Optimal Thermostat Settings for Winter: What Temperature Should You Set?
When considering the optimal thermostat settings for winter, it's important to balance energy efficiency with personal comfort. This article explores the recommended temperatures for different scenarios and shares personal experiences from the author.
Introduction to Winter Heating
Winter is the season when many homes require significant heating to maintain comfortable living conditions. The author, reflecting on his experience in South Texas, shared insights on how to handle low temperatures without compromising on energy efficiency or comfort.
Personal Experience in South Texas
In November 2014, the author drove from Missouri to South Texas with his late wife. For seven months, they planned ahead to manage the challenges of the cold season. Key steps included turning off the water, lowering the furnace temperature to the low 50's (Fahrenheit) to prevent freezing, and using timers to simulate occupancy by turning lights and a radio on and off. Additionally, they locked the garage door and provided trusted neighbors with keys in case of emergency.
Current Thermostat Settings
The author currently sets his thermostat to 60°F (15.5°C) when he and his wife go to bed at night. During the day, he sets it to around 64°F (17.8°C), and in extreme cold weather, it can be raised to 70°F (21°C) temporarily. He also utilizes a wood stove to heat the first and second floors, considering the significant ceiling space involved.
Recommended Thermostat Settings
General recommendations often suggest setting your thermostat to around 68°F (20°C) when you are home and awake. When you are asleep or away, you can lower it by about 5-10°F (3-5°C) to save energy. However, the ideal temperature can vary based on personal comfort and energy efficiency goals.
Additional Insights
At 55°F (13°C), you generally don't need to worry about your pipes freezing. Interestingly, some people leave their thermostats at 52°F (11.1°C) and have not experienced pipe freezing issues as long as the heater is functioning.
Real-Life Cold Temperatures
The author has experienced extremely cold temperatures, reaching -32°C with wind chill making it -42°C. Interestingly, even his dog, Sapper, remained relatively unaffected by these temperatures. This highlights the importance of setting the thermostat at a temperature where no one feels like a popsicle.
Thermostat Settings and Comfort
Most people set their thermostats to 20°C (68°F), which is considered the "room temperature" in many places. This temperature aligns with the conditions in which photographic chemistry was designed for film and paper development. However, this temperature might not be suitable for regions with harsh winters, such as Utah, Idaho, or Montana.
Concluding Thoughts
Setting your thermostat at temperatures like 40°F (4.4°C) or "refrigerator weather" ensures that you stay warm without feeling overly cold. The author refers to 40°F as the temperature your refrigerator is kept at, which is a comfortable temperature in regions like central Georgia or California but may not be ideal for colder climates.
Ultimately, the ideal temperature setting for your home during winter depends on your personal preferences and the local climate. By understanding and implementing these recommendations, you can improve both comfort and energy efficiency in your home.