As winter gets closer and the temperature dips, finding ways to save money on your energy bills becomes a top priority. One of the most effective techniques is modifying your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without losing comfort.
With many options and techniques available, homeowners can lower 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 appropriate balance between warmth and savings.
Overall, a good rule of thumb is the lower the temperature inside 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 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 Are Away
The DOE reports you can save as much as 10% on your home heating costs by turning down your thermostat 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. This way, you’re not throwing away money heating your home while you’re not there.
Industry professionals say, if you are going on vacation or will be gone a long 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 get back to your house, increase the temperature bit by bit. That will keep your heating system from performing too hard, which could happen if you raise the temperature on your thermostat really high right away.
Cost-Efficient Thermostat Settings While You Are Asleep
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 reports somewhere between 66 and 70 degrees is the best temperature range for good sleep.
Other Methods to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter
There are many other ways 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 protect against heat loss. This will minimize the pressure on your heating equipment and save energy.
Buy a programmable thermostat
Put in a programmable thermostat to manage the temperature in your home conveniently. 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 perceive when you are in or out and adjust the temperature correctly. To learn more about these devices or for smart thermostat installation in Streamwood, get a hold of the skilled technicians at Pure Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning. We can tell you how smart thermostats can improve your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.
H3: Arrange furnace maintenance:
Plan regular maintenance for your HVAC system. A well-maintained system functions more efficiently, decreasing energy consumption and potentially avoiding costly repairs. Clean or replace air filters routinely to assure proper airflow.
For furnace maintenance in Streamwood, call the team at Pure Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning. We will get your system in top shape!
Seal air leaks
Detect and close off any air leaks in your home. Common spots for leaks including windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Plugging these gaps stops warm air from seeping out, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Improve your HVAC system
If your HVAC equipment is old, inefficient or just isn’t able to keep your home as warm as you want, furnace replacement may be a smart long-term option. Modern furnaces are extremely efficient, which can significantly lower your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.
If you’re interested in getting a new heating system, phone the specialists at Pure Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning. We’re noted for skilled furnace installation in Streamwood and will help you choose a unit that’s ideal for your home! Call 630-313-2509 today to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate!