British Columbians battle over the temperature in the bedroom: B.C. Hydro

A recent B.C. Hydro survey has found that one third of B.C. couples surveyed are batting over bedroom temperatures.

The survey found thermostat temperature can be a contentious topic in many B.C. households. More than 80% of B.C. couples said they complain about the temperature in their home to their partner — with 40% complaining at least once a week and almost 15% complaining daily, according to a press release issued by B.C. Hydro.

Those who live in Northern B.C. are the most likely to complain about their home temperature at least once a day, perhaps because of the colder climate in that region, B.C. Hydro said.

About a third of couples complaints led to arguments and a quarter of the arguments are over the bedroom temperature.

Almost 30% of those surveyed said arguments have escalated to the point where they have slept in — or considered sleeping in — another room because it is too hot or cold in the bedroom.

And, while 26% admit they are the one who usually complains about the bedroom temperature, 37% say their partner is more likely to start the battle.

When the lights go out, 71% of British Columbian couples said they find it difficult to sleep because of bedroom temperature. Roughly three-quarters of B.C. residents are going to bed with a higher temperature than the B.C. Hydro's recommendation of 16 C in winter.

Those living in the Okanagan and Kootenays like their bedroom the coolest — 26% said they set the thermostat at or below 16 C each night.

Those who live in the Lower Mainland like it the hottest and are the most likely to fall asleep with the thermostat set to 23 C or higher.

Overall, the survey found 80% of couples said they prefer a cooler bedroom. 

To contact a reporter for this story, email Carli Berry or call 250-864-7494 or email the editor. You can also submit photos, videos or news tips to the newsroom and be entered to win a monthly prize draw.

We welcome your comments and opinions on our stories but play nice. We won't censor or delete comments unless they contain off-topic statements or links, unnecessary vulgarity, false facts, spam or obviously fake profiles. If you have any concerns about what you see in comments, email the editor in the link above.