For most homes, a safe and efficient setting when you go on vacation is to turn the heat down, but not off —typically around 55–60°F (13–16°C), adjusted a bit for your climate, trip length, and whether you have pets or vulnerable items at home.

Ideal temperature range

  • In cold climates where pipes could freeze, many energy and utility guides suggest keeping the thermostat between about 55°F and 60°F so interior plumbing stays above freezing and the structure is protected.
  • If your winters are milder and freezing is unlikely, some sources note you can sometimes go a little lower (around the mid‑40s°F) for long absences, but only if plumbing is protected and you fully understand the risk.
  • For shorter trips (a few days to a couple of weeks), leaving the heat on at roughly 5–10°F lower than your normal comfort setting keeps the home safe while still saving energy.

Factors to consider

  • Risk of frozen pipes: Homes with plumbing in exterior walls, basements, or crawlspaces should stay closer to the 60°F side of the range to avoid burst pipes and water damage.
  • Pets, plants, and electronics: If pets stay home, many experts suggest not going below the mid‑50s°F to keep them comfortable; delicate plants or electronics may also need slightly warmer temps.
  • Length of vacation: For months‑long absences, some guides say you can drop lower if you shut off the water and drain pipes, but for typical vacations it’s usually better to keep at least the mid‑50s°F for safety.

Practical tips before you leave

  • Lower your usual set point by about 5–10°F rather than turning the system off entirely; this avoids extreme temperature swings that can stress materials and systems.
  • If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, use the “vacation” or “hold” mode so your reduced setting stays in place, and optionally schedule the house to warm back up a few hours before you return.
  • In very cold regions, consider additional safeguards like insulating exposed pipes, opening cabinet doors under sinks, and shutting off the main water supply if you’re gone for a long time.

Quick rule of thumb:
If you’re asking “what temp should I leave my heat on when on vacation” in winter, a good, widely cited target is about 55–60°F —warmer if you have pets or high freeze risk, cooler only if pipes are fully protected and the climate allows it.