Every Canadian must know the right thermostat setting to stay comfortable in Canada’s extreme climate while also keeping energy bills under control. Usually, winters here often dip well below freezing point, and summers can climb into the high 20s or 30s, so your home’s heating and cooling system works hard year-round.
There are recommended thermostat settings for both summer and winter that balance comfort with energy savings. These guidelines outline ideal daytime, nighttime, and away-from-home temperatures which we’ll explore in detail below.
When you set your thermostat strategically, you will be able to achieve a good comfort level and cut down energy use by maintaining the right temperature as you need.
In this blog, let’s look at the recommended thermostat settings for both winter and summer in Canada while balancing comfort and savings.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Canadian Winter
During chilly winters, the recommended thermostat setting is around 20°C according to Natural Resources Canada, which balances comfort and energy efficiency. To be precise, you can set it between 20°C and 22°C when you or your family is at home. This is a range that maintains comfort without excess heating demands.
In case your family is away or asleep at night, you can lower the thermostat to 17°C to 19°C to reduce furnace usage without sacrificing too much comfort. Reducing the thermostat by even a few degrees can save noticeable energy over the course of the winter. For example, lowering it by 2°C can reduce heating costs by up to 10%.
Temperature settings in residences will vary depending on activity/comfort levels, budgetary concerns, and energy usage habits. To save money, the technique is to set the temperature at 22°C at the start of winter, then progressively lower it whenever possible. The best choice for your house is usually a balance between comfort and energy consumption. But be sure that the heating is not overworked.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Canadian Summer
Summers in Canada often reach temperatures nearly 30°C, which necessitate the use of air conditioning in many homes. Homes with sun-facing windows typically require more cooling than those with windows that face other directions.
According to Natural Resources Canada, a temperature of 25.5°C is recommended when you are at home and active to balance comfort with energy efficiency. If the temperatures rise, it may be tempting to lower the thermostat, but this will not cool your home faster. In fact, it may cause unnecessary strain on your cooling system.
Thermostat temperature adjustments should be made gradually. If you prefer a cooler environment at night, lower it slightly, like 22°C to 24°C, while sleeping. Keeping your thermostat close to this range can reduce electricity consumption without compromising too much comfort.
Ideal Thermostat Settings for Pets and Babies
In Canada, it is crucial to set the thermostat correctly to experience comfort, safety, and energy efficiency, as winters are extremely cold and summers can be very humid.
For babies, Health Canada and pediatric experts recommend keeping the room temperature between 20°C and 22°C (68°F to 72°F) throughout the year to reduce the risk of overheating and ensure comfort. Instead of heavy blankets, use lightweight sleep blankets or swaddles, which are advised for safe and restful sleep.
Most cats and dogs feel comfortable in the same temperature range as humans, typically 19°C to 21°C (65°F to 72°F). When it comes to summer, pets can stay with an indoor temperature that is below 26°.
Children should be in a room that is consistently at a comfortable temperature, whereas pets can be in a room that is at the same temperature as the adults. Setting the right thermostat is the guarantee of a house that is safe, healthy, and costs less over time.
By following these recommended thermostat settings, you can keep your home comfortable year-round while saving energy and costs.
Choose Smart and Programmable Thermostats
One of the most common problems many Canadians face is manually adjusting the thermostat. If you forget to lower or raise the thermostat, energy goes to waste and causes you higher energy bills. In such cases, making use of a smart and programmable thermostat can solve this problem by managing your home’s temperature automatically based on your schedule.
By learning your routine, these thermostats reduce energy use when the house is empty and ensure comfort when you’re home. They can also be programmed to adjust temperatures gradually, which helps protect your heating and cooling system while lowering utility costs.
Where Should the Thermostat Be Located?
The spot where you place your thermostat plays a prominent role in managing comfort and energy efficiency. To get the most accurate readings and optimal performance, place your thermostat:
- On an interior wall, preferably near the center of your home
- Away from heat sources like lamps and the oven
- Away from direct sunlight
- Away from the front door and windows
- Away from air vents
Factors Impact Your Home’s Heating and Cooling Needs
The precise amount of heating or cooling your house needs depends on a number of factors. Knowing these factors will enable you to choose your heating and cooling needs wisely.
Home Size and Layout: Larger homes with open floor layouts demand more energy to heat and cool than smaller ones.
Insulation Quality: Well-insulated walls, ceilings, and attics help maintain indoor temperatures, thereby decreasing energy consumption.
Windows and Doors: Drafty or single-pane windows can let heat escape in winter and enter in summer.
Climate and Location: Homes in extreme climates need more powerful heating or cooling systems to maintain comfort.
Appliances and Occupants: More people and heat-generating activities, such as cooking, increase HVAC demand.
Enjoy Year-round Comfort with Infiniti Home Comfort
Using the recommended thermostat settings for summer and winter in Canada helps you stay comfortable while saving energy and reducing costs. Properly managing your home’s temperature also ensures your heating and cooling systems operate efficiently throughout the year.
By adjusting your thermostat based on the season, your family including babies and pets can enjoy consistent comfort while keeping energy use under control. Small, strategic changes can make a noticeable difference for both your comfort and your utility bills.
Infiniti Home Comfort can help homeowners maintain their heating and cooling systems so they perform efficiently with your thermostat settings. Our professional team provides expert installation, maintenance, and repair services to ensure your home stays comfortable and energy-efficient in every season.
