It's winter! And that means low temperatures and big heating costs. If you're looking to cut your energy bills this season without sacrificing comfort, this guide is for you. We’ll review how to make sure your McKinney and Frisco home stays cozy without costing you an arm and a leg. With these ideas, it'll be easy to keep cozy all winter long!
Let’s review 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 getting a smart thermostat can reduce heating bills, as well as a few of our top energy-saving tips for chilly weather.
Our Suggestions for Winter Thermostat Settings
You might be wondering if 70 is a good temperature for the winter. It can be, but it also depends 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 smartest 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 daytime. If you’re feeling too cold, there are a couple of other ways you can stay comfortable.
- Run your ceiling fan in reverse when you’re in a room. This redistributes hot air that collects near the ceiling.
- Choose 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 extra barrier against the cold.
- Maximize natural warmth by opening south-facing window treatments during the day. Don’t forget to shut them at night to minimize heat loss.
While Gone
If it dips below 30 degrees, setting your thermostat around 64-65 degrees is a sensible choice while away. Your furnace won’t be pumping a lot of heat into an empty home, but it’ll be easy for the temperature to bounce back when you return.
You may want to set the thermostat somewhat higher if you have a dog, particularly a puppy, senior dog, small dog or a dog with short hair. Between 66-67 degrees will keep them comfortable 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 advises a thermostat setting of 64-65 degrees.
That might seem too cold if you’re accustomed to a warmer temperature. If you’re used to sleeping at 68 degrees, try gradually lowering it over the next few days and sleep with more blankets or warmer pajamas.
Additional to Reduce Energy Bills During Winter
Keeping your thermostat at the ideal temperature in the winter is a good first step to keeping energy costs low. But there are a few other steps you can take to trim your bill.
- Upgrade your thermostat. Programmable thermostats are cheap, but most households don’t have them set up properly. If yours is always on “hold,” you’re missing out on energy savings. While you can get your schedule set up, it can be a lengthy process, especially if your schedule varies from day to day. A smart thermostat can eliminate all that work because it can create 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 cost)!
- Replace your furnace air filter regularly. A dirty air filter can cause a lot of problems for your furnace, including making it consume more energy or even causing it to malfunction. That’s why it’s important to replace yours every 30 days if you use a flat filter. Or every three months 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 frequently.
- Add more insulation. Your home is likely among the 90% in the U.S. that don’t have enough 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 nearly 15 years old, it’s time to start thinking about furnace installation. Installing an ENERGY STAR® furnace can keep you comfier while keeping heating costs low. A new heating system is a big investment, but Bell Mechanical Services helps make it more affordable through rebates, special offers and financing for qualified customers.
Whenever you have concerns about what the best temperature is to set your thermostat to, energy efficiency during cold weather or any other home comfort issues, Bell Mechanical Services is here to assist you. We’re the heating and cooling company your friends and neighbors have trusted since year. Call us at 888-863-0560 to request your appointment now.