How to Use Your Thermostat to Save Money During the Cold Months

As winter gets closer and the temperature drops, finding ways to save money on your energy bills becomes a top priority. One of the best techniques is adjusting your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without compromising comfort.

With multiple options and techniques available, it's possible to lower your heating costs while still keeping your home cozy throughout the chilly season. Whether you prefer a programmable thermostat or manual device, there are many ways to find the perfect balance between warmth and savings.

As a whole, a good rule of thumb is the lower the temperature within your home and the less difference there is between the air inside your home and the outdoor 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) recommends dialing your thermostat to between 68°F and 70°F in the winter. That’s warm enough to keep the majority of families cozy, but also low enough to be energy efficient.

Effective Temperature Settings While You Not at Home

The DOE estimates you can save up to 10% on your home heating costs by decreasing your thermostat 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. That way, you’re not needlessly spending 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. Doing this will keep your furnace running so you don’t have any frozen or burst pipes while you are away.

When you arrive home, turn up the temperature slowly. That will keep your heating system from working too hard, which could happen if you raise the temperature on your thermostat very high right away.

Cost-Efficient Thermostat Settings While You Are in Bed for The Night

The great news about sleep-time thermostat settings in the winter is that people get good sleep when it’s a little colder. The National Sleep Foundation states somewhere between 66 and 70 degrees is the ideal temperature range for great sleep.

Additional Ways to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter

There are a number of other techniques 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 cut down on drafts, keep warm air inside and prevent heat loss. This will decrease the stress on your HVAC system and save energy.

Buy a programmable thermostat

Put in a programmable thermostat to regulate the temperature in your home effectively. Set lower temperatures when you're away or asleep and increase them only when required.

For even more savings, install a smart thermostat that can sense when you are in or out and modify the temperature correctly. To learn more about these devices or for smart thermostat installation in Holdrege, get a hold of the skilled technicians at Durable Service. We can explain how smart thermostats can improve your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.

H3: Schedule furnace maintenance:

Plan to hire someone to do regular maintenance for your heating system. A well-maintained furnace operates more efficiently, decreasing energy consumption and probably avoiding costly repairs. Clean or change air filters routinely to ensure proper airflow.

For furnace maintenance in Holdrege, call the team at Durable Service. We will get your system in top shape!

Seal air leaks

Find and seal any air leaks in your home. Typical sites for leaks tend to be windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Plugging these gaps stops warm air from leaking out of your home, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a sufficient temperature.

Upgrade your HVAC system

If your heating system is old, inefficient or just isn’t able to keep your home as warm as you desire, furnace replacement may be an ideal long-term option. Modern furnaces are highly efficient, which can considerably lower your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re thinking about getting a new heating system, phone the pros at Durable Service. We’re noted for skilled furnace installation in Holdrege and will help you choose a unit that’s ideal for your home! Call 308-995-8177 today to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation estimate!