It's winter! And that means low temperatures and big heating costs. If you're looking to reduce your energy bills this season without sacrificing comfort, this guide is for you. We’ll review how to make sure your Lafayette home stays cozy without costing you a fortune. With these ideas, it'll be easy to keep warm 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 away.
We’ll also review how getting a smart thermostat can reduce heating bills, as well as a few of our favorite energy-saving tips for chilly weather.
Our Suggestions 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 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 chilly, 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 warm air that gathers near the ceiling.
- Choose energy-efficient window treatments, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters. If your home has old or drafty windows, installing plastic sheeting or window blankets provides an additional barrier against the cold.
- Make the most of natural warmth by opening south-facing window treatments during the day. Don’t forget to close them at night to minimize heat loss.
While Gone
If it dips under 30 degrees, setting your thermostat between 64 and 65 degrees is a wise choice while away. Your furnace won’t be heating a vacant 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, 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 chilly if you’re used to a higher temperature. If you’re used to sleeping at 68 degrees, try slowly lowering it over the next few days and sleep with more blankets or warmer pajamas.
Other Ways to Reduce Energy Costs in the Winter
Keeping your thermostat at the ideal temperature in the winter is a good start with 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 correctly. 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 changes from day to day. A smart thermostat can get rid of all those steps 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 price)!
- Change your furnace air filter regularly. A dirty air filter can cause 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 change yours every month 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 suffers from allergies or asthma, you may want to replace your filter more often.
- Add extra insulation. Your home is likely among the 90% in the U.S. that don’t have enough attic insulation. Homes in northern climates need 16-18", while those in southern climates need 13-14".
- Get a new furnace. If your HVAC system is nearly 15 years old, it’s time to start thinking about furnace installation. Upgrading to an ENERGY STAR® furnace can keep you comfier while keeping heating costs down. A new heating system is a big investment, but AC Sales 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 cold weather or any other home comfort issues, AC Sales is here to help you. We’re the heating and cooling company your friends and neighbors have depended on since . Call us at (337) 234-2345 to schedule your appointment today.
