For decades, a single number has been drilled into our collective consciousness: 19°C. Touted as the perfect balance of comfort and economy, it became an unshakeable winter rule—a thermal mantra passed down through generations.
But experts now agree: this famous figure belongs to the past. Our modern homes and lifestyles have evolved, and clinging to this old standard may actually compromise both our comfort and our homes’ health.
A Compromise Born of Necessity, Not Comfort
The 19°C guideline took root in the 1970s, an era defined by energy crises and inefficient housing. Most homes were poorly insulated, drafty, and lost heat rapidly. Heating systems were costly and imprecise.
In that context, 19°C wasn’t an “ideal” temperature—it was a practical ceiling. It represented the highest affordable temperature for many, a compromise forced by technical and economic limits, not designed for optimal living.
Why Our Homes No Longer Need the Same Rules
The building landscape has transformed. Contemporary homes are:
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Better insulated against heat loss.
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Better ventilated for air quality.
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Equipped with precise, efficient heating systems.
The old constraints have lifted, making the 19°C benchmark irrelevant. Modern comfort demands a more nuanced approach.
The New Ideal: Smarter, Healthier, and Personalized
see continuation on the next page
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