Heating Degree Days

• Application of temperature data to energy consumption:

A heating degree day is defined as:

65°F - mean daily temp

QUESTION FOR THOUGHT:

Suppose peas are planted in Indiana on May 1. If the peas need 1200 growing degree-days before they can be picked, and if the average maximum temperature for May and June in 80°F and the average minimum is 60°F, on about what date will the peas be ready to pick? (Assume a base temperature of 55°F)

Mean Annual Heating degree days over the U.S. in thousands of °F