The Ideal Home Temperature: What Experts Recommend Today For years, 19°C (66°F) has been widely quoted as the standard comfortable indoor temperature. Recent research and energy‑efficiency guidelines, however, suggest that the “ideal” setting depends on several factors:
1. Comfort & Health: Most experts now recommend keeping indoor temperatures between 20°C–22°C (68°F–72°F) for general comfort and to support respiratory health, especially during winter.
2. Energy Savings: Lowering the thermostat by just 1°C can cut heating costs by about 5–10%. Experts advise setting the temperature 18°C–20°C when you’re at home and lowering it further (to 15°C–16°C) at night or when the house is empty.
3. Humidity & Ventilation: Maintaining a relative humidity of 40–50% alongside the temperature helps prevent dry air issues. Proper ventilation also influences perceived comfort.
4. Personal Preferences: Age, activity level, and clothing affect individual needs. Older adults or people with health conditions may prefer a warmer environment (21°C–23°C).
5. Seasonal Adjustments: In summer, cooling to 24°C–26°C (75°F–79°F) is often recommended for efficiency and comfort.
Bottom Line The “19°C myth” is being replaced by more nuanced advice: set your thermostat to 20°C–22°C for everyday comfort while employing energy‑saving strategies like programmable timers and layering clothing to stay warm.
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