Austin TX - natural gas central heating unit.  We turned it on maybe three times this past winter, and then only to heat up to about 68 degrees (20 celsius).  

Where we are, the issue is cooling.  When it's in the 90's outside, we keep it between 79-80 (26 C) inside.

Thanks for the interesting comparisons.  I was amazed the first time I saw the basement energy systems in my German relatives' homes.  They looked like the command center in a futuristic film to me, those HUGE oil tanks and such.  

One problem with visiting lots of government buildings in my work is that they almost invariably overheat in winter.  I picture taxpayer money going up in smoke.

Karen in Austin

'tis strange I should be old and neither wise nor valiant. From "The Maid's Tragedy" by Beaumont & Fletcher