

Residents in warmer climates are often more accustomed to higher temperatures year-round. As a result, they might find a slightly cooler indoor temperature that is more comfortable compared to those in colder climates. A thermostat setting of 67 to 70 degrees can feel pleasantly warm for individuals used to milder winters, without the need for heavy winter clothing indoors.

Humidity Control

In warmer climates, maintaining indoor humidity levels is crucial during winter. Heating can cause indoor air to become dry, leading to discomfort and potential health issues such as dry skin and respiratory problems. Using a humidifier alongside your heating system can help maintain a balanced indoor environment, ensuring both temperature and humidity levels are optimal for comfort and health.

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Tips for Winter Heating

Regardless of your climate, there are several strategies you can employ to optimize your home’s heating efficiency during winter:

Insulation

Be sure your home is well-insulated to prevent heat loss. Proper insulation in walls, attics, and floors keeps warm air in and cold air out, reducing the need for excessive heating.

Weatherstripping

Seal any gaps around windows and doors with weatherstripping to prevent drafts. This simple step can dramatically improve your home’s ability to retain heat.

Curtains and Blinds

Use heavy curtains or thermal blinds to put an extra layer of insulation between you and the outside environment. Open them during sunny days to let natural warmth in, and close them at night to keep the heat inside.

Regular Maintenance

Keep your heating system well-maintained to allow it to operate efficiently. Regularly change filters and schedule annual inspections to keep your system running smoothly.

Find Your Home Temperature Sweet Spot

Before the winter months arrive, make sure your home is ready for that cold air outside. And by staying in the suggested temperature range, you can stay warm while also limiting the heating bill.

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