🌡️ What Do You Keep Your Thermostat Set At? Everyone Seems to Have a Different Answer!
Ask a group of people what temperature they keep their thermostat set at, and you’re almost guaranteed to start a lively conversation. Some people are perfectly comfortable at 68°F (20°C), while others won’t settle for anything below 74°F (23°C). Then there are those who adjust the thermostat throughout the day to balance comfort and energy savings.
So, what temperature is “right”? The truth is, there isn’t one perfect setting for everyone.
🏡 Why Thermostat Settings Matter
Your thermostat affects more than just comfort. It can also influence:
- Your monthly energy bill
- Indoor humidity
- Sleep quality
- Heating and cooling system efficiency
- Overall household comfort
Finding the right balance can help you stay comfortable without using more energy than necessary.
❄️ Winter Settings
During colder months, many energy experts suggest keeping your thermostat around 68°F (20°C) while you’re awake and at home.
Lowering the temperature a few degrees while you’re sleeping or away from home may help reduce energy use without sacrificing comfort.
Many people prefer:
- 66–68°F (19–20°C) for sleeping
- 68–70°F (20–21°C) during the day
- Slightly warmer settings for babies, older adults, or anyone sensitive to the cold
☀️ Summer Settings
In warmer weather, many recommendations suggest setting the thermostat around 78°F (26°C) when you’re home and using fans to help circulate cool air.
If you’re away from home for several hours, raising the temperature a few degrees may help save energy.
Many households choose temperatures between:
- 72–75°F (22–24°C) for extra comfort
- 76–78°F (24–26°C) for greater energy savings
The ideal setting depends on your local climate, humidity, and personal preference.
💰 Can Changing the Temperature Save Money?
Even small adjustments can make a difference over time.
For example:
- Lowering your heating temperature slightly during winter may reduce heating costs.
- Raising your cooling temperature slightly during summer can decrease air conditioning use.
A programmable or smart thermostat can make these adjustments automatically based on your daily schedule.
😴 The Best Temperature for Sleeping
Many sleep experts suggest that a slightly cooler bedroom may promote better sleep for many adults.
A room that’s too hot or too cold can make it harder to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night.
Comfort, however, varies from person to person.
👨👩👧 Every Family Is Different
Several factors influence what feels comfortable:
- Age
- Health conditions
- Home insulation
- Local climate
- Humidity levels
- Number of people in the home
- Personal preference
A well-insulated house may stay comfortable at a lower or higher thermostat setting than an older home with drafts.
🌿 Tips for Staying Comfortable
You can often stay comfortable without constantly adjusting the thermostat by:
- Using ceiling or portable fans
- Wearing season-appropriate clothing indoors
- Closing curtains during hot afternoons
- Opening blinds on sunny winter days
- Sealing drafts around doors and windows
- Replacing HVAC filters regularly
These simple habits can improve comfort while helping your heating and cooling system work more efficiently.
There Isn’t One “Perfect” Temperature
The best thermostat setting is the one that keeps your household comfortable while fitting your energy goals and budget.
Some families prefer cooler rooms all year long, while others enjoy a warmer home. As long as everyone is comfortable and your heating or cooling system is operating efficiently, there’s no universal “correct” number.
💬 Join the Conversation!
Now it’s your turn!
What temperature do you keep your thermostat set at?
- ❄️ Below 68°F (20°C)
- 🌡️ 68–70°F (20–21°C)
- ☀️ 71–74°F (22–23°C)
- 🔥 75°F (24°C) or higher
Tell us your favorite thermostat setting—and let us know if the people in your house agree, or if there’s an ongoing “thermostat battle!”
