As winter approaches and the temperature drops, finding ways to save money on your energy bills becomes a top priority. One of the simplest techniques is adjusting your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without losing comfort.
With several options and techniques available, homeowners can reduce your heating costs while still trying to keep your home cozy throughout the chilly season. Whether you prefer a programmable thermostat or manual device, there are plenty of ways to find the ideal balance between warmth and savings.
As a whole, a good rule is the lower the temperature inside 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.
Ideal Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home
When you’re at 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 lots of families comfortable, but also low enough to be energy efficient.
Effective Temperature Settings While You Going to Be Out of Your Home
The DOE estimates you can save approximately 10% on your heating costs by decreasing your thermostat 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. By doing this, you’re not needlessly spending money heating your home while you’re not there.
Experts say, if you are going on vacation or will be gone a long 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 while you are away.
When you arrive home, increase the temperature little by little. That will keep your heating system from running too hard, which could happen if you raise the temperature on your thermostat very 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 generally sleep well when it’s a little colder. The National Sleep Foundation states somewhere between 66 and 70 degrees is the ideal temperature range for quality sleep.
More Ways 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:
Evaluate your insulation levels
Insulate doors, windows and walls to minimize drafts, keep warm air inside and protect against heat loss. This will decrease the pressure on your furnace and save energy.
Buy a programmable thermostat
Put in 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, set up a smart thermostat that can sense when you are in or out and change the temperature accordingly. To learn more about these gadgets or for smart thermostat installation in Macon, consult with the skilled technicians at Air Temperature Control. We can explain how smart thermostats can help your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.
H3: Plan furnace maintenance:
Plan to hire someone to do regular maintenance for your heating system. A well-maintained system functions more efficiently, decreasing energy consumption and possibly avoiding costly repairs. Clean or change air filters regularly to make sure your unit has proper airflow.
For furnace maintenance in Macon, call the team at Air Temperature Control. Our specialists will get your system in top shape!
Seal air leaks
Locate and seal any air leaks in your home. Typical sites for leaks including windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Closing these gaps prevents warm air from escaping, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Upgrade your HVAC system
If your HVAC equipment is old, inefficient or just isn’t able to keep your home as warm as you want, furnace replacement may be a smart long-term solution. Contemporary furnaces are extremely efficient, which can significantly decrease your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.
If you’re interested in upgrading to a new heating system, phone the professionals at Air Temperature Control. We’re recognized for experienced furnace installation in Macon and will help you find a unit that’s ideal for your home! Call 478-202-3170 today to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate!