Set Your Thermostat and Save Money During Winter

As winter draws near and the temperature falls, finding ways to save money on your heating bills becomes a top priority. One of the simplest techniques 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 trying to keep your home cozy throughout the chilly season. Whether you prefer a programmable thermostat or manual device, there are plenty of ways to find the appropriate balance between warmth and savings.

In general, a good rule is the lower the temperature in 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 going to be home, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) suggests dialing your thermostat to between 68°F and 70°F in the winter. That’s warm enough to keep most families comfortable, but also low enough to be energy efficient.

Effective Temperature Settings While You Going to Be Out of Your Home

The DOE reports you can save approximately 10% on your HVAC costs by lowering 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 a prolonged period of time, you can set your thermostat as low as 50 degrees. That will keep your furnace running so you don’t have any frozen or burst pipes cause damage to your home while you're gone.

When you return to your home, increase the temperature bit by bit. That will keep your heating system from running too hard, which could happen if you raise the temperature on your thermostat quite high right away.

Suggested Thermostat Settings While You Are Sleeping

The nice thing about sleep-time thermostat settings in the winter is that people generally sleep well when it’s a little colder. The National Sleep Foundation suggests somewhere between 66 and 70 degrees is the best temperature range for great sleep.

Additional Techniques to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter

There are a number of other ways 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 counter heat loss. This will decrease the workload on your HVAC system and save energy.

Buy a programmable thermostat

Install a programmable thermostat to control the temperature in your home conveniently. Set lower temperatures when you're out of your home or asleep and increase them only when needed.

For even more savings, buy a smart thermostat that can perceive when you are in or out and adjust the temperature appropriately. To learn more about these systems or for smart thermostat installation in Crystal and Twin Cities, consult with the skilled technicians at GV Heating & Air. We can tell you how smart thermostats can improve your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.

H3: Schedule furnace maintenance:

Schedule regular maintenance for your HVAC system. A well-maintained furnace functions more efficiently, decreasing energy consumption and potentially avoiding costly repairs. Clean or exchange air filters on a regular basis to make sure your unit has proper airflow.

For furnace maintenance in Crystal and Twin Cities, call the team at GV Heating & Air. Our trained technicians will get your system in top shape!

Seal air leaks

Find and fill in any air leaks in your home. Frequent sites for leaks are windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Closing these gaps stops warm air from leaking out of your home, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a comfy 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. Today’s furnaces are very efficient, which can significantly lower your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re interested in upgrading to a new heating system, call the pros at GV Heating & Air. We’re noted for experienced furnace installation in Crystal and Twin Cities and will help you find a unit that’s ideal for your home! Call 763-535-2000 today to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate!