As the temperatures drop, you may find yourself feeling increasingly stressed, both mentally and physically. When your home becomes a refrigerator, it’s not just your comfort that’s affected. Poor heating can lead to a variety of health problems. These four key questions form the basis of the real dangers of living in a cold house.
1. Difficulty breathing
Cold air can irritate your respiratory system, making you more susceptible to coughs, colds, and even more serious illnesses like bronchitis and pneumonia. Children and people with existing medical conditions are at greater risk. A recent study found that children in cold homes were 47% more likely to wheeze.
2. Cardiovascular problems
As your body adjusts to cold conditions, your blood pressure increases, putting additional stress on your heart and circulatory system. This can increase the risk of heart attack, especially for residents with underlying cardiovascular disease.
3. Weakened immune system
Continuous exposure to temperatures below 59 degrees Fahrenheit or 15 degrees Celsius destroys the body’s natural defenses, making it more difficult to fight off viruses and bacteria. Over time, you become more susceptible to infection and disease.
4. Muscle problems
Cold temperatures can cause muscle tension and stiffness, which can lead to pain. It can also worsen arthritis symptoms, causing increased discomfort. Additionally, icy surfaces around cold homes can increase the risk of falls, especially for older adults.
What temperature is too cold for a house?
During the winter, experts recommend keeping indoor temperatures between 64 degrees Fahrenheit and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, or at least 64 degrees Fahrenheit for both young and old. This recommendation is in line with World Health Organization guidelines, but please always consult your doctor based on your specific needs. People often have different thresholds—for example, someone with COPD may need a warmer climate to prevent flare-ups.
How does a cold home affect your mental health?
The cold and long nights of winter can affect your mood, making you feel depressed and anxious for no reason. A British study showed that people who moved into cold homes were about 1.5 times more likely to suffer severe mental distress than those who moved into warmer homes.
Because of the weather, you may be less likely to invite friends and family over or avoid going out altogether. Reduced social interaction can increase feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Shorter daylight hours and reduced sunlight exposure can also lead to persistent feelings of sadness, which may trigger Seasonal Affective Disorder. The added stress of uncomfortable living circumstances can make it more difficult to manage symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.
3 steps to mitigate cold home risks
The health effects of living in a cold house are often not to be ignored. Follow these steps to create a warmer, more comfortable environment.
1. Enhance insulation
Improving your home’s insulation is one of the most effective ways to retain heat. Start by checking for gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and other areas where heat can escape. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal these openings.
2. Upgrade Windows
Consider upgrading to energy-efficient windows with better insulation, which can significantly reduce heat loss. The two main characteristics to look for in a cold weather window are U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SGHC) rating. The U-factor measures how well a window insulates, while the SHGC measures how much solar heat a window lets into your home. Experts recommend using glass with the lowest U-factor and highest SGHC to maximize thermal insulation and energy efficiency.
3. Install a smart thermostat
When you upgrade to a smart thermostat, you can schedule your heating to fit your daily routine, ensuring your house stays warm when you need it. These systems can also reduce heating and cooling costs. A smart thermostat that meets Energy Star or similar standards can save you about 8% on your energy bills each year.
Prepare your home for the cold season
Living in a cold house can take a toll on your health, including respiratory problems, cardiovascular strain, increased isolation, and even seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Now is the time to evaluate your living conditions and take action to safeguard your health during the colder months.
