As winter settles in, the perennial question arises: what temperature should we set our thermostats to in order to stay warm without breaking the bank? For years, the 19°C rule has been a standard recommendation in many countries, suggesting that this temperature strikes the perfect balance between comfort and energy savings. But is it really the magic number we’ve been led to believe? According to experts, the answer is more nuanced than we might think. So, should we bid farewell to the 19°C rule? And if so, what’s the optimal temperature for our homes? Let’s dive in.
Why the 19°C Rule Is Controversial This Winter
The recommendation of 19°C isn’t new. It originated during the 1970s oil crisis, with the goal of reducing national energy consumption. At the time, homes were less energy-efficient, and the heating needs were vastly different from what they are today.
Fast forward to the present, and homes are much better insulated. However, our expectations for comfort have changed. According to energy management expert Nick Barber and heating systems specialist Brad Roberson, “19°C is a theoretical temperature, but it doesn’t always provide the comfort people are looking for.” Both agree that 20°C is the sweet spot—offering the ideal balance between comfort and energy efficiency.
The Comfort vs. Savings Dilemma
So why not stick to 19°C, you ask? The issue is that thermal comfort doesn’t depend solely on the number you see on your thermostat. A few key factors influence how we perceive warmth:
- Insulation: If your walls or windows aren’t well-sealed, even 22°C might feel inadequate.
- Activity levels: Sitting still working or lounging on the couch will make you feel colder compared to moving around or cooking.
- Humidity: An unbalanced humidity level can make a room feel colder than it actually is, even with the right temperature.
Experts agree on one crucial point: comfort is subjective and varies from home to home. Some adjustments might be necessary to find the perfect temperature for your specific living space.
Should Every Room Be Heated the Same Way?
One common mistake people make is trying to maintain a uniform temperature throughout the entire house. In reality, it’s much more efficient to adjust the temperature room by room. Here are some guidelines for creating a comfortable and energy-efficient home:
- Living Room and Common Areas: 20°C is ideal for a cozy, welcoming space.
- Bedroom: A cooler room is better for sleep—aim for 16-18°C to promote restful sleep.
- Bathroom: 22°C will prevent those unpleasant chills after stepping out of the shower.
- Less Used Spaces (Hallways, Entrance): 17°C is perfectly fine.
This tailored approach doesn’t just enhance comfort; it also reduces your home’s overall energy consumption.
Why 20°C Is the Ideal Temperature ?
So why specifically 20°C? According to Brad Roberson, “this temperature strikes a balance between physical comfort and controlled energy use.” Let’s break down why 20°C works so well:
- Energy Efficiency: Each degree above 19°C can increase your energy usage by about 7%. While this still keeps you within a reasonable range, it’s much lower than maintaining 22°C or 23°C.
- Improved Comfort: At 19°C, some people may still feel a slight chill, especially if they’re not moving around much or dressed lightly. At 20°C, that feeling usually disappears.
- Ease of Management: With smart thermostats, it’s easy to maintain 20°C, adjusting for different times of the day or specific rooms that need more warmth.
How to Keep the Right Temperature Without Wasting Energy ?
Now that we know 20°C is often the best compromise, how can you maintain that ideal temperature without inflating your energy bills? Here are some practical and easy-to-implement tips:
- Invest in a Programmable Thermostat: Set up your heating system to automatically adjust based on the time of day and which rooms need heat.
- Improve Insulation: A well-insulated home holds heat better and needs less energy. Start with windows and attic spaces, as these are common areas where heat escapes.
- Use Thick Curtains: At night, thick curtains help keep heat inside and reduce the chill near windows.
- Close Doors: Keeping doors closed between heated and unheated areas can help prevent heat loss.
- Make Use of Solar Gains: Let in natural sunlight during the day to warm up your home for free.
Health Risks of Too-Cold Temperatures
While it’s important to keep your energy bills in check, lowering the temperature too much can pose health risks, especially for vulnerable individuals:
- Respiratory Issues: Cold air can irritate the respiratory system, making people more susceptible to infections.
- Cardiovascular Stress: For those with heart problems, exposure to cold requires the body to work harder to maintain its internal temperature, potentially leading to complications.
- Sleep Disruption: A room that’s too cold can affect your sleep quality, leaving you feeling fatigued the next day.
Maintaining a reasonable temperature in your home isn’t just about saving money—it’s also a crucial step toward safeguarding the health and well-being of everyone inside.
In Conclusion: The Ideal Temperature for a Cozy, Cost-Effective Winter
The 19°C rule has had its time, but 20°C offers a better balance between comfort and energy savings. This doesn’t mean 19°C is bad, but it should be tailored to fit your lifestyle and the specific needs of your home.
With a few simple changes, like investing in a smart thermostat, improving insulation, and adjusting room temperatures, you can stay warm without hurting your wallet. After all, the real luxury is being comfortable in your own home without feeling guilty every time the heat kicks on. So, are you ready to redefine your thermal comfort this winter?
