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Cold Hands, Warm Hearth?: Climate, Net Takeback, and Household Comfort

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  • Peter M. Schwarz
  • Thomas N. Taylor

Abstract

Insulation reduces marginal heating cost and may lead to a takeback effect of higher wintertime thermostat settings, with a consequent dilution of energy savings. Alternatively, additional insulation could permit a lower thermostat setting by reducing drafts and radiation while increasing moisture retention, thereby enhancing comfort. This paper evaluates thermostat net takeback, the difference between takeback and enhanced comfort. Evidence supports the existence of both effects, with net takeback at the low end of literature estimates. Net thermostat takeback is on the order of 0.05 degrees F, leading to an energy takeback that ranges from 1-3% of potential energy savings, depending on climate and house size. Other significant determinants of thermostat are heating energy price and the presence of elderly or young occupants.

Suggested Citation

  • Peter M. Schwarz & Thomas N. Taylor, 1995. "Cold Hands, Warm Hearth?: Climate, Net Takeback, and Household Comfort," The Energy Journal, , vol. 16(1), pages 41-54, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:enejou:v:16:y:1995:i:1:p:41-54
    DOI: 10.5547/ISSN0195-6574-EJ-Vol16-No1-3
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Dubin, Jeffrey A & McFadden, Daniel L, 1984. "An Econometric Analysis of Residential Electric Appliance Holdings and Consumption," Econometrica, Econometric Society, vol. 52(2), pages 345-362, March.
    2. Jeffrey A. Dubin & Allen K. Miedema & Ram V. Chandran, 1986. "Price Effects of Energy-Efficient Technologies: A Study of Residential Demand for Heating and Cooling," RAND Journal of Economics, The RAND Corporation, vol. 17(3), pages 310-325, Autumn.
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