Wondering what temperature to leave your house in winter when away? Keeping your home at the right temperature can help save energy while reducing the risk of frozen pipes and cold-weather damage. A suitable setting depends on the outdoor climate, insulation, heating system, and how long you will be away.
| Situation | Suggested House Temperature | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| At home during winter | 68–70°F (20–21°C) | Comfortable for most people |
| Away for a few hours | 65–68°F (18–20°C) | Saves energy while maintaining heat |
| Away for several days | Around 60–65°F (16–18°C) | Helps reduce heating costs |
| Away during very cold weather | At least 55–60°F (13–16°C) | Helps reduce the risk of frozen pipes |
| Long winter vacation | Around 60°F (16°C) or higher | Check heating and vulnerable plumbing |
| Poorly insulated home | 60–65°F (16–18°C) | May need a higher setting in freezing weather |
| Home with exposed pipes | 60°F (16°C) or higher | Extra protection may be needed |
| Smart thermostat available | Set a minimum temperature and monitor remotely | Provides added control while away |
Why Winter House Temperature Matters
Leaving a house empty in freezing weather can lead to a cascade of problems. Cold indoor air can freeze and burst pipes, often causing costly water damage. It can also encourage condensation, which can lead to mould and rot in walls and ceilings. On the flip side, running the heat at full blast wastes energy and drives up your bills. The sweet spot depends on three things you can control: your local climate, your home’s insulation, and your heating system.
What Temperature to Leave House in Winter When Away
Most experts recommend setting the thermostat between 55 °F and 60 °F (13 °C‑15 °C) when the home is unoccupied. This range is warm enough to keep water in the pipes from freezing, yet low enough to avoid unnecessary heating costs. Below are some quick guidelines for different trip lengths.
Short Absence
If you’re stepping out for a few hours or a single day, you can safely drop the thermostat to the lower end of the range (around 55 °F). A programmable thermostat will raise the temperature before you return, ensuring a comfortable welcome home.
Several Days Away
For trips lasting several days, keep the thermostat steady at 57 °F–58 °F. Maintaining a consistent temperature reduces the risk of cold spots forming around exterior walls and helps the heating system run efficiently.
Longer Winter Vacations
When you’re gone for a week or more, stick with 58 °F–60 °F and take a few extra steps:
- Verify that all windows and doors are sealed.
- Shut off exterior water supplies, or leave faucets slightly open so a slow drip prevents freezing.
- Ask a neighbour or property-management service to stop by once during your stay.
Factors That Affect the Best Winter Temperature
There’s no one‑size‑fits‑all answer. Consider these variables when deciding on your thermostat setting.
Climate and Outdoor Weather
In colder regions where temperatures regularly dip below 20 °F (-7 °C), aim for the higher end of the range to give pipes a larger safety margin.
Insulation and Drafts
Homes with good insulation, double‑glazed windows, and minimal air leaks retain heat better, allowing you to stay closer to 55 °F without risk. Drafty houses may need the thermostat set a few degrees higher.
Plumbing Layout
Pipes that run through unheated spaces—like basements, crawl spaces, garages, or exterior walls—are more vulnerable. If your plumbing is exposed, keep the indoor temperature at 58 °F–60 °F and consider adding pipe‑insulation sleeves.
Situation Recommended Indoor Temp Why
Mild climate (<20 °F outside) 55 °F Good insulation, limited exposure
Cold climate (>20 °F outside) 58 °F–60 °F Protects exposed pipes
Drafty or older home 58 °F–60 °F Compensates for heat loss
Very long absence (>2 weeks) 60 °F Extra safety margin & peace of mind
How to Save Energy While Keeping Your House Safe
You don’t have to sacrifice safety for savings. Here are a few simple actions that trim your heating bill without endangering your home:
- Set your thermostat to a consistent minimum while you’re gone, then raise it a few hours before you return.
- Seal obvious drafts around doors, windows, and electrical outlets with weather‑stripping or caulk.
- Leave interior doors open where appropriate so warm air circulates to colder rooms.
- Close curtains or blinds at night to reduce heat loss through windows.
- Schedule a quick system check before you leave—clean filters, check the pilot light, and make sure the furnace runs smoothly.
Winter Preparations Before Leaving Your House
A quick checklist can make the difference between a worry‑free vacation and a costly emergency.
Protecting Pipes From Freezing
- Open cabinet doors under sinks that sit on exterior walls to let warm air circulate.
- Insulate vulnerable pipes with foam sleeves or wrap them in heat‑reflective tape.
- For extra safety, let a faucet drip a few drops per minute in the coldest rooms.
Checking the Heating System
- Turn the heat on a day before you leave and watch that it maintains the set temperature.
- Replace or clean furnace filters to improve efficiency.
- Verify that the thermostat battery is fresh (if it’s not hard‑wired).
Smart Thermostats and Remote Monitoring
A Wi‑Fi thermostat lets you check the temperature on your phone and adjust it if a sudden cold snap rolls in. Some models also send alerts when the temperature falls below a threshold you set.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leaving Your House in Winter
What temperature should I leave my house at in winter when away?
Most homeowners aim for 55 °F–60 °F, adjusting upward if the climate is very cold or the home has poor insulation.
Is 60°F too cold for a house in winter?
60 °F is generally safe and comfortable for an empty home. It protects pipes while keeping heating costs modest. If you’re in a mild climate with good insulation, you could drop a degree or two.
Should I turn the heat off when leaving for winter vacation?
Turning the heat off completely is risky in freezing temperatures. Without heat, pipe walls can reach the dew point and freeze. Instead, keep the thermostat within the recommended range.
What temperature keeps pipes from freezing?
Keeping indoor air at 58 °F–60 °F is a reliable rule of thumb for most homes, especially where plumbing runs near exterior walls or unheated spaces.
Should I leave interior doors open when away in winter?
Yes—open doors let warm air flow to colder rooms, reducing the chance of localized freezes. Close doors only if a room contains heat‑sensitive items you want to keep cooler.
