How to Use Your Thermostat to Save Money During Winter

As winter approaches and the temperature dips, finding ways to save money on your energy bills becomes a top priority. One of the most effective ways is adjusting your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without losing comfort.

With several options and techniques available, homeowners can lower 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 several ways to find the perfect balance between warmth and savings.

In general, a good rule of thumb is the lower the temperature in your home and the less difference there is between the air inside your home and the outside temperature, the more money you will save on your HVAC bills.

Money-Saving Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home

When you’re going to be home, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) advises setting your thermostat to between 68°F and 70°F in the winter. That’s warm enough to keep lots of families comfy, but also low enough to be energy efficient.

Effective Temperature Settings While You Going to Be Out of Your Home

The DOE states you can save approximately 10% on your home heating costs by lowering your thermostat 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. That way, you’re not wasting money heating your home while you’re not there.

Industry professionals say, if you are going on vacation or will be gone a prolonged period of time, you can adjust 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 waiting for you when you get home.

When you return to your home, turn up the temperature bit by bit. That will keep your heating system from running too hard, which could be the case if you raise the temperature on your thermostat really high right away.

Suggested Thermostat Settings While You Are Asleep

The great news about sleep-time thermostat settings in the winter is that people get good sleep when it’s a little colder. The National Sleep Foundation suggests somewhere between 66 and 70 degrees is the ideal temperature range for quality sleep.

Additional Tactics to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter

There are a number of 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 reduce drafts, keep warm air inside and avoid heat loss. This will decrease the stress on your HVAC system and save energy.

Install a programmable thermostat

Install a programmable thermostat to manage the temperature in your home efficiently. Set lower temperatures when you're not home or asleep and increase them only when required.

For even more savings, set up a smart thermostat that can perceive when you are in or out and modify the temperature accordingly. To learn more about these products or for smart thermostat installation in Reinholds, consult with the skilled technicians at County Line Mechanical LLC. We can explain 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 furnace operates more efficiently, lowering energy consumption and potentially avoiding costly repairs. Clean or change air filters routinely to make sure your unit has proper airflow.

For furnace maintenance in Reinholds, call the team at County Line Mechanical LLC. Our specialists will get your system in top shape!

Seal air leaks

Locate and close off any air leaks in your home. Typical spots for leaks tend to be windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Sealing these gaps stops warm air from escaping, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a sufficient 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 need, furnace replacement may be a good long-term option. Today’s furnaces are highly efficient, which can considerably decrease your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re thinking about getting a new heating system, contact the professionals at County Line Mechanical LLC. We’re noted for skilled furnace installation in Reinholds and will help you pick a unit that’s well suited for your home! Call 717-216-0846 today to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation estimate!