As winter gets closer and the temperature dips, finding ways to save money on your energy bills becomes a top priority. One of the most effective ways is changing your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without losing comfort.
With several options and techniques available, it's possible to decrease your heating costs while still trying to keep your home cozy throughout the chilly season. Irrespective of whether you prefer a programmable thermostat or manual device, there are several ways to find the appropriate balance between warmth and savings.
In general, 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 exterior temperature, the more money you will save on your HVAC bills.
Best Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home
When you’re at home, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) advises dialing your thermostat to between 68°F and 70°F in the winter. That’s warm enough to keep most families comfy, but also low enough to be energy efficient.
Effective Temperature Settings While You Not at Home
The DOE reports you can save up to 10% on your heating costs by turning down your thermostat 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. That way, you’re not throwing away money heating your home while you’re not there.
Experts 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. That will keep your furnace running so you don’t have any frozen or burst pipes cause damage to your home while you're gone.
When you return to your home, turn up the temperature gradually. 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.
Cost-Efficient 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 states somewhere between 66 and 70 degrees is the optimal temperature range for quality sleep.
Additional Tactics to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter
There are many other techniques you can use to consume less energy this winter while you heat your home. They include:
Examine your insulation levels
Insulate doors, windows and walls to minimize drafts, keep warm air inside and counter heat loss. This will minimize the stress on your heating equipment and save energy.
Buy a programmable thermostat
Install a programmable thermostat to manage the temperature in your home conveniently. Set lower temperatures when you're out of your home or asleep and increase them only when necessary.
For even more savings, install a smart thermostat that can sense when you are in or out and change the temperature appropriately. To learn more about these devices or for smart thermostat installation in Sarasota, consult with the skilled technicians at Airtech Cooling & Heating. We can provide you with information about how smart thermostats can improve your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.
Schedule furnace maintenance
Plan regular maintenance for your HVAC system. A well-maintained heating system runs more efficiently, decreasing energy consumption and probably avoiding costly repairs. Clean or replace air filters routinely to make sure your unit has proper airflow.
For furnace maintenance in Sarasota, call the team at Airtech Cooling & Heating. Our specialists will get your system in excellent working order!
Seal air leaks
Locate 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 seeping out, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a comfy temperature.
Upgrade your HVAC system
If your heating system is old, inefficient or just isn’t able to keep your home as warm as you want, furnace replacement may be a good long-term option. Contemporary furnaces are highly efficient, which can significantly reduce your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.
If you’re considering upgrading to a new heating system, contact the professionals at Airtech Cooling & Heating. We’re known for skilled furnace installation in Sarasota and will help you select a unit that’s well suited for your home! Call 941-377-7956 today to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation estimate!