It's winter! And that means low temperatures and high 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 Norco and surrounding parishes 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 keep heating bills low, 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 depends on your comfort level and your goals for energy efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), setting your thermostat at 68 is the best 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.

  • Set your ceiling fan in reverse when you’re in a room. This redistributes hot air that accumulates 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 additional barrier against the cold.
  • Make the most of natural warmth by opening south-facing window treatments during daytime. 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 wise choice while gone. 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 recommends a thermostat setting of 64-65 degrees.

That might seem too chilly if you’re accustomed to a higher temperature. If you’re used to sleeping at 68 degrees, try slowly lowering it over the next couple of days and sleep with more blankets or warmer pajamas.

A Few Other Ways You Can Manage Energy Bills During Winter

Keeping your thermostat at the right temperature in the winter is a good first step to keeping energy costs down. But there are a few other steps you can take to trim your bill.

  • Get a new thermostat. Programmable thermostats are inexpensive, but most households don’t have them set up correctly. If yours is constantly on “hold,” you’re missing out on energy savings. While you can program yours, it can be a time-consuming process, especially if your schedule fluctuates from day to day. A smart thermostat can get rid of all those steps because it can develop 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)!
  • Replace your furnace air filter regularly. A dirty air filter can create 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 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 often.
  • 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 require 13-14".
  • Install a new furnace. If your HVAC system is nearly 15 years old, it’s time to start considering furnace installation. Installing an ENERGY STAR® furnace can keep you comfier while keeping heating costs down. A new heating system is a big investment, but Mayeuxs AC & Heating helps make it more affordable through rebates, special offers and financing for qualified customers.

Whenever you have questions about what the best temperature is to set your thermostat to, energy efficiency during winter or any other home comfort issues, Mayeuxs AC & Heating is here to help you. We’re the heating and cooling company your friends and neighbors have relied on since year. Call us at (985) 764-2426 to schedule your appointment today.