October, to some Michiganders, means cider, football, and hay bales flanked by corn stalks appearing out of nowhere on your front porch. For others, it's discovering the person you love considers indoor heat a character flaw.
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One person wants to save money on the heating bill. The other would like to watch television without dressing for deer camp.
Michigan's Annual Battle Over Turning On the Heat
"Put on a sweatshirt."
The official Michigan answer to "I'm cold," delivered by someone in shorts who has appointed themselves furnace security.
The other person refuses to wear a sweatshirt and three blankets in order to be comfortable on their own couch. They bought a house with heat. Crazy little upgrade. They'd like to use it.
For the thermostat gatekeeper, switching on the furnace before November means surrender. They'll spend $8 on a pumpkin spice latte, then launch a congressional investigation over two degrees.
Meanwhile, the chilly spouse inches past the thermostat like they're stealing the Declaration of Independence.
A Thermostat Truce for Michigan Households
The U.S. Department of Energy suggests starting around 68-70°F when you're home during the winter, then adjusting for comfort. Consumers Energy recommends lowering the thermostat setting by 1 degree at a time until you're comfortable.
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Pick a temperature together and program a schedule. Save money without making someone audition for a survival show. Across Michigan, October supplies enough temperature confusion outside. Your living room doesn't need its own cold front.
Turn on the heat when you need it. The furnace has a switch, not a waiting period.
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