How to Use Your Thermostat to Save Money During Winter

As winter draws near and the temperature dips, finding ways to save money on your heating bills becomes a top priority. One of the most effective techniques is changing your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without compromising comfort.

With numerous options and techniques available, it's possible to 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 many ways to find the ideal balance between warmth and savings.

Overall, a good rule of thumb is the lower the temperature in your home and the less difference there is between the air inside your home and the exterior temperature, the more money you will save on your monthly energy costs.

Money-Saving Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home

When you’re around your 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 comfy, 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 as much as 10% on your home heating costs by decreasing 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.

Experts say, if you are going on vacation or will be gone a long period of time, you can put your thermostat as low as 50 degrees. Doing this will keep your furnace running so you don’t have any frozen or burst pipes waiting for you when you get home.

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

Recommended 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 says somewhere between 66 and 70 degrees is the optimal temperature range for good sleep.

Additional Tactics to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter

There are several other techniques you can employ so you consume less energy this winter while you heat your home. They include:

Check your insulation levels

Insulate doors, windows and walls to reduce drafts, keep warm air inside and avoid heat loss. This will minimize the pressure on your heating equipment and save energy.

Buy a programmable thermostat

Put in a programmable thermostat to regulate the temperature in your home efficiently. Set lower temperatures when you're out of your home or asleep and increase them only when necessary.

For even more savings, install a smart thermostat that can detect when you are in or out and adjust the temperature correctly. To learn more about these devices or for smart thermostat installation in Pella, contact the skilled technicians at Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating. We can explain how smart thermostats can benefit your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.

H3: Schedule furnace maintenance:

Schedule regular maintenance for your HVAC system. A well-maintained heating system functions more efficiently, lowering energy consumption and probably avoiding costly repairs. Clean or replace air filters on a regular basis to assure proper airflow.

For furnace maintenance in Pella, call the team at Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating. We will get your system in peak condition!

Seal air leaks

Find and seal any air leaks in your home. Common spots for leaks including windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Sealing these gaps prevents warm air from escaping, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a sufficient temperature.

Update your HVAC system

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

If you’re interested in upgrading to a new heating system, phone the professionals at Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating. We’re recognized for skilled furnace installation in Pella and will help you select a unit that’s well suited for your home! Call 641-628-3621 today to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate!