As winter gets closer and the temperature drops, 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 losing comfort.
With several options and techniques available, you can decrease 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 plenty of ways to find the appropriate balance between warmth and savings.
In general, 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 exterior temperature, the more money you will save on heating.
Money-Saving Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home
When you’re around your home, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) suggests dialing your thermostat to between 68°F and 70°F in the winter. That’s warm enough to keep most families comfortable, but also low enough to be energy efficient.
Effective Temperature Settings While You Are Away
The DOE estimates you can save approximately 10% on your HVAC 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.
Authorities say, if you are going on vacation or will be gone an extended period of time, you can put your thermostat as low as 50 degrees. This will be warm enough it 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 gradually. That will keep your heating system from performing too hard, which it could if you raise the temperature on your thermostat really high right away.
Recommended Thermostat Settings While You Are Sleeping
The good news about sleep-time thermostat settings in the winter is that people sleep better when it’s a little colder. The National Sleep Foundation suggests somewhere between 66 and 70 degrees is the optimal temperature range for great sleep.
More Tactics to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter
There are several other approaches you can utilize to consume less energy this winter while you heat your home. They include:
Check your insulation levels
Insulate doors, windows and walls to minimize drafts, keep warm air inside and protect against heat loss. This will limit the stress on your heating equipment and save energy.
Install a programmable thermostat
Purchase a programmable thermostat to manage the temperature in your home effortlessly. Set lower temperatures when you're away 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 accordingly. To learn more about these devices or for smart thermostat installation in Tucson, consult with the skilled technicians at Ambient Air. We can provide you with information about how smart thermostats can improve your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.
H3: Plan furnace maintenance:
Plan regular maintenance for your HVAC system. A well-maintained heating system operates more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and potentially avoiding costly repairs. Clean or exchange air filters regularly to make sure your unit has proper airflow.
For furnace maintenance in Tucson, call the team at Ambient Air. We will get your system in peak condition!
Seal air leaks
Find and close off any air leaks in your home. Frequent sites for leaks including 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.
Update 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 good long-term decision. Modern furnaces are highly efficient, which can dramatically decrease your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.
If you’re considering upgrading to a new heating system, call the specialists at Ambient Air. We’re known for experienced furnace installation in Tucson and will help you choose a unit that’s perfect for your home! Call 520-357-4912 today to schedule a no-cost, no-obligation estimate!