What Should My Thermostat Be Set On In The Winter
Winter is here. The battle of the thermostat rages on. Are you team "arctic blast" or "tropical getaway?" Let's talk about the great thermostat debate.
The Official, Boring Answer
Experts say 68°F (20°C) is the magic number. Supposedly, it balances comfort and energy savings. But honestly, who wants to be just comfortable? I want to feel like I'm wrapped in a warm hug all day long! This advice feels…clinical. Like getting a prescription for joy.
My (Probably Unpopular) Opinion
Crank it up! I'm talking 72°F, maybe even 74°F. Yes, I said it! Hear me out.
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Life's too short to shiver indoors. We're already battling the cold winds and icy sidewalks outside. Why subject ourselves to a slightly less frigid environment inside our own homes?
Imagine this: You come home from a long, cold day. You kick off your boots, shed your layers, and… BAM! You're greeted by a wave of cozy warmth. Pure bliss, right?
Think of it as a mini-vacation. A mental escape to a sunnier, warmer climate. A place where you can wear shorts and a t-shirt in January (okay, maybe not shorts, but definitely a lighter sweater!).
My spouse often complains, "It's like living in a sauna in here!" But then they promptly curl up on the couch with a blanket and a cup of hot cocoa. I consider that a win.
Besides, who decided that slightly cooler temperatures automatically equal huge energy savings? I'd rather pay a little extra and be happy. It's an investment in my sanity, frankly.
The Blanket Defense
Okay, okay, I know what you're thinking. "Just wear a blanket!" you scream. And to that I say, blankets are great! I love blankets! I own approximately 47 blankets. But a blanket is a supplement to the warmth, not a replacement for it.
A blanket is your trusty sidekick. The high thermostat setting is your superhero, fighting off the winter chill single-handedly. They work best as a team.
The "But What About My Bills?" Argument
Fine, fine, we can talk about money. I concede. Higher temperatures do mean higher bills. But there are ways to mitigate the damage!
First, invest in a programmable thermostat. This allows you to lower the temperature when you're not home or asleep. It's a compromise! We can be slightly responsible adults, sometimes.
Second, seal those drafts! Caulk windows, add weather stripping to doors, and plug up any holes where cold air is sneaking in. It's like putting on a warm coat for your house.
Third, wear layers! Yes, I know I just argued against this, but it's still good advice. Think of your home as a wonderfully heated base camp. You still need to be prepared for the elements, even if the elements are just a slightly cooler room.
The Golden Rule of Thermostats
Ultimately, the perfect thermostat setting is whatever makes you happy. It's your home! You get to decide what temperature you want to live in. Don't let some energy company dictate your comfort levels.
So, go forth and experiment! Find your happy place. Crank up the heat (responsibly, of course). And remember, a little bit of extra warmth can go a long way toward chasing away the winter blues. And maybe, just maybe, keep the peace with your spouse. Although, winning the thermostat war is a pretty satisfying victory in itself.
Maybe Benjamin Franklin (a renowned penny pincher, I hear) would disagree, but I am pretty sure Marie Antoinette would keep the temperature at 74. I'll take my chances with the Queen.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go turn up the thermostat. And maybe put on a Hawaiian shirt. Just because I can.