What temperature should I keep my house when on vacation in winter?

Set your thermostat to 15-18°C (59-64°F) when away during Ottawa winters. This temperature prevents freezing while significantly reducing your heating costs compared to normal living temperatures.

Why this temperature range matters: Keeping your home too cold (below 15°C) risks frozen pipes, especially in older Ottawa homes where plumbing may run through exterior walls or unheated basements. Water pipes typically freeze around 0°C, but the temperature inside walls and near exterior plumbing can drop much faster than your main living areas. At 15-18°C, you maintain enough heat circulation to protect your plumbing while cutting your heating bill by 20-30% compared to normal 20-22°C settings.

Ottawa-specific considerations: Our harsh winters with temperatures often dropping below -20°C mean your furnace will still run regularly even at vacation settings. If you have an older home with poor insulation or a basement that tends to get cold, consider staying closer to 18°C for added protection. Homes with good insulation and newer windows can safely go to 15°C. Many Ottawa homeowners also shut off their main water supply and drain their pipes if leaving for extended periods (2+ weeks), but this requires professional guidance.

Important safety steps before leaving: Change your furnace filter before departure, as a clogged filter can cause your system to overheat and shut down, leaving your home without heat. Ensure your carbon monoxide detectors have fresh batteries, and consider having a trusted neighbor check on your home every few days. If your furnace fails during extreme cold, pipes can freeze within hours.

Smart thermostat advantage: If you don't have a programmable or smart thermostat, this is an excellent upgrade that pays for itself through energy savings. You can monitor and adjust your home's temperature remotely, giving you peace of mind during winter vacations.