It's winter! And that means cold temperatures and big heating costs. If you're looking to cut your energy bills this season without compromising comfort, this guide is for you. We’ll review how to make sure your Troy home stays cozy without costing you a fortune. With these ideas, it'll be easy to keep warm all winter long!
Let’s review what temperature to set your thermostat in winter:
- While you’re home during the day.
- While sleeping at night.
- While you’re gone.
We’ll also review how getting a smart thermostat can keep heating bills low, as well as a few of our top energy-saving tips for chilly weather.
Our Suggestions for Winter Thermostat Settings
You might be wondering if 70 is a good temperature for the winter. It can be, but it also varies based on your comfort needs and your goals for energy efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), setting your thermostat at 68 is the best way to keep heating costs down.
What Temperature to Set Your Thermostat in Winter During the Day
While Home
The DOE recommends 68 degrees during the day. If you’re feeling too cold, there are a couple of other ways you can stay comfortable.
- Set your ceiling fan in reverse when you’re in a room. This redistributes hot air that gathers near the ceiling.
- Select energy-efficient window treatments, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters. If your home has old or drafty windows, installing plastic sheeting or window blankets provides an additional barrier against the cold.
- Maximize natural warmth by opening south-facing window treatments during the day. Don’t forget to shut them at night to minimize heat loss.
While Gone
If it dips below 30 degrees, setting your thermostat between 64 and 65 degrees is a sensible choice while away. Your furnace won’t be pumping a lot of heat into an empty home, but it’ll be easy for the temperature to recover when you get back.
You may want to set the thermostat slightly higher if you have a dog, especially a puppy, senior dog, small dog or a dog with short hair. Between 66-67 degrees will keep them cozy and happy.
What Temperature to Set Your Thermostat in Winter at Night
Keeping your bedroom cool can help you sleep better. The National Sleep Foundation recommends a thermostat setting of 64-65 degrees.
That might seem too chilly if you’re used to a warmer temperature. If you’re used to sleeping at 68 degrees, try progressively lowering it over the next couple of days and sleep with more blankets or warmer pajamas.
Other Ways to Reduce Energy Costs in the Winter
Keeping your thermostat at the right temperature in the winter is a good start with keeping energy costs low. But there are a few other things you can do to cut your bill.
- Upgrade your thermostat. Programmable thermostats are inexpensive, but most households don’t have them set up correctly. If yours is always on “hold,” you’re at a disadvantage for energy savings. While you can program yours, it can be a lengthy process, especially if your schedule changes from day to day. A smart thermostat can eliminate all those steps because it can create an energy-efficient heating schedule based on your routine and temperature preferences. Find out how you can get a free smart thermostat (or one at a greatly reduced cost)!
- Replace your furnace air filter regularly. A dirty air filter can create a lot of problems for your furnace, including making it use more energy or even causing it to break down. That’s why it’s important to change yours every 30 days if you use a flat filter. Or every three months if you use a pleated filter. If you have pets or someone in your home has allergies or asthma, you may want to replace your filter more often.
- Add extra insulation. Your home is likely among the 90% in the U.S. that don’t have adequate attic insulation. Homes in northern climates require 16-18", while those in southern climates need 13-14".
- Get a new furnace. If your HVAC system is nearly 15 years old, it’s time to start thinking about furnace installation. Getting an ENERGY STAR® furnace can keep you comfier while keeping heating costs low. A new heating system is a major investment, but Edington Heating & Cooling Inc helps make it more affordable through rebates, special offers and financing for qualified customers.
Whenever you have concerns about what is the best temperature to set your thermostat at, energy efficiency during cold weather or any other home comfort issues, Edington Heating & Cooling Inc is here to assist you. We’re the heating and cooling company your friends and neighbors have trusted since 1958. Call us at 937-558-9478 to request your appointment now.