What Temperature To Leave House In Winter

Winter is coming! Or, if you're reading this, it's probably already here. That means swapping out your sandals for socks and facing the eternal question: What temperature do I leave my house at when I’m gone?

The Great Thermostat Debate

It's a question that has divided families, ignited office feuds, and even strained international relations (okay, maybe not that last one). But seriously, everyone has an opinion.

Do you crank it up to a balmy 72°F so your pipes don't stage a rebellion? Or do you embrace the chill, becoming one with the polar bears and saving a few bucks in the process?

The Case for the Cozy Cave (High Temperature)

Some people swear by the "never let it drop below 70°F" rule. They imagine their homes shivering, the poor walls feeling the cold, and heaven forbid, the pipes contemplating an icy strike.

Grandma Ethel, bless her heart, probably told you this. And you wouldn’t want to disappoint Grandma Ethel, would you?

The reasoning is simple: keeping the temperature higher prevents frozen pipes, especially if you live in a place where the weather dips below freezing for extended periods.

It also ensures that when you return home, you're greeted by a warm, welcoming hug from your house, not a chilly stare.

The Case for the Arctic Outpost (Low Temperature)

Then there are the energy-saving champions, the frugal fighters for a greener planet. They're the ones who set their thermostats to a daring 55°F and proudly boast about their lower energy bills.

They envision themselves as eco-warriors, battling the forces of excessive energy consumption. They see dollar signs swimming in their bank accounts and a slightly smug smile creeps across their face.

Think of it as winter camping... but indoors. With a roof and Netflix.

The Goldilocks Zone: Finding Your Perfect Temperature

So, what’s the magic number? What's that perfect temperature to leave the house in winter?

The experts (those serious-looking folks in white coats) generally recommend setting your thermostat to around 55°F (13°C) when you're away from home for an extended period.

This seems to be the sweet spot where you balance energy savings with the risk of frozen pipes. It's not too hot, not too cold, but just right. Like Goldilocks' porridge, but for your house.

Beyond the Thermostat: Winter Home Prep Tips

Okay, so you’ve decided on a temperature. But hold on there, partner! There's more to winterizing your home than just fiddling with the thermostat.

Think of it as preparing your house for a winter Olympics of sorts. It needs to be in top shape to endure the cold and emerge victorious in the spring.

Insulation: The House's Winter Coat

Insulation is like a cozy winter coat for your house. It helps keep the warm air in and the cold air out, preventing drafts and reducing energy waste.

Check your attic, walls, and crawl spaces for adequate insulation. If you can see the floor joists in your attic, chances are you need more insulation. Think of all the cozy sweaters you could buy with the money you save!

Seal the Deal: Caulking and Weather Stripping

Gaps and cracks around windows and doors are like little escape routes for your precious warm air. Seal them up with caulk and weather stripping to prevent drafts and keep the cold at bay.

It’s like giving your house a big, warm hug, sealing in all the goodness. Plus, you'll be preventing those annoying whistling sounds when the wind howls.

Pipe Dreams (the Good Kind): Protecting Your Plumbing

Frozen pipes are a homeowner's worst nightmare. They can burst, causing extensive water damage and a whole lot of headaches.

Insulate exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements and crawl spaces. You can use foam pipe sleeves, which are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. Think of them as little sleeping bags for your pipes.

Consider letting faucets drip slightly during extremely cold weather. The constant movement of water can help prevent freezing. Just a trickle will do; you don’t need to recreate Niagara Falls in your bathroom.

Don't Forget the Furry Friends!

If you have pets, remember to factor them into your temperature decisions. While 55°F might be fine for your pipes, it might be a bit chilly for Fluffy the cat or Fido the dog.

Consider leaving them with a trusted friend or relative, or investing in a pet-safe heating pad or blanket. A happy pet makes for a happy home, even when you're away.

The Unexpected Perks of a Slightly Chilly House

Okay, so maybe the thought of a slightly cooler house doesn't exactly fill you with glee. But hear me out! There are some unexpected perks to embracing the chill.

The Snuggle Factor

Think about it: a slightly cooler house is the perfect excuse to snuggle up under a warm blanket with a good book. Or maybe binge-watch your favorite show (we won't judge!).

It's all about creating a cozy atmosphere. Think hot cocoa, crackling fireplaces (or realistic fireplace videos on YouTube), and the warm embrace of a fuzzy blanket.

Lower Energy Bills, Happier Wallet

Let's face it: saving money is always a good thing. By lowering your thermostat, even by a few degrees, you can significantly reduce your energy bills. That's extra money for holiday gifts, a weekend getaway, or that fancy new gadget you've been eyeing.

Treat yourself! You deserve it after conquering the thermostat battle.

A Healthier Home

Believe it or not, a slightly cooler house can actually be healthier. Lower temperatures can help reduce the growth of mold and mildew, which can trigger allergies and respiratory problems.

Plus, sleeping in a cooler room has been linked to better sleep quality. So, you might wake up feeling more refreshed and ready to tackle the day.

The Bottom Line: It's All About Balance

Ultimately, the best temperature to leave your house at in winter is a matter of personal preference and individual circumstances.

Consider your budget, your comfort level, and the specific needs of your home and family. Experiment with different temperatures to find what works best for you.

Don't be afraid to adjust your thermostat based on the weather forecast. If a blizzard is headed your way, you might want to bump up the temperature a few degrees for added protection. Remember: flexibility is key!

And most importantly, don't let the thermostat debate ruin your winter. Embrace the season, stay warm (or cool, depending on your preference), and enjoy the cozy comforts of home.

Now go forth and conquer the cold! Just remember to check on Grandma Ethel and make sure she's bundled up nice and warm.