The temperature of our house is important to feel good there, especially in the middle of winter. But the heating does not necessarily have to be set to maximum, and the temperature varies from one room to another. Most people sleep better at lower temperatures, but the bathroom can definitely be a little warmer.
Women, children and the elderly often prefer a warmer environment than men. The temperature felt is also not the same as the actual temperature of the ambient air. “The perception of temperature is very personal and depends on many factors,” explains Matthias Balmer, professor at the Institute of Building Technology and Energy at the University of Lucerne,
“So in old buildings, it has to be warmer for you to feel warm. This is caused by cold surfaces, for example walls or windows. They cool down more than in newer homes, which results in a feeling of lower temperature.”
The way we are dressed and our movements also play an essential role. “The degree of activity makes a big difference. When sitting or lying down, humans produce less energy than when standing and they then feel cold more quickly,” continues Matthias Balmer.
Why should the bedroom be rather cool, with 16 to 19 degrees? We are lying there so we would need a higher temperature. This is where clothing comes in. Or more precisely here, down: “Down is sort of a winter coat, it warms a lot. Therefore, temperatures in the bedroom may be lower than in the living room, for example. There, we are certainly dressed, but we are moving at least slightly.”
Children’s rooms, especially those of babies and young children, should not be too cool. During the day, it is recommended to have between 22 and 23 degrees, a temperature similar to that of the bathroom.
The bathroom should be warm, because sometimes we are not only naked there, but also wet, and therefore particularly sensitive to cool temperatures. Both the living room and office should be around 20 to 22 degrees. We certainly move little there, but we are also rather properly dressed. The kitchen may be less heated because the many electrical appliances and the oven usually heat it up when in use. There, 19 degrees is enough.
