As winter gets closer and the temperature drops, finding ways to save money on your power bills becomes a top priority. One of the most effective strategies is adjusting your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without sacrificing comfort.
With several options and techniques available, you can reduce your heating costs while still making your home cozy throughout the chilly season. Regardless of whether you prefer a programmable thermostat or manual device, there are many ways to find the ideal balance between warmth and savings.
Overall, 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 comfortable, but also low enough to be energy efficient.
Effective Temperature Settings While You Not at Home
The DOE reports you can save up to 10% on your energy costs by turning down your thermostat 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. By using this method, 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 waiting for you when you get home.
When you get back to your house, turn up the temperature slowly. That will keep your heating system from performing too hard, which could be the case if you raise the temperature on your thermostat very high right away.
Suggested Thermostat Settings While You Are Sleeping
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 reports somewhere between 66 and 70 degrees is the optimal temperature range for great sleep.
Additional Techniques 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:
Examine your insulation levels
Insulate doors, windows and walls to minimize drafts, keep warm air inside and avoid heat loss. This will minimize the stress on your heating equipment and save energy.
Buy 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 needed.
For even more savings, set up a smart thermostat that can perceive when you are in or out and adjust the temperature correctly. To learn more about these products or for smart thermostat installation in Derby, get a hold of the skilled technicians at Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning. We can tell you how smart thermostats can improve your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.
H3: Plan furnace maintenance:
Plan regular maintenance for your heating and cooling system. A well-maintained furnace functions more efficiently, lowering energy consumption and probably avoiding costly repairs. Clean or change air filters regularly to ensure proper airflow.
For furnace maintenance in Derby, call the team at Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning. We will get your system in peak condition!
Seal air leaks
Find and close off any air leaks in your home. Common sites 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 cozy temperature.
Upgrade 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 good long-term decision. Contemporary furnaces are extremely efficient, which can notably reduce your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.
If you’re considering upgrading to a new heating system, phone the pros at Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning. We’re noted for knowledgeable furnace installation in Derby and will help you find a unit that’s well suited for your home! Call 203-772-8319 today to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation estimate!