As winter gets closer and the temperature dips, finding ways to save money on your power bills becomes a top priority. One of the most effective strategies is modifying your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without compromising comfort.

With several options and techniques available, you can lower your heating costs while still making your home cozy throughout the chilly season. 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 of thumb is the lower the temperature within 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 your monthly energy costs.

Ideal 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 lots of families comfy, 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 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 adjust your thermostat as low as 50 degrees. That 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, increase the temperature gradually. 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.

Recommended Thermostat Settings While You Are in Bed for The Night

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 states somewhere between 66 and 70 degrees is the ideal temperature range for great sleep.

More Techniques 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:

Examine your insulation levels

Insulate doors, windows and walls to minimize drafts, keep warm air inside and counter heat loss. This will decrease the pressure on your HVAC system and save energy.

Install a programmable thermostat

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

For even more savings, install a smart thermostat that can sense when you are in or out and adjust the temperature appropriately. To learn more about these gadgets or for smart thermostat installation in Circleville, contact the skilled technicians at Stephen Hurst Pack Heating and Cooling. We can explain how smart thermostats can help your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.

H3: Schedule furnace maintenance:

Schedule regular maintenance for your heating system. A well-maintained system operates more efficiently, decreasing energy consumption and probably avoiding costly repairs. Clean or exchange air filters on a regular basis to ensure proper airflow.

For furnace maintenance in Circleville, call the team at Stephen Hurst Pack Heating and Cooling. Our specialists will get your system in excellent working order!

Seal air leaks

Detect and fill in any air leaks in your home. Typical sites for leaks tend to be windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Closing these gaps stops warm air from seeping out, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a cozy temperature.

Improve your HVAC system

If your furnace 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 option. Contemporary furnaces are extremely efficient, which can considerably reduce your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re contemplating getting a new heating system, contact the pros at Stephen Hurst Pack Heating and Cooling. We’re recognized for skilled furnace installation in Circleville and will help you pick a unit that’s well suited for your home! Call 740-474-5940 today to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation estimate!