Expert: Dana Krempels, Ph.D. - 9/8/2008

Question
hi, i am 55 years old and i live in ohio. i have wondered for many years, why do i feel cold in the winter with my home set to keep the temperature at 65 degrees and in the summer set to the same temp i am comfortable. thanks

Answer
Dear Frank,

That's an interesting question.

One possibility, of course, is that your house is actually cooler than the 65 Farenheit you've set.  You could set up a thermometer in the house to see whether the places where you sit are colder than where the thermostat is hanging, which is often the case.

Another possibility is the difference in humidity.  I've found that when the air is very dry, I feel a lot colder than when there's a bit of humidity in the air to maintain local warmth.  

And I suppose there's always the chance that just looking outside and seeing everything white and cold has a psychological effect that translates into your body responding and feeling cold!  :)

I'm not sure there's a definite answer here, but I hope this gives you some ideas.

Stay warm!  :)

Dana