As winter gets closer and the temperature dips, finding ways to save money on your heating bills becomes a top priority. One of the most effective strategies is modifying your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without losing comfort.

With many options and techniques available, you can lower your heating costs while still keeping your home cozy throughout the chilly season. Irrespective of whether you prefer a programmable thermostat or manual device, there are many ways to find the perfect balance between warmth and savings.

Overall, a good rule of thumb is the lower the temperature inside 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 at 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 most families cozy, but also low enough to be energy efficient.

Effective Temperature Settings While You Are Away

The DOE estimates you can save as much as 10% on your energy costs by decreasing your thermostat 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. That way, you’re not wasting money heating your home while you’re not there.

Industry professionals say, if you are going on vacation or will be gone an extended period of time, you can adjust your thermostat as low as 50 degrees. This will be warm enough it 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 gradually. That will keep your heating system from working too hard, which could happen if you raise the temperature on your thermostat quite high right away.

Recommended Thermostat Settings While You Are Sleeping

The good news 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 optimal temperature range for great sleep.

Additional Techniques to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter

There are several other approaches you can utilize to consume less energy this winter while you heat your home. They include:

Examine your insulation levels

Insulate doors, windows and walls to reduce drafts, keep warm air inside and protect against heat loss. This will limit the stress on your furnace and save energy.

Install a programmable thermostat

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

For even more savings, set up a smart thermostat that can detect when you are in or out and adjust the temperature appropriately. To learn more about these systems or for smart thermostat installation in Norco and surrounding parishes, consult with the skilled technicians at Mayeuxs AC & Heating. We can explain how smart thermostats can help your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.

H3: Plan furnace maintenance:

Plan to hire someone to do regular maintenance for your heating system. A well-maintained system operates more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and probably avoiding costly repairs. Clean or exchange air filters routinely to make sure your unit has proper airflow.

For furnace maintenance in Norco and surrounding parishes, call the team at Mayeuxs AC & Heating. Our trained technicians will get your system in excellent working order!

Seal air leaks

Find and close off any air leaks in your home. Common spots for leaks including 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 cozy 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 a smart long-term option. Modern day 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 professionals at Mayeuxs AC & Heating. We’re recognized for skilled furnace installation in Norco and surrounding parishes and will help you select a unit that’s well suited for your home! Call (985) 764-2426 today to schedule a no-cost, no-obligation estimate!