What Temperature Should You Keep Your House

Let's talk temperature. That thermostat on your wall? It's a battleground. A constant source of debate. Forget world peace, household temperature is the real unsolvable problem.

Seriously, what is the "right" temperature? Is there even such a thing? Or is it all just a matter of personal preference, amplified by years of passive-aggressive thermostat wars?

The Official Line: "Energy Efficiency"

They tell you to set it to 78°F (26°C) in the summer. And 68°F (20°C) in the winter. They say it's good for the environment. They say it's good for your wallet. They say a lot of things.

But who are "they," anyway? Are "they" comfortable? Are "they" living in my house, paying my electric bill, and shivering under a mountain of blankets in July? I think not!

My Unpopular Opinion (Brace Yourselves)

Here it comes. My truth. My confession. My thermostat setting that will probably make you gasp. I like it COLD.

Like, borderline arctic.

Think penguins chilling on an iceberg. That's the vibe I'm going for.

I'm talking 70°F (21°C) in the summer. And 65°F (18°C) in the winter. Yes, even in the winter. Fight me.

Okay, maybe not literally fight me. But I know some of you are judging. And that's okay. I'm used to it. My family stages regular interventions. My friends bring me extra sweaters when they visit.

The Benefits (According to Me)

Why do I do it? Let me tell you.

First, I sleep better. A cool room is a sleep sanctuary. Warm rooms are for tossing and turning and waking up in a sweaty panic. No thanks.

Second, I like wearing layers. Sweaters, hoodies, fuzzy socks...they're cozy! They're stylish! They're an excuse to buy more clothes!

Third, it forces everyone to be active. You wanna be warm? Get up and do something! Clean the house! Bake cookies! Do jumping jacks! (Okay, maybe not jumping jacks. But you get the idea.)

The Drawbacks (I Admit There Are a Few)

Okay, fine. There are a couple of downsides.

My energy bill is probably higher than it should be. (But I'm okay with that. Sort of.)

My guests sometimes look at me like I'm crazy. (But I provide blankets! I'm a good host!)

And occasionally, I wake up with a slightly frozen nose. (But that's just invigorating!)

The Real Secret: Compromise (Maybe)

Look, I'm not saying everyone should live in an icebox. What I am saying is that the "official" recommended temperatures are just guidelines. They're not laws.

Find what works for you. If you're sharing a house, learn to compromise. Maybe set different temperatures for different rooms. Invest in a good programmable thermostat.

And most importantly, remember that the ideal temperature is the one that makes you happy. Even if that temperature is slightly...eccentric. Like mine.

So, the next time you're reaching for the thermostat, ask yourself: Am I truly comfortable? Or am I just conforming to societal expectations? And then, crank it down a few degrees. Just for me. (Kidding! Mostly.)

Seriously though, maybe try 72°F (22°C). You might like it. You might not. But you'll never know until you try. And if you hate it, you can always put on a sweater. 😉