Set Your Thermostat and Save Money During the Cold Months

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

With many options and techniques available, it's possible to 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 many ways to find the perfect 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 outdoor temperature, the more money you will save on heating.

Ideal Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home

When you’re around your 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 the majority of families comfortable, but also low enough to be energy efficient.

Effective Temperature Settings While You Not at Home

The DOE reports you can save as much as 10% on your heating costs by decreasing 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.

Experts 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. That will keep your furnace running so you don’t have any frozen or burst pipes cause damage to your home while you're gone.

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

Recommended Thermostat Settings While You Are Sleeping

The nice thing about sleep-time thermostat settings in the winter is that people sleep better when it’s a little colder. The National Sleep Foundation says somewhere between 66 and 70 degrees is the best temperature range for great sleep.

Other Tactics to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter

There are a number of other approaches 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 prevent heat loss. This will limit the pressure on your heating equipment and save energy.

Install a programmable thermostat

Install a programmable thermostat to manage the temperature in your home effortlessly. Set lower temperatures when you're out of your home or asleep and increase them only when necessary.

For even more savings, set up a smart thermostat that can detect when you are in or out and adjust the temperature appropriately. To learn more about these systems or for smart thermostat installation in Mount Horeb, consult with the skilled technicians at JW Brager Heating and Cooling. We can provide you with information about how smart thermostats can benefit your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.

H3: Schedule furnace maintenance:

Schedule regular maintenance for your heating and cooling system. A well-maintained system functions more efficiently, lowering energy consumption and potentially avoiding costly repairs. Clean or change air filters regularly to ensure proper airflow.

For furnace maintenance in Mount Horeb, call the team at JW Brager Heating and Cooling. Our specialists will get your system in excellent working order!

Seal air leaks

Locate and fill in any air leaks in your home. Typical spots for leaks including windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Closing these gaps prevents warm air from leaking out of your home, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a comfy temperature.

Update your HVAC system

If your heating system is old, inefficient or just isn’t able to keep your home as warm as you desire, furnace replacement may be a good long-term decision. Contemporary furnaces are extremely efficient, which can considerably lower your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re considering upgrading to a new heating system, call the specialists at JW Brager Heating and Cooling. We’re known for knowledgeable furnace installation in Mount Horeb and will help you pick a unit that’s ideal for your home! Call 608-447-0555 today to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate!