Ideal temperature in the house during cold weather

November 8th, 2022

Winter is upon us and so is the cold. We all want to feel comfortable in our homes during this cold period, but is there an ideal temperature? How to maintain thermal comfort without blowing up your electricity bill? The following article will attempt to shed some light on this by giving you some tips on how to get through the winter in a comfortable manner.

What is a comfortable temperature?

How do we define the feeling of comfort? In general, we feel comfortable when the ambient conditions allow us to maintain a normal internal temperature. In other words, the ideal temperature is when we do not feel too hot or too cold. Other factors also come into play when we talk about comfort. The relative humidity level, for example, plays a determining role in the well-being and health of the occupants and in maintaining a healthy environment. The presence of drafts in a house can also greatly reduce our comfort in cold weather.

The ideal temperature

Usually, a temperature between 20°C and 23°C guarantees comfort. Obviously, the feeling of comfort is personal to each person and differs from one person to another, but it is in this zone that people generally feel comfortable. It is also recommended that a constant temperature be maintained in all rooms used. Elderly people can tolerate a higher temperature due to their slower metabolism. . However, beware of people with heart problems. They should not be in a room where the temperature is too low to prevent a rise in blood pressure.

Energy efficiency

It is possible to ensure good thermal comfort without increasing your electricity bill too much in winter. For example, you can lower the temperature by a few degrees at night or when no one is home. By using electronic thermostats, you can manage the heating with more precision. They maintain the desired temperature to within a tenth of a degree. Also pay attention to the insulation of your home. Air leaks also increase your energy bill unnecessarily.

Maintain a good humidity level

During the winter, the air is usually the driest and the relative humidity inside your home should not be below 30%. Air that is too dry can cause discomfort, mucous membrane irritation and even breathing difficulties. A rate between 35% and 50% is ideal to ensure comfort while avoiding the development of mold. Air circulation must also be easy, so remember to have your ducts cleaned to allow your heating system to work efficiently.

Don’t hesitate to call on specialists who can advise you on this point. This will help you have a comfortable winter while keeping your energy costs down.