The recommended thermostat temperature for winter is 68°F (20°C) during the day and lower at night for energy efficiency and comfort.
Finding the ideal thermostat temperature for winter involves balancing comfort, energy efficiency, and cost savings. While recommendations vary, most experts agree that 68°F (20°C) is the sweet spot when you’re awake and at home.
Official Winter Thermostat Recommendations
The U.S. Department of Energy and ENERGY STAR recommend these winter thermostat settings:
| Situation | Recommended Temperature | Potential Savings |
|---|---|---|
| When awake at home | 68°F (20°C) | Baseline for efficiency |
| When asleep or away | 60-62°F (15-17°C) | 1% savings per degree (8+ hours) |
Why 68°F Works Best
This temperature:
- Reduces heat loss through walls and windows
- Maintains comfort without overheating
- Works with most people’s metabolic rates
- Balances humidity levels effectively
Advanced Temperature Strategies
The 1-Degree Weekly Adjustment
Try this gradual approach:
- Start at your normal comfortable temperature
- Lower by 1°F each week
- Stop when you reach 68°F or your comfort limit
This method helps your body adapt while maximizing savings. According to energy.gov, each degree lowered for 8+ hours can save 1% on your bill.
Smart Thermostat Programming
Consider these schedules:
Weekday Schedule
- 6-8 AM: 68°F (waking hours)
- 8 AM-5 PM: 62°F (away at work)
- 5-10 PM: 68°F (evening at home)
- 10 PM-6 AM: 62°F (sleeping hours)
Weekend Schedule
- 7 AM-11 PM: 68°F (active hours)
- 11 PM-7 AM: 62°F (sleeping hours)
Special Considerations
Homes with Vulnerable Residents
For elderly, infants, or those with health conditions:
- Maintain minimum 64°F (18°C) at night
- Consider supplemental heating in frequently used rooms
- Monitor humidity (ideal 30-50%) to prevent dryness
Different Heating Systems
Optimal settings vary by system type:
- Heat pumps: Maintain steady temperatures (avoid big swings)
- Boilers: Can handle more temperature variation
- Electric baseboard: Use zone heating for efficiency
Maximizing Efficiency
Thermostat Placement Tips
Avoid these locations:
- Near windows or exterior doors
- In direct sunlight
- Behind furniture or curtains
- In kitchens or hallways
According to ENERGY STAR, proper placement can improve accuracy by up to 30%.
Complementary Energy Savers
Boost your thermostat’s effectiveness with:
- Programmable or smart thermostat
- Proper insulation (especially attic and basement)
- Weatherstripping around doors/windows
- Regular HVAC maintenance
