How to Use Your Thermostat to Save Money During Winter

As winter draws near and the temperature drops, finding ways to save money on your power bills becomes a top priority. One of the simplest techniques is modifying your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without losing comfort.

With numerous options and techniques available, homeowners can decrease your heating costs while still making 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 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 your monthly energy costs.

Ideal Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home

When you’re going to be home, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recommends setting 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 Going to Be Out of Your Home

The DOE estimates you can save as much as 10% on your heating costs by lowering your thermostat 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. By using this method, you’re not throwing away money heating your home while you’re not there.

Industry professionals 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. That will keep your furnace running so you don’t have any frozen or burst pipes while you are away.

When you arrive home, turn up the temperature bit by bit. 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 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 suggests somewhere between 66 and 70 degrees is the best temperature range for good sleep.

More Ways to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter

There are several other ways you can employ so you consume less energy this winter while you heat your home. They include:

Check your insulation levels

Insulate doors, windows and walls to cut down on drafts, keep warm air inside and counter heat loss. This will limit the stress on your HVAC system and save energy.

Set up a programmable thermostat

Put in a programmable thermostat to regulate the temperature in your home effectively. Set lower temperatures when you're out of your home or asleep and increase them only when needed.

For even more savings, buy a smart thermostat that can sense when you are in or out and adjust the temperature correctly. To learn more about these products or for smart thermostat installation in Erie, consult with the skilled technicians at Patterson & Stirling. We can explain how smart thermostats can help your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.

H3: Arrange furnace maintenance:

Plan to hire someone to do regular maintenance for your heating system. A well-maintained heating system runs more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and probably avoiding costly repairs. Clean or change air filters on a regular basis to make sure your unit has proper airflow.

For furnace maintenance in Erie, call the team at Patterson & Stirling. We will get your system in excellent working order!

Seal air leaks

Find and seal any air leaks in your home. Typical spots for leaks including windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Plugging these gaps stops warm air from escaping, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Improve your HVAC system

If your furnace is old, inefficient or just isn’t able to keep your home as warm as you want, furnace replacement may be an ideal long-term decision. Modern day furnaces are highly efficient, which can significantly decrease your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re contemplating investing in a new heating system, contact the professionals at Patterson & Stirling. We’re noted for skilled furnace installation in Erie and will help you select a unit that’s well suited for your home! Call 814-308-0416 today to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation estimate!