What To Set Heat To When Away In Winter

So, you're jetting off for a winter escape, trading snow shovels for sandy beaches. Smart move! But before you pack that flamingo-print shirt, there's a little something nagging at the back of your mind: the thermostat. What devilish number do you set that thing to when you're gone? It's a question that's sparked more family debates than whether pineapple belongs on pizza (it doesn’t, obviously).

For years, I followed my grandfather's mantra: "If it ain't movin', freeze it!" He swore by turning the heat completely off. His logic? Saving a buck. His reality? Returning to a house colder than a polar bear's pedicure. I remember one year, the poor man had to use a hairdryer to thaw his plumbing. A hairdryer! On pipes! It was like watching a comedy sketch, only with the very real threat of burst pipes hanging over our heads. Let's just say, Grandpappy's "savings" ended up costing a whole lot more in the long run.

Then there's Aunt Mildred. Bless her heart, she's convinced her house is a delicate flower, perpetually wilting unless kept at a balmy 75 degrees. Even when she's on vacation! The poor mailman probably thinks he's accidentally stumbled into a greenhouse every time he delivers her flyers. I once visited her in February and had to peel off layers like an onion – inside! I swear, I saw a tomato ripening on her windowsill. The house was practically begging for a popsicle. So, maybe Aunt Mildred's strategy is a bit much too.

The Goldilocks number? Well, most experts (the ones who haven’t been driven mad by extreme thermostat settings) suggest around 55 degrees Fahrenheit (about 13 degrees Celsius). It's a sweet spot. Warm enough to prevent frozen pipes and keep your houseplants from staging a dramatic revolt, but cool enough to give your wallet a break. Think of it as a winter nap for your house. A nice, comfortable, financially responsible nap.

Of course, technology has thrown a wrench into the whole "set-it-and-forget-it" scenario. We now have smart thermostats that can be controlled from our phones! Suddenly, you're not just a homeowner, you're a remote-control temperature maestro. You can peek at the indoor temperature from a tropical paradise and make tiny adjustments with a flick of your thumb. It's like having a superpower! Though, I admit, there's a certain thrill in imagining myself as a thermostat-controlling superhero, battling the forces of Frozen Pipes and Exorbitant Heating Bills. My superhero name? Thermoman!

But even with all the fancy gadgets, the real key is preparation. Before you leave, make sure to do a little winterizing. Insulate exposed pipes (especially those near exterior walls), seal any drafty windows and doors, and maybe even ask a neighbor to check on things every few days. A friendly face popping in can make a world of difference, not only for security but also for peace of mind.

Think of it this way: preparing your house for winter is like tucking your kids into bed. You make sure they're warm, comfortable, and safe before you turn out the lights. Your house deserves the same care and attention. After all, it's the place where you hang your hat (and your flamingo-print shirt) at the end of the day.

And remember Grandpappy and Aunt Mildred? Maybe they were onto something, in their own wonderfully eccentric ways. Grandpappy taught me the value of a dollar (even if it meant nearly causing a plumbing disaster). And Aunt Mildred? Well, she taught me that sometimes, a little extra warmth can go a long way – especially when you're dreaming of summer.

So, as you pack your bags and prepare for your winter escape, take a moment to consider your thermostat. Set it to that happy medium, give your house a little TLC, and then relax and enjoy your vacation. You've earned it. And when you return, you'll be greeted by a house that's not too hot, not too cold, but just right. A house that's been waiting patiently for your return, dreaming of warmer days and the sweet, sweet sound of your laughter.

Just, maybe hide the hairdryer from Grandpappy next time.