You've checked your bags and ensured your home is ready for your winter getaway. But have you thought about the thermostat?
With the chilly weather, many wonder what temperature is best to set while away. It's crucial to avoid letting your home experience extreme temperatures, which can strain your heating system and harm your plants.
No one wants to return to a freezing house or risk burst pipes. Experts have some guidelines to help you find the right balance.
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Setting Your Thermostat While on Winter Vacation
According to Jason Orme, a speaker at various building shows, the ideal setback temperature is typically between 59-60˚F. This helps maintain enough warmth in your home without excessive energy use, making it easier to heat back up to comfortable levels upon your return.
How long you'll be gone and the weather conditions are key factors. While away for an extended period in cold weather, consider programming your heating system to maintain a temperature around 55˚F. It might be tempting to turn everything off, but doing so can lead to frozen pipes, which can be costly and messy to repair.
Glenn Wiseman, a sales manager in home comfort services, notes that for vacations longer than a week, lowering the thermostat can lead to savings. A temperature of 55˚F is generally recommended for colder climates, balancing cost savings with the need to protect your plumbing.
Glenn suggests setting your thermostat about 4˚F lower than your normal winter setting. Checking the forecast can be helpful; if a cold snap is expected, smart thermostats are invaluable for managing your home's heating from afar.
For extreme cold predictions, it's wise to take additional precautions, like turning off your main water valve and draining your faucets. This minimizes the risk of frozen pipes bursting. If you're away for an extended time, you may even be able to set your thermostat to 50˚F safely.
What's the Minimum Safe Temperature for an Empty Home in Winter?
Glenn also advises that under normal occupancy, 68˚F is a comfortable and safe temperature. Maintaining a consistent winter temperature helps prevent dampness, mold, and condensation without significantly impacting energy costs.
For extended absences, he cautions against dropping below 55˚F unless someone can regularly check on your home for plumbing issues. Remember, 55˚F is a solid guideline; only go lower if you have safeguards in place. With the thermostat set correctly, enjoy your vacation knowing your home is safe.
