Normal Temperatures & Humidity Levels for a House

Temperature -- Winter

In the winter, most homes use a furnace to regulate the temperature of the house to a comfortable level. The average temperature of a home in the winter ranges between 68 and 70 degrees. While some people might like the house warmer or cooler than this, this is the average level. This is also a good range to leave the house at if you are unsure what constitutes a normal temperature.

Temperature -- Summer

In the summer, it is harder to predict what the average temperature inside a home is going to be, because some people set air conditioners very cold. Madison Gas and Electric recommends keeping the thermostat at 78 degrees when you're at home in the summer. This provides a comfortable living temperature. Turn down the air conditioning and allow the heat to rise to 85 when you're not at home.

Humidity -- Summer

The humidity in your house is something you do need to control. If it gets too high, it helps molds and bacteria to grow in your home, something that could affect the health of your family. Measure humidity with a hygrometer and in the summer make sure that it stays around 50 percent. If it gets much higher than that throughout the home, you might consider the use of a dehumidifier or air conditioner in order to lower humidity levels.

Humidity -- Winter

In the winter, the humidity will naturally be lower in the home than it is in the summer. If the levels get too low, a humidifier can help raise the humidity. In the winter, humidity of between 30 and 40 percent is considered normal. If it gets much lower than 30, you risk problems with dry skin and and irritating cold-like symptoms.