It's winter! And that means cold temperatures and high heating costs. If you're looking to cut your energy bills this season without compromising comfort, this guide is for you. We’ll discuss how to make sure your Libertyville home stays warm without costing you a fortune. With these tips, it'll be easy to keep warm all winter long!
Let’s go over what temperature to set your thermostat in winter:
- While you’re home during the day.
- While sleeping at night.
- While you’re gone.
We’ll also review how installing a smart thermostat can keep heating bills low, as well as a few of our top energy-saving tips for chilly weather.
Our Recommendations for Winter Thermostat Settings
You might be thinking if 70 is a good temperature for the winter. It can be, but it also varies based on your comfort needs and your goals for energy efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), setting your thermostat at 68 is the best way to keep heating costs down.
What Temperature to Set Your Thermostat in Winter During the Day
While Home
The DOE recommends 68 degrees during the day. If you’re feeling too cold, there are a couple of other ways you can stay comfortable.
- Set your ceiling fan in reverse when you’re in a room. This redistributes warm air that gathers near the ceiling.
- Select energy-efficient window treatments, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters. If your home has old or drafty windows, installing plastic sheeting or window blankets offers an additional barrier against the cold.
- Maximize natural warmth by opening south-facing window treatments during daytime. Don’t forget to shut them at night to minimize heat loss.
While Gone
If it dips below 30 degrees, setting your thermostat between 64 and 65 degrees is a smart choice while gone. Your furnace won’t be heating an empty home, but it’ll be easy for the temperature to recover when you return.
You may want to set the thermostat somewhat higher if you have a dog, especially a puppy, senior dog, small dog or a dog with short hair. Between 66-67 degrees will keep them cozy and happy.
What Temperature to Set Your Thermostat in Winter at Night
Keeping your bedroom cool can help you sleep better. The National Sleep Foundation recommends a thermostat setting of 64-65 degrees.
That might seem too chilly if you’re accustomed to a warmer temperature. If you’re used to sleeping at 68 degrees, try gradually lowering it over the next couple of days and sleep with more blankets or thicker pajamas.
Other Ways to Reduce Energy Costs in the Winter
Keeping your thermostat at the right temperature in the winter is a good first step to keeping energy costs down. But there are a few other steps you can take to cut your bill.
- Upgrade your thermostat. Programmable thermostats are inexpensive, but most households don’t have them set up properly. If yours is always on “hold,” you’re at a disadvantage for energy savings. While you can get your schedule set up, it can be a time-consuming process, especially if your schedule varies from day to day. A smart thermostat can eliminate all those steps because it can develop an energy-efficient heating schedule based on your routine and temperature preferences. Learn how you can get a free smart thermostat (or one at a greatly reduced price)!
- Change your furnace air filter regularly. A dirty air filter can create a lot of problems for your furnace, including making it use more energy or even causing it to break down. That’s why it’s important to replace yours every month if you use a flat filter. Or every 90 days if you use a pleated filter. If you have pets or someone in your home has allergies or asthma, you may want to change your filter more often.
- Add more insulation. Your home is likely among the 90% in the U.S. that don’t have adequate attic insulation. Homes in northern climates require 16-18", while those in southern climates need 13-14".
- Install a new furnace. If your HVAC system is close to 15 years old, it’s time to start considering furnace installation. Installing an ENERGY STAR® furnace can keep you more comfortable while keeping heating costs low. A new heating system is a major investment, but TopTec Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical helps make it more budget friendly through rebates, special offers and financing for qualified customers.
Whenever you have concerns about what is the best temperature to set your thermostat at, energy efficiency during winter or any other home comfort issues, TopTec Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical is here to help you. We’re the heating and cooling company your friends and neighbors have depended on since 1993. Call us at 847-362-0262 to request your appointment today.