Best Temperature To Keep House In Winter

Finding the ideal temperature for your home during the winter months is a delicate balancing act. You want to be comfortable, but you also want to minimize your energy bills. It's a decision that depends on various factors, including your personal preferences, your home's insulation, and even the local climate. This guide will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about the best temperature to keep your house in winter.

The Recommended Range: 68-72°F (20-22°C)

Energy experts generally recommend setting your thermostat to 68°F (20°C) while you're awake and active. This temperature is considered a good balance between comfort and energy efficiency. If you find 68°F too cool, you can increase it slightly, but try to stay within the 68-72°F (20-22°C) range.

Staying within this range offers several advantages:

Energy Savings: For every degree you lower your thermostat, you can save 1% on your heating bill.
Comfort: This range is generally comfortable for most people.
Health: Maintaining a consistent temperature helps prevent drafts and keeps your home at a healthy humidity level.

Lowering the Temperature While Away or Asleep

One of the easiest ways to save money on your heating bill is to lower the thermostat when you're away from home or asleep. Your body temperature naturally drops while you sleep, so you won't need as much heat.

When You're Away: If you're going to be away from home for several hours, lower the thermostat by 7-10 degrees Fahrenheit (4-5.5 degrees Celsius). This can result in significant energy savings over time. Think of it this way: your house is like a car; when you're not using it, you turn off the engine to save gas (energy). Similarly, lowering the thermostat when you're away saves energy.

While You're Asleep: Similarly, lower the thermostat by 7-10 degrees Fahrenheit (4-5.5 degrees Celsius) while you're asleep. This won't significantly affect your comfort, especially if you use blankets and warm pajamas. Many programmable thermostats offer sleep settings making this change automatically.

How Much Can You Save? The US Department of Energy estimates that you can save as much as 10% a year on your heating bill by simply turning your thermostat back 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day.

Factors Affecting Your Ideal Temperature

The ideal temperature for your home is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Several factors can influence what temperature is best for you.

1. Insulation

Proper insulation is crucial for maintaining a comfortable temperature and reducing energy consumption. A well-insulated home will retain heat more effectively, meaning you won't have to crank up the thermostat to stay warm.

Signs of poor insulation:

Drafts near windows and doors
Uneven temperatures throughout the house
High energy bills

If your home is poorly insulated, consider adding insulation to your attic, walls, and crawl spaces. This investment will pay off in the long run with lower energy bills and a more comfortable home.

2. Personal Preferences

Ultimately, the best temperature is the one that you find most comfortable. Some people prefer a warmer home, while others prefer a cooler one. Listen to your body and adjust the thermostat accordingly. If you are often cold, wearing warm layers and using blankets can allow you to keep your thermostat at a lower, more energy-efficient setting.

3. Health Considerations

Certain health conditions can make you more sensitive to temperature changes. For example, elderly people and infants may need a slightly warmer environment. If you have any health concerns, consult with your doctor about the best temperature for your home.

4. Climate

The climate in your region will also affect the ideal temperature for your home. If you live in a mild climate, you may be able to keep your thermostat at a lower setting than someone who lives in a colder climate. Consider the average temperatures in your area when setting your thermostat.

5. Type of Heating System

The type of heating system you have can also impact the efficiency and effectiveness of different temperature settings. For example, heat pumps work most efficiently when the temperature is kept relatively consistent. Large temperature swings can reduce their efficiency.

6. Activity Level

Your activity level also affects your comfort level. If you are sitting and reading, you might want a warmer room than if you are doing housework. This is why adjusting the temperature based on whether you're actively moving around versus relaxing is important.

Tips for Maximizing Energy Efficiency in Winter

Beyond setting the right temperature, there are several other things you can do to maximize energy efficiency in your home during the winter months:

Seal Drafts: Use caulk and weather stripping to seal any cracks or gaps around windows and doors. This prevents cold air from entering your home and warm air from escaping.
Use Programmable Thermostat: A programmable thermostat allows you to automatically adjust the temperature throughout the day, so you're not wasting energy heating an empty house.
Reverse Ceiling Fans: Most ceiling fans have a switch that allows you to reverse the direction of the blades. In the winter, set the fan to rotate clockwise to push warm air down from the ceiling.
Open Curtains During the Day: Let the sun's natural warmth into your home during the day. Close the curtains at night to trap the heat.
Maintain Your Furnace: Schedule regular maintenance for your furnace to ensure it's running efficiently. A clean furnace will operate more effectively and last longer.
Consider a Smart Thermostat: Smart thermostats learn your heating and cooling patterns and automatically adjust the temperature to maximize energy savings and comfort. They can also be controlled remotely via smartphone.
Insulate Hot Water Pipes: Insulating your hot water pipes can reduce heat loss and save energy.
Use Space Heaters Wisely: If you only need to heat a small area, consider using a space heater instead of turning up the thermostat for the entire house. Be sure to follow all safety precautions when using space heaters.
Dress Appropriately: Wear warm clothing, such as sweaters and socks, to stay comfortable at a lower thermostat setting.

What About Humidity?

Maintaining the correct humidity level is also important during the winter. Dry air can cause discomfort, such as dry skin, chapped lips, and irritated sinuses. Ideally, your home's humidity should be between 30% and 50%. Using a humidifier can help increase the humidity level in your home if it's too dry. Too much humidity, however, can lead to mold and mildew growth. A dehumidifier can remove excess moisture from the air. A hygrometer can help you monitor the humidity level in your home.

Debunking Common Myths

There are several common myths about heating your home in the winter. Here are a few to keep in mind:

Myth: Turning up the thermostat higher will heat your house faster. Fact: Your furnace only produces heat at a certain rate. Turning up the thermostat higher will simply make it run longer.
Myth: It's better to leave the thermostat at a constant temperature than to adjust it throughout the day. Fact: Lowering the thermostat when you're away or asleep can save you money.
Myth: Closing vents in unused rooms will save energy. Fact: This can actually put a strain on your heating system and make it less efficient.

Conclusion

Choosing the best temperature to keep your house in winter is a personal decision that depends on several factors. However, by following the recommendations in this guide, you can find a balance between comfort and energy efficiency. Remember to consider your personal preferences, your home's insulation, and the local climate. By implementing energy-saving strategies, you can stay warm and comfortable all winter long without breaking the bank. Regularly monitor your energy bills and adjust your settings as needed to find the perfect balance for your home and lifestyle. Don't be afraid to experiment within the recommended range to find what works best for you.