As winter draws near and the temperature dips, finding ways to save money on your power bills becomes a top priority. One of the most effective tips is changing your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without compromising comfort.
With many options and techniques available, homeowners can lower your heating costs while still trying to keep your home cozy throughout the chilly season. Regardless of whether you prefer a programmable thermostat or manual device, there are many ways to find the ideal balance between warmth and savings.
As a whole, a good rule of thumb is the lower the temperature within your home and the less difference there is between the air inside your home and the outdoor temperature, the more money you will save on your HVAC bills.
Ideal Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home
When you’re at home, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recommends setting your thermostat to between 68°F and 70°F in the winter. That’s warm enough to keep lots of families comfy, but also low enough to be energy efficient.
Effective Temperature Settings While You Not at Home
The DOE estimates you can save up to 10% on your HVAC costs by lowering your thermostat 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. By using this method, you’re not wasting money heating your home while you’re not there.
Industry professionals say, if you are going on vacation or will be gone a prolonged period of time, you can set your thermostat as low as 50 degrees. Doing this will keep your furnace running so you don’t have any frozen or burst pipes while you are away.
When you return to your home, increase the temperature slowly. That will keep your heating system from running too hard, which it could if you raise the temperature on your thermostat very high right away.
Suggested Thermostat Settings While You Are in Bed for The Night
The great news about sleep-time thermostat settings in the winter is that people sleep better when it’s a little colder. The National Sleep Foundation says somewhere between 66 and 70 degrees is the optimal temperature range for good sleep.
Other Techniques to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter
There are a number of other techniques you can utilize to consume less energy this winter while you heat your home. They include:
Evaluate your insulation levels
Insulate doors, windows and walls to reduce drafts, keep warm air inside and avoid heat loss. This will minimize the workload on your HVAC system and save energy.
Set up a programmable thermostat
Purchase a programmable thermostat to manage the temperature in your home efficiently. Set lower temperatures when you're not home or asleep and increase them only when required.
For even more savings, buy a smart thermostat that can sense when you are in or out and modify the temperature correctly. To learn more about these systems or for smart thermostat installation in Dundas and Northfield, contact the skilled technicians at Better Air. We can provide you with information about how smart thermostats can help your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.
H3: Schedule furnace maintenance:
Plan regular maintenance for your heating and cooling system. A well-maintained heating system runs more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and probably avoiding costly repairs. Clean or exchange air filters regularly to assure proper airflow.
For furnace maintenance in Dundas and Northfield, call the team at Better Air. Our specialists will get your system in top shape!
Seal air leaks
Find and seal any air leaks in your home. Common places for leaks including windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Plugging these gaps blocks warm air from seeping out, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a comfy temperature.
Update your HVAC system
If your HVAC equipment is old, inefficient or just isn’t able to keep your home as warm as you desire, furnace replacement may be a good long-term solution. Modern day furnaces are highly efficient, which can notably lower your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.
If you’re interested in upgrading to a new heating system, call the professionals at Better Air. We’re recognized for knowledgeable furnace installation in Dundas and Northfield and will help you select a unit that’s well suited for your home! Call 507-663-1208 today to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate!