It's winter! And that means low temperatures and high heating costs. If you're looking to cut your energy bills this season without sacrificing comfort, this guide is for you. We’ll review how to make sure your McHenry home stays warm without costing you an arm and a leg. With these tips, it'll be easy to keep warm all winter long!
Let’s go over what temperature to set your thermostat in winter:
- While you’re home during the day.
- While sleeping at night.
- While you’re gone.
We’ll also go over how getting a smart thermostat can keep heating bills low, as well as a few of our favorite energy-saving tips for cold weather.
Our Suggestions for Winter Thermostat Settings
You might be wondering if 70 is a good temperature for the winter. It can be, but it also varies based on your comfort level and your goals for energy efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), setting your thermostat at 68 is the best way to keep heating costs down.
What Temperature to Set Your Thermostat in Winter During the Day
While Home
The DOE recommends 68 degrees during daytime. If you’re feeling too chilly, there are a couple of other ways you can stay comfortable.
- Run your ceiling fan in reverse when you’re in a room. This redistributes warm air that gathers near the ceiling.
- Choose energy-efficient window treatments, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters. If your home has old or drafty windows, installing plastic sheeting or window blankets offers an extra barrier against the cold.
- Maximize natural warmth by opening south-facing window treatments during the day. Don’t forget to close them at night to reduce heat loss.
While Gone
If it dips below 30 degrees, setting your thermostat between 64 and 65 degrees is a wise choice while away. Your furnace won’t be pumping a lot of heat into an empty home, but it’ll be easy for the temperature to bounce back when you return.
You may want to set the thermostat somewhat higher if you have a dog, particularly a puppy, senior dog, small dog or a dog with short hair. Between 66-67 degrees will keep them comfortable and happy.
What Temperature to Set Your Thermostat in Winter at Night
Keeping your bedroom cool can help you sleep better. The National Sleep Foundation recommends a thermostat setting of 64-65 degrees.
That might seem too cold if you’re used to a warmer temperature. If you’re used to sleeping at 68 degrees, try slowly lowering it over the next couple of days and sleep with more blankets or thicker pajamas.
Other Ways to Reduce Energy Costs in the Winter
Keeping your thermostat at the right temperature in the winter is a good first step to keeping energy costs low. But there are a few other things you can do to cut your bill.
- Upgrade your thermostat. Programmable thermostats are inexpensive, but most households don’t have them set up correctly. If yours is always on “hold,” you’re at a disadvantage for energy savings. While you can get your schedule set up, it can be a time-consuming process, especially if your schedule changes from day to day. A smart thermostat can get rid of all that work because it can develop an energy-efficient heating schedule based on your routine and temperature preferences. Learn how you can get a free smart thermostat (or one at a greatly reduced price)!
- Replace your furnace air filter often. A dirty air filter can cause a lot of problems for your furnace, including making it use more energy or even causing it to break down. That’s why it’s important to replace yours every month if you use a flat filter. Or every 90 days if you use a pleated filter. If you have pets or someone in your home has allergies or asthma, you may want to replace your filter more frequently.
- Add more insulation. Your home is probably among the 90% in the U.S. that don’t have enough attic insulation. Homes in northern climates need 16-18", while those in southern climates require 13-14".
- Install a new furnace. If your HVAC system is close to 15 years old, it’s time to start considering furnace installation. Getting an ENERGY STAR® furnace can keep you comfier while keeping heating costs low. A new heating system is a big investment, but Jett's Heating & Air Inc. helps make it more affordable through rebates, special offers and financing for qualified customers.
Whenever you have concerns about what is the best temperature to set your thermostat at, energy efficiency during cold weather or any other home comfort questions, Jett's Heating & Air Inc. is here to assist you. We’re the heating and cooling company your friends and neighbors have depended on since 2004. Call us at 815-410-1128 to schedule your appointment today.