Going cold turkey when it comes to heat may not be for everyone, but there are a growing number of folks who, for all, or part of the year, turn off heat and air conditioning. The NY Times reports that Justen Ladda has lived heat-free in his Lower East Side loft for three decades and the Cold House Journal tracks a Maine couple trying to live comfortably in a house without a furnace.
Many folks aren’t ‘hardcore’ and have some heat, whether it's space heaters, electric blankets, or woodstoves. Some just turn the thermostat down to as a way to conserve on fuel, heating bills and help the environment.
Heatless Houses
Chilly Choices to Conserve Fuel and Improve the Environment
Trend Themes
1. Heatless Living - The trend of living without heat, or with less heat usage, is growing as people seek to conserve fuel and reduce their environmental impact.
2. Alternative Heating - As people look for ways to heat their homes without traditional furnaces or air conditioning, there is an opportunity for disruptive innovations in alternative heating sources.
3. Smart Temperature Control - With more people adjusting their thermostats to conserve energy, there is an opportunity for innovative temperature control systems that allow for precise, targeted heating without wasting energy.
Industry Implications
1. Home Energy Efficiency - The trend of heatless living and alternative heating sources highlights the need for industry innovation in home energy efficiency, including insulation, weatherization and renewable energy sources.
2. Smart Home Technology - As people look for innovative ways to control their home temperature, the market for smart home technology, including sensors and temperature control systems, is expanding.
3. Sustainable Living - The trend of heatless living and alternative heating sources also presents opportunities for industries that promote sustainable living practices, including renewable energy technologies, sustainable building materials, and waste reduction solutions.