Winter is here and homeowners are grappling with their home temperatures. What is the ideal ambient temperature to set your thermostat to?
The answer varies based on factors such as family preferences, season, and location. In Washington State, for example, the weather is mild. It generally does not get too hot in the summer or too cold in the winter.
Some homeowners like to sleep with cold air flowing. Others are always cold and tend to turn up the heat.
Read on to learn what the best ambient temperature is for your home. Explore relevant topics such as energy-saving tactics and a comfortable sleeping temperature.
What Is the Best Ambient Temperature in Summer?
Summer brings the heat and makes many people feel uncomfortable. Few people like to wake up in the middle of the night drenched in sweat. There are only so many clothes you can remove to cool off.
In the summer, you should set your thermostat to no higher than 78 degrees Fahrenheit. For many, this is not cool enough, and they will lower it by a few more degrees.
Each degree lower results in greater energy usage. Your air conditioner unit works harder to maintain a lower temperature. This is ultimately reflected in a higher monthly utility bill.
At night, you may need to lower the temperature even further. Many people cannot sleep comfortably if the air is not flowing or if it is too hot.
Energy-saving tips for the summer include opening windows when possible. Also, make sure to use ceiling fans to circulate cool air. These tactics can relieve the burden on your air conditioner and make it last longer.
What Is the Best Temperature Setting in the Winter?
Winter brings a new set of challenges. You do not want the temperature so low that you are freezing cold. At the same time, a higher temperature setting will use a lot of energy and drive up your utility bill.
While awake, the best winter temperature setting is 68 degrees Fahrenheit. It is a little easier to regulate your body temperature in the winter.
If 68 degrees is too cold, you can add a warm sweater or blanket. More layers help you reach your personal comfort level.
What Are Some Other Factors?
The temperature settings described above are for normal conditions. You are home, awake, and most aware of the temperature.
When the family leaves for work or school, it is a good time for energy- savings. In the summer, raise the temperature by 5 to 10 degrees. You can do the opposite in the winter.
Sleep settings are another time for variability. Winterized homes also allow an opportunity for energy savings. Proper home insulation can make it easier for your HVAC to reach the desired temperature.
Your Guide to Home Temperature Settings
You now have a good baseline for home temperature settings. Each family is different, and you may elect to increase or decrease by a few degrees. It is important to remember that temperature monitoring can extend the life of your HVAC unit.
For nearly 40 years, MetFab Heating has been helping customers feel comfortable in their homes. If you want to learn more about optimizing ambient temperature in your home, contact us at MetFab Heating to speak with the experts.