Winter in Austin can be unpredictable. One day you’re basking in the sun, the next you’re reaching for an extra layer. But no matter what the weather throws at us, we want our fellow Austinites to be comfortable in their homes. A large piece of that comfort comes down to having the right average house temperature in the winter.

So, What Is The Magic Number? 

While personal preferences vary, most experts recommend setting the average house temperature in winter to a range between 68-72°F, when you’re home and awake. 

When you are away, energy companies and other experts recommend setting your thermostat lower to at least 58°F. While this can seem intense, it will prevent pipes from freezing, and can minimize energy consumption.

Why Is This Range Ideal?

Experts recommend setting your thermostat between 68-72°F when you’re home and awake for a few key reasons:

  • Maintains Comfort: This temperature range is generally considered comfortable for most people, preventing you from feeling too cold or too hot. This helps create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your home.
  • Improves Indoor Air Quality: Maintaining a consistent temperature helps prevent issues like excessive dryness, which can impact your respiratory health and comfort. Proper heating can also prevent mold growth by reducing moisture buildup.
  • Protects Your Home: Consistent heating prevents your home from getting too cold, which can be beneficial for your plumbing. When temperatures drop significantly, pipes can freeze and burst, causing costly damage. 
  • Health Considerations: Maintaining a consistent and comfortable temperature can help support your immune system. Large temperature swings can put stress on your body and make you more susceptible to illness. 

Specific Benefits in Texas: 

Texas winters are now associated with higher risks of safety issues. Setting your average house temperature in winter to 68-72°F is an important safety practice due to the intensity of the weather on Texas houses and residents. Along with the benefits listed above, there are some that specifically help Texas homeowners.

  • Increases Energy Efficiency:  While it might seem counterintuitive, setting your thermostat to a reasonable temperature like 68-72°F can actually improve energy efficiency. This is because your heating system won’t have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature, leading to less energy consumption and lower heating bills. 
  • Extends Lifespan of HVAC System: When your heating system doesn’t have to constantly cycle on and off to maintain extreme temperatures, it experiences less wear and tear. This can help prolong the life of your HVAC system and reduce the need for repairs.

Regardless of these reasons, it’s important to remember that this is just a guideline. The temperature you select can be made based on your personal preference and comfort.

A view of the Austin skyline and a bridge from Lady Bird Lake.

Fine-Tuning Your Ideal Winter Temperature

Since these temperatures are “average”, you have the ability to make adjustments. The safest option is to set your temperature to be close to the recommended range to ensure your house is protected. However, other factors can influence your temperature selection, which include: 

  • Personal Preference: Everyone has their own comfort level, whether it’s for a warmer or cooler environment. Adjusting the temperature by one or two degrees can create a more comfortable environment without creating an extreme temperature imbalance in your home. 
  • Activity Level: If you’re more active indoors, you might prefer a slightly cooler temperature. The reverse is also true for setting a slightly warmer temperature if you prefer more sedentary activities.
  • Age and Health: Older adults and young children often feel colder and may benefit from a warmer setting.
  • Time of Day: As described earlier, when you are away from your home it’s recommended that you lower the temperature of your house to around 58°F. You might also prefer to lower the temperature at night too.

Tips for Maintaining the Perfect Temperature

Here are a few tips to help you maintain the perfect average house temperature in winter and maximize your comfort:

  • Invest in a Programmable Thermostat: Using a programmable thermostat allows you to adjust the temperature throughout the day based on your schedule, further optimizing comfort and energy savings.
  • Utilize Natural Sunlight: If you open your curtains during the day to let the sun in, you can warm your home naturally.
  • Seal Air Leaks: Drafty windows and doors can significantly impact your home’s temperature. Before the winter starts it would be smart to ensure any air leaks are sealed with weatherstripping or caulk.
  • Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance: Ensure your heating system is running efficiently by scheduling regular maintenance with a qualified technician.

TemperaturePro Can Help!

Finding the perfect average house temperature in winter is a balancing act. At TemperaturePro Austin, we can help you optimize your home’s heating system for maximum comfort and energy efficiency. Our experienced technicians can provide expert advice, perform necessary maintenance or replacements, and ensure your system is running smoothly all winter long. 

Contact TemperaturePro Austin today for a free consultation!