As winter approaches and the temperature dips, finding ways to save money on your power bills becomes a top priority. One of the simplest tips is adjusting your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without compromising comfort.
With many options and techniques available, homeowners can reduce your heating costs while still trying to keep your home cozy throughout the chilly season. Regardless of 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 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 heating.
Ideal Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home
When you’re at 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 the majority of families comfy, but also low enough to be energy efficient.
Effective Temperature Settings While You Not at Home
The DOE estimates you can save up to 10% on your energy 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 set 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 while you are away.
When you return to your home, turn up the temperature little by little. That will keep your heating system from running too hard, which it could if you raise the temperature on your thermostat quite high right away.
Suggested Thermostat Settings While You Are Asleep
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 says 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 a number of other ways you can utilize to consume less energy this winter while you heat your home. They include:
Evaluate your insulation levels
Insulate doors, windows and walls to cut down on drafts, keep warm air inside and prevent heat loss. This will decrease the workload on your furnace and save energy.
Buy a programmable thermostat
Put in a programmable thermostat to regulate the temperature in your home efficiently. Set lower temperatures when you're out of your home or asleep and increase them only when required.
For even more savings, install a smart thermostat that can sense when you are in or out and adjust the temperature accordingly. To learn more about these gadgets or for smart thermostat installation in Michigan City, contact the skilled technicians at Paniccia Heating & Cooling. We can explain how smart thermostats can help your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.
H3: Schedule furnace maintenance:
Plan to hire someone to do regular maintenance for your heating and cooling system. A well-maintained heating system runs more efficiently, decreasing energy consumption and probably avoiding costly repairs. Clean or exchange air filters routinely to assure proper airflow.
For furnace maintenance in Michigan City, call the team at Paniccia Heating & Cooling. We will get your system in top shape!
Seal air leaks
Locate and close off any air leaks in your home. Common sites for leaks including windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Plugging these gaps blocks warm air from leaking out of your home, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Upgrade your HVAC system
If your heating system 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 option. Contemporary furnaces are very efficient, which can significantly decrease your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.
If you’re interested in investing in a new heating system, phone the professionals at Paniccia Heating & Cooling. We’re recognized for experienced furnace installation in Michigan City and will help you choose a unit that’s perfect for your home! Call 219-872-2198 today to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate!