Heating, Wi-Fi & Laundry: Comfort Basics in Norway🛠️ 📶
The beauty of the fjords is simply stunning, and it's these little things that can make a trip comfortable — or nerve-wracking. Norwegian accommodation is a world unto itself! Whether you're staying in a hotel, studio apartment or campsite, you'll find that it differs from the European "average" in the most charming ways. Imagine electric heating that's regulated by a thermostat on the wall, Wi-Fi that's often faster than at home but can be a bit weak behind the concrete fjord walls, and a washing machine that's sometimes hidden behind a kitchen door. This guide answers 10 frequently asked questions from travellers: how to turn on the underfloor heating, how fast the Norwegian "free" Wi-Fi really is, how much it costs to use the laundry facilities, and why you shouldn't dry wet boots on the radiator. We delved into the instructions provided by the esteemed manufacturers NIBE & Glamox, explored the network conditions offered by Telenor, and pored over the Ookla test reports and campsite price lists (May–July 2025). Save the article — it's updated every season, so you'll always have the latest information!
How does heating work in Norwegian homes and what are the temperatures?
90% of properties use electric convector heaters or underfloor heating (bathroom/entrance). The thermostat dial on the wall shows 1–6 or °C.
● 3–3.5 ≈ 20 °C (comfortable).
● 5 ≈ 25 °C (rapid heating).
Set "eco" = 17 °C during the day to save up to 15% on your bill (relevant for daily electricity rates in apartments). Holding down the "🔒 " button usually prevents children/tourists from accidentally turning off the heating.
What should you do if the room is cold but the radiators are warm?
Mechanical ventilation is common in houses built in the 1970s — it draws air through the kitchen/bathroom extractor fan; in winter, this feels like a draught. Lower the speed on the 0-I-II-III → I regulator, or close the window valves (knob above the frame). Do not close them completely — this is prohibited by TEK17 regulations: condensation and mould may form.
How can you dry clothes quickly after rain or skiing?
● A drying cabinet (tørkeskap) is standard in mountain aparthotels; set it to 50 °C for 2 hours and your boots and gloves will be dry.
● Radiator — only place dry towels on it; wet boots will melt the varnish.
● Camping — drying costs 20 NOK/30 minutes, coins required.
What Wi-Fi can you expect and what to do if it's slow?
Average speed in 2025 — 94 Mbps (Ookla Speedtest Q2).
Problems?
- Switch from 5 GHz to 2.4 GHz behind concrete walls.
- Overload in the evening — switch to your personal Telenor eSIM "Fri Data Weekend".
- Wi-Fi is often limited to 1 Mbps/device at campsites — 1080p streaming will not work.
How much does laundry cost and do you need your own detergent?
● 4-5 star hotels★ : Bag Service 1 kg – 90 NOK, shirt – 55 NOK.
● Apartments/camping: 50 NOK for washing + 30 NOK for drying; coins or Vipps.
● Washing machine in the apartment: detergent is usually provided; if not, Kiwi "Coop Own Brand Tabs" 3 NOK/tab.
Do you need plugs, adapters or power?
Type F/Schuko, 230 V, 50 Hz. Most circuits are 10 A. Using all three at once, like with a kettle, hairdryer and heater, will overload the circuit. Switch on powerful devices one at a time. A Type-C EU adapter is suitable for most gadgets; for UK/US, bring an adapter.
Water: is it safe to drink from the tap?
Yes. All tap water in Norway meets the Mattilsynet "drikkevann" standard. The water doesn't taste like chlorine at all.
Is it normal for there to be noise from the ventilation and underfloor heating?
According to Norsk Standard 8175, a small humming noise of 25–30 dB is normal.
How can I save energy and avoid an over-use fee?
Some apartments have a limit of 10–15 kWh/day.
● Lower the thermostat to 17 °C during the day.
● Cook on an induction hob.
● Wash at 30 °C.
What gadgets should you bring with you?
● EU-Type-C → 3 USB-C adapter.
● Power bank 20,000 mAh.
● Mini multi-plug.
● Universal sink plug.
In terms of everyday life, Norway is a country of "smart comfort": you can drink water from the tap, the heating responds to the temperature, and the Wi-Fi is comparable to office speeds.
Planning a trip? Save this guide and share your tips in the comments to help other travellers make their holiday in Norway as comfortable as possible!
