Canada primarily uses the Celsius scale for temperature measurement, aligning with the metric system adopted nationwide.
Canada officially uses the Celsius (°C) scale for temperature measurement in weather forecasts, scientific applications, and daily life. However, some industries and older generations may still reference Fahrenheit (°F) due to historical ties with the U.S. and the UK.
Canada’s Official Temperature Scale: Celsius
Since the 1970s, Canada has fully adopted the metric system, including Celsius for temperature measurements. This change was part of a nationwide metrication process that standardized measurements across all sectors.
Key Milestones in Canada’s Metric Conversion
- 1970: Metrication process begins in Canada
- 1972: Provinces agree to make all road signs metric
- 1977: Speed limits change from mph to km/h
- 1979: Gasoline pumps switch from imperial gallons to litres
Where You’ll See Celsius in Canada
Celsius is used consistently across these areas:
Weather Reports
All meteorological data and forecasts use Celsius. For example, a typical summer day might be 25°C while winter temperatures often drop below 0°C.
Home Appliances
Ovens, thermostats, and oil-filled radiators display temperatures in Celsius. The standard room temperature setting is typically 21°C.
Medical Settings
Hospitals and clinics measure body temperature in Celsius, with 37°C being normal body temperature.
Exceptions Where Fahrenheit Persists
Despite the official metrication, Fahrenheit still appears in some contexts:
Older Appliances
Some vintage ovens or thermostats may only display Fahrenheit, particularly those manufactured before the 1980s.
Specialized Industries
Certain industrial processes and manufacturing sectors that work closely with U.S. partners might use Fahrenheit for compatibility.
Informal Conversations
Some Canadians, especially near the U.S. border or older generations, might occasionally use Fahrenheit in casual conversation about weather.
Comparing Canada to Other Countries
| Country | Primary Temperature Scale |
|---|---|
| Canada | Celsius (°C) |
| United States | Fahrenheit (°F) |
| United Kingdom | Celsius (°C) |
| Australia | Celsius (°C) |
Only 14 countries worldwide still primarily use Fahrenheit, as noted in this World Atlas article.
Practical Temperature Conversions
When dealing with appliances or information from the U.S., these conversions help:
- 0°C = 32°F (freezing point of water)
- 20°C = 68°F (room temperature)
- 100°C = 212°F (boiling point of water)
Quick Conversion Formula
°F = (°C × 9/5) + 32
°C = (°F – 32) × 5/9
Impact on Heating Systems in Canada
Understanding temperature scales is crucial when selecting and operating heating equipment. For instance, when choosing between oil-filled radiators vs electric heaters, Canadians need to consider that thermostat settings will be in Celsius.
According to Natural Resources Canada, the recommended winter thermostat setting is 20°C when awake and 17°C when sleeping.
Why Canada Chose Celsius Over Fahrenheit
The switch to Celsius was part of a broader international movement toward the metric system. Key reasons included:
- Alignment with scientific communities worldwide
- Simplification of trade with metric-using countries
- Consistency with other metric measurements
- Easier temperature calculations (water freezes at 0°C and boils at 100°C)
Temperature Measurement in Canadian Schools
All Canadian schools teach temperature measurement exclusively in Celsius. Science classes use Celsius for experiments, and math problems involve Celsius calculations. This education ensures future generations maintain Canada’s metric standards.
Temperature Standards for Canadian Products
Canadian consumer products must display temperatures in Celsius by law. This includes:
- Food storage guidelines
- Appliance settings
- Medical devices
- Industrial equipment
The only exception is products specifically manufactured for export to Fahrenheit-using countries.
