Our homes are our sanctuaries, where we seek comfort, relaxation, and refuge from the outside world. However, having a poorly controlled climate and temperature in this sacred space is bound to negatively affect this quality of life.
Maintaining the perfect temperature in your home can do more than bring comfort, but can also significantly influence your quality of life. In this guide, we’ll further explore the importance of home temperature and provide tips on how to improve it so your quality of life is the best possible.
The Impact of Home Temperature on Quality of Life
How does the temperature of a home affect the quality of a person’s life? There are many aspects of one’s life that can be affected by a home that is too cold or too warm, including physical and mental well-being.
Physical Comfort
The first thought that comes to mind when innapropriate house temperature is mentioned is the reduction of physical comfort. When a space is too cold or warm, it can become difficult to find comfort.
You may notice it becoming harder to relax, concentrate, or even find everyday activities enjoyable. Ensuring an optimal temperature in your home can prevent this issue from arising in the first place.
Health and Sleep
Regardless of which end the thermostat swings towards, extreme temperatures can negatively impact your health and sleep quality. In cases where a home is far too cold, occupants may find themselves dealing with respiratory issues and having heightened chances of falling ill.
In contrast, excessive heat over a long period of time can cause dehydration and discomfort. Having your home sit at a comfortable temperature promotes better sleep and supports your immune system, which is crucial for overall health and well-being.
Productivity
If you work or study from home, you may not realise how crucial a role temperature plays in your productivity. Working in an overly warm or cold environment can be distracting and hinder your ability to focus on tasks, leading to unproductive days.
This goes beyond work as well, with poor climate control diverting manys efforts towards daily tasks. For example, an overly hot home makes it harder to find energy or effort towards cleaning or playing.
Mood and Mental Health
While it may be unconscious on your behalf, many people find their mood and mental health impacted when their home is not at an optimal environment.
The temperature in your home can also affect your mood and mental health. Studies have shown that people tend to be happier and more content when they are in a comfortable temperature range. In turn, more extreme temperatures can exacerbate negative emotions such as stress and anxiety.
Optimal Home Temperature
Everyone has their own ideal temperature they want their home to be, especially between seasons and different home structures. Generally, however, indoor temperatures should follow these guidelines:
Winter:
In colder months, a typical indoor temperature range of 20-22 degrees Celsius is often recommended for comfort and energy efficiency. This can be achieved with heaters and proper insulation.
Summer:
Summer time requires a slightly cooler temperature, ideally between 24-26 degrees Celsius. Using ceiling fans and keeping curtains closed during the hottest part of the day can help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
Sleep:
For optimal sleep, a slightly cooler temperature than aimed for during the day, around 18-21 degrees Celsius, is often preferred. Cooler temperatures can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy a deeper, more restful sleep.
Tips for Improving Home Temperature
In order to achieve your dream home temperature, there are some fairly simple steps you can follow. Some require cooling technology, while others can be achieved through personal efforts:
Invest in a Quality Thermostat
Having an adjustable thermostat in your home can allow you to set and control its temperature until it falls into a desired range.
Programmable or smart thermostats can even allow you to schedule temperature adjustments based on your daily routines and preferences, saving energy and ensuring comfort throughout the day and night.
Seal Drafts
While it may not be noticeable, drafts located around the house can significantly affect your home’s temperature and energy efficiency. Inspect your home’s windows and doors for drafts and seal them with weatherstripping or caulk. This will work to prevent heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer.
Proper Insulation
Adequate  insulation upgrades in your home’s walls, roof, and floors helps maintain a consistent temperature. If your home is poorly insulated, consider investing in insulation upgrades to regulate indoor temperature and reduce energy bills.
Use Ceiling Fans
For those who don’t have or aren’t interested in air conditioning units, ceiling fans are just as useful for maintaining temperature year round. While operating, they distribute air throughout the home for equal cover.
Just make sure your ceiling fans rotate counterclockwise in the summer for a cooling effect, and clockwise in the winter to circulate warm air.
Window Coverings
Curtains or blinds can be used to control the amount of sunlight, and therefore the amount of heat, entering your home during the day. Thick curtains can help insulate your windows, keeping your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
Regular HVAC Maintenance
For those who have a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, regular maintenance visits from a professional can ensure it operates efficiently. This may be taking it upon yourself to clean or replace filters as recommended, or scheduling an annual professional inspection to tune up the system as needed.
AC repair experts Alliance Climate Control are available for any air conditioning unit’s necessary maintenance sessions, providing expert care every time.
Zoning Systems
Zoning systems in a household can allow you to control the temperature in different areas independently. This is especially useful for larger homes or homes with multiple levels, which may require their own unique levels of temperature.
Natural Ventilation
Natural ventilation should be taken advantage of where possible in Summer, which can be done by simply opening windows strategically. In the evening, when outdoor temperatures drop, opening windows will allow cooler air to circulate throughout your home and keep occupants comfortable.
Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
Energy-efficient appliances, such as LED lighting and ENERGY STAR-rated appliances, generate less heat, reducing the need for air conditioning and lowering your energy bills.
Dress for the Season
Although it may seem obvious, dressing appropriately for the season can help you stay comfortable at home without relying solely on heating or cooling systems. Be sure to wear warm clothing in the winter and lightweight, breathable fabrics in the summer.
Home temperature is a vital factor in determining your quality of life at home. By understanding the impact of temperature on your comfort, health, productivity, and mood, you can take steps to create an environment that enhances your overall well-being.
Whether through smart thermostat technology, proper insulation, or simple adjustments to your daily routine, improving your home temperature can lead to a more comfortable and enjoyable living space.
So, take the time to assess and optimise your home’s temperature settings and enjoy the benefits of a cosier, more inviting home.
