From October 1 through May 31, New York City building owners must maintain an indoor temperature of at least 68 degrees between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. when it’s below 55 degrees outside. From 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., indoor temperature must be at least 62 degrees regardless of the temperature outside. Hot water must be kept at a minimum temperature of 120 degrees at the source, year-round.

NYCHA remains committed to providing residents with the critical services of heat and hot water throughout the heating season.

NYCHA is in the process of modernizing heating controls at 66 developments. Apartments that used to be typically overheated are now at a more comfortable range of 72-74 degrees during the day and 69-71 degrees at night, with the distribution systems energizing in cycles to prevent overheating, underheating, and save energy. Residents at these buildings no longer need to open their windows to let out excess heat.

Additional tips to help keep your apartment comfortable this winter:

• Keep your windows fully closed.
• Consider removing your window air conditioner, or covering it.
• Move furniture away from radiators or baseboards to keep the air moving freely.
• Open the hand valve on your radiator. Turn the knob to the left to open it (more heat) and the right to close it (less heat).
• Lower your blinds or draw your curtains at night.
• Keep hallway and stairwell windows closed.

Are you having an issue with heat or hot water?

Residents experiencing issues with heat or hot water should call the Customer Contact Center at 718-707-7771 or report the issue via the MyNYCHA mobile app or web version.

Also contact NYCHA when:

• Your temperature is out of range: it should not be below 68 degrees during the day (when it's below 55 degrees outside) or 62 degrees at night (regardless of the temperature outside).
• You have hot pipes and cold radiators: First make sure the hand valve is open (to the left). If the valve is open and the radiator is still cold, ask for your radiator trap to be changed.
• Your window is not closing properly.
• Steam is leaking into your apartment.
• Your building’s front entrance door does not fully close.

Additional Resources for Residents

• Heating Season Resident Flyer English | Español | 中文 (繁體 | 简体)| Русский
• Cold Weather Tips
• Missed attending the NYCHA 2020 Heating Season Virtual Town Hall?
• Resident must be directed to report this type of incidents to CCC.