Put on a Sweater

by WiredBerries Editors — January 28, 2008

I stopped by a friend's house yesterday and was shocked at the temperature in her home. I was sweating within 5 minutes of arrival! As she strolled around in a t-shirt in sweats, I heard my mother's voice echo in my mind, "If you're cold, put on a sweater." In our climate-controlled culture, we have somehow forgotten that winter is supposed to be chilly and summer warm, and our need to live at 75 degrees in the winter and 65 in the summer is affecting our bills, our noses, and the planet!

"During each 24-hour period, you will save about 3% on your heating bill for every 1° that you lower the thermostat setting. For example, if you normally keep your thermostat set at 75° all the time, and you lower it by 3° to 72°, you will save about 9% (3×3%) on your heating bill. In other words, you will save about 9 cents for every dollar you spend on heating costs," reports the US Department of Energy.

In addition, for every 1 degree higher the furnace is set, it robs up to 5% moisture out of the air. That can lead to bloody noses and dry hair and skin. In addition, turning down the heat conserves energy, which lightens the load on Mother Nature.

And the best reason to turn down the heat? It gives you a perfect excuse to snuggle up to your favorite someone!