Readers ‘hot’ over thermostat war

Dear Annie: I read the letter from “Upstate New York Where It’s 20 Degrees Outside.” He said his wife has hot flashes and wants to set the thermostat down, but he likes it at 74 so he can run around in his underwear. She’s ready to move out. He thinks she’s being selfish.

We also are from upstate New York, and I think he is the selfish one. He can dress in layers, put on a sweater or buy himself a parka. On the other hand, there is just so much that she can take off. Yes, he may pay the bills, but I wonder who cooks, cleans, does the laundry, shops and cares for the children. – Long-Time Reader, First-Time Responder

Dear Long-Time Reader: That letter made a lot of readers “hot” under the collar. Read on for more:

From Wisconsin: Tell him to turn the heat down and put the money he saves toward those mortgage payments he is so smug about. Better yet, donate it to a charity that helps cover energy bills for those who aren’t able to pay them.

Boston: I have never in my long life said this to anyone, but what a jerk! My husband and I have had this same problem. Our thermostat is set at 69. He wears sweats and warm slippers, and I wear T-shirts. This is not about who pays the mortgage, but about your attitude toward your partner.

Indiana: No one needs to suffer from hot flashes. As soon as my doctor prescribed an antidepressant, it was like someone flipped a switch.

Upstate New York: What an inconsiderate husband. It’s his choice to wear nothing around the house, so he should be willing to suffer the consequences. We keep our house at 65 degrees. Sweaters and slippers are comfortable and healthier than 74 degrees. We sleep well and even better when I get the gas bill. Last time I checked, it was “our” house, not “my” house.