What is the Average Room Temperature?

What is the average room temperature?

To start, the term “room temperature” refers to that sweet spot where indoor environments feel just right. You may hear the term used in cooking: “to leave something at room temperature.”

But what is that number, exactly?

While there's no one-size-fits-all definition, the average room temperature generally falls between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. So, when you hear someone mention "room temperature," they're likely referring to that range. Whether or not you’re on the lower side or higher side of that range, it comes down to personal preference, which is where some of the debate about the “right” number comes from!

What is a typical thermostat setting?

Based on the above, the typical thermostat setting in most households falls at this average room temperature between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it's important to consider personal preferences, climate conditions, and energy-saving goals when determining the ideal temperature for your home. You may find that you need to adjust the thermostat depending on who lives within your home

For babies and infants: When it comes to babies and infants, many parents wonder what’s not only an ideal room temperature for their babies to sleep in but also what temperature is most safe. The important thing to remember is that babies can be at a higher risk for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) if their room is not at the appropriate temperature, especially if the room is overheated. Maintaining a range of 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit and keeping a close eye on the temperature in their room using a temperature sensor or baby monitor is important for the baby’s safety. 

It’s also important that parents dress their babies appropriately. Generally, newborns should be kept snug and warm, but not so much so that they overheat. Pay attention to the weather and how you’re feeling. If you need to strip your sweater, chances are your baby doesn’t need long sleeves and three blankets! Talk to your pediatrician to understand what’s best. 

For the elderly: Now, let’s jump to the other side of the age gap. Similar to babies and infants, the ideal room temperature for the elderly should also be between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. However, individual preferences and specific health conditions should be considered to ensure your elderly friend or relative is comfortable. 

For pets: Pets have their temperature preferences too! Though temperature preferences depend on a number of different factors – including your pet’s size, breed and fur type – a general rule of thumb to keep your furry friends content is to maintain a temperature range of 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. However, always monitor their behavior and adjust the temperature accordingly to ensure their comfort. If you have your AC on in the summer, you may want to leave it on for your pets when you’re not home, and the same goes for the heat in the winter! 

What is the ideal room temperature in Winter and Summer?

As the seasons change, so do our temperature preferences. Depending on where you live, you likely have the heat turned up in the winter and the AC blasting in the summer. 

In summer, the recommended average room temperature for daytime is typically around 75 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit. For many, that temperature will feel balmy, maybe even too balmy. If you have AC, feel free to lower your home’s temperature to what feels comfortable, especially at night, so you can sleep comfortably.

In winter, the recommended average room temperature for daytime is usually around 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re living in particularly cold conditions, this temperature may not feel like enough of a respite from the snowy world outside your window, and if that’s the case, it’s perfectly fine to bump up your heat. That being said, having the heat on too high can also make the home dry. Instead of leaving the heat on all day, consider lowering the temperature to the recommended range at night to prevent a dry home, promote better sleep and save on heating expenses. 

If you’re concerned about ensuring your home is at the right temperature during extreme weather, a SimpliSafe’s temperature sensor can come in handy. The sensor will trigger an alarm if your home drops below 41 degrees Fahrenheit, saving you from freezing or bursting pipes, or if your home reaches your predetermined upper-temperature limit, protecting your pets, paintings or plants from overheating.