As winter gets closer and the temperature dips, finding ways to save money on your heating bills becomes a top priority. One of the simplest strategies is changing your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without sacrificing comfort.
With multiple options and techniques available, it's possible to decrease your heating costs while still keeping your home cozy throughout the chilly season. Whether you prefer a programmable thermostat or manual device, there are several ways to find the perfect balance between warmth and savings.
As a whole, a good rule 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 heating.
Best Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home
When you’re going to be home, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recommends dialing your thermostat to between 68°F and 70°F in the winter. That’s warm enough to keep the majority of families cozy, but also low enough to be energy efficient.
Effective Temperature Settings While You Are Away
The DOE states you can save as much as 10% on your HVAC costs by lowering your thermostat 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. This way, you’re not needlessly spending 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 adjust your thermostat as low as 50 degrees. Doing this will keep your furnace running so you don’t have any frozen or burst pipes waiting for you when you get home.
When you return to your home, increase the temperature little by little. That will keep your heating system from running too hard, which it could if you raise the temperature on your thermostat really high right away.
Cost-Efficient Thermostat Settings While You Are Asleep
The great news about sleep-time thermostat settings in the winter is that people get good sleep when it’s a little colder. The National Sleep Foundation suggests somewhere between 66 and 70 degrees is the ideal temperature range for good sleep.
More Techniques to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter
There are several other techniques you can employ so you 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 counter heat loss. This will minimize the stress on your furnace and save energy.
Buy a programmable thermostat
Install a programmable thermostat to control the temperature in your home effectively. Set lower temperatures when you're not home or asleep and increase them only when needed.
For even more savings, buy a smart thermostat that can detect when you are in or out and adjust the temperature correctly. To learn more about these devices or for smart thermostat installation in Lancaster, contact the skilled technicians at Fairfield Heating & Cooling. We can explain how smart thermostats can improve your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.
H3: Schedule furnace maintenance:
Plan to hire someone to do regular maintenance for your heating and cooling system. A well-maintained heating system functions more efficiently, lowering energy consumption and potentially avoiding costly repairs. Clean or exchange air filters routinely to ensure proper airflow.
For furnace maintenance in Lancaster, call the team at Fairfield Heating & Cooling. Our trained technicians will get your system in peak condition!
Seal air leaks
Detect and seal any air leaks in your home. Frequent spots for leaks tend to be windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Closing these gaps blocks warm air from escaping, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Upgrade your HVAC system
If your furnace 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 option. Modern day furnaces are highly efficient, which can significantly reduce your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.
If you’re considering getting a new heating system, call the professionals at Fairfield Heating & Cooling. We’re recognized for skilled furnace installation in Lancaster and will help you pick a unit that’s well suited for your home! Call 740-331-4331 today to schedule a no-cost, no-obligation estimate!
