VANCOUVER: Although temperature battles have been waged in homes for decades, a recent BC Hydro survey[1] reveals that, for an increasing number of B.C. couples, temperature disputes are becoming overshadowed by conflicts over electronic device use at bedtime. These disagreements are even leading some B.C. couples to sleep in separate rooms.
The survey reveals that dependency on electronics, especially smartphones, is having a negative impact on some couples, often disrupting their partners’ sleep, and leading to feelings of disconnection. Over 20 per cent said their partners’ phone or tablet use in the bedroom is their most annoying sleep habit, second only to snoring (43 per cent). About one-fifth said they regularly disagree about phone or electronic use in the bedroom, with almost ten per cent reported regular disagreements about phone or electronic use in the bedroom.
While late night scrolling is among the top annoyances for couples, temperature tiffs still are high on the list. More than one-third of British Columbian couples who share a bedroom report having arguments about the bedroom temperature at night. Women are over twice as likely as men to initiate temperature complaints and tend to prefer a cooler space. Nearly half even resort to keeping a window open all night even in the colder months to try and regulate temperature, which can lead to further squabbles.
To keep the peace, BC Hydro recommends the following:
- Set it up: Once you reach a compromise, get a programmable thermostat to keep the temperature at the agreed upon number. Right now, get $25 off select smart thermostats at select retailers until February 21, 2025. Visit BC Hydro’s deals on energy-efficient products for more information.
- Agree to disagree: Using separate duvet covers or wearing warmer or cooler pajamas to bed can help ease temperature tensions.
- Achieve the perfect balance: BC Hydro recommends setting the thermostat to:
- 16 degrees Celsius when away from home or sleeping;
- 21 degrees Celsius when relaxing or watching T.V.; and,
- 18 degrees Celsius when cooking or doing housework.
- Go low power: Most smart phones have a low power mode that automatically changes settings to conserve battery life, such as reducing screen brightness – which might help your partner get more shuteye.
- Wear an eye mask: Eye masks can block out light from pesky devices, resulting in a more satisfying sleep.
For more lovable ways to save energy, visit powersmart.ca.
[1] survey conducted by BC Hydro from January 17th – 21st, 2025 among a representative sample of 817 online British Columbians 18+ who are members of the Angus Reid Forum. Margin of error o+/-3.5 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.