Set Your Thermostat and Save Money During Winter

As winter approaches and the temperature dips, finding ways to save money on your power bills becomes a top priority. One of the best ways is changing your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without losing comfort.

With many options and techniques available, homeowners can reduce your heating costs while still trying to keep your home cozy throughout the chilly season. Regardless of whether you prefer a programmable thermostat or manual device, there are many ways to find the appropriate balance between warmth and savings.

As a whole, a good guideline 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 heating.

Money-Saving Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home

When you’re around your home, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recommends setting 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 Not at Home

The DOE reports you can save up to 10% on your heating costs by turning down 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.

Authorities 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. This will be warm enough it 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, raise the temperature gradually. That will keep your heating system from performing too hard, which could happen if you raise the temperature on your thermostat really high right away.

Suggested Thermostat Settings While You Are Asleep

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 ideal temperature range for great sleep.

Additional Methods to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter

There are several other approaches 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 minimize drafts, keep warm air inside and counter heat loss. This will minimize the workload on your heating equipment and save energy.

Install a programmable thermostat

Purchase a programmable thermostat to regulate the temperature in your home effortlessly. 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 perceive when you are in or out and adjust the temperature appropriately. To learn more about these gadgets or for smart thermostat installation in Erie, contact the skilled technicians at Patterson & Stirling. We can explain how smart thermostats can help your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.

H3: Schedule furnace maintenance:

Schedule regular maintenance for your heating and cooling system. A well-maintained furnace operates more efficiently, decreasing energy consumption and possibly avoiding costly repairs. Clean or exchange air filters regularly to make sure your unit has proper airflow.

For furnace maintenance in Erie, call the team at Patterson & Stirling. We will get your system in top shape!

Seal air leaks

Find and close off any air leaks in your home. Typical places for leaks tend to be windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Closing these gaps prevents warm air from leaking out of your home, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Update your HVAC system

If your HVAC equipment is old, inefficient or just isn’t able to keep your home as warm as you need, furnace replacement may be a smart long-term solution. Modern day furnaces are very efficient, which can dramatically reduce your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re contemplating getting a new heating system, phone the professionals at Patterson & Stirling. We’re noted for knowledgeable furnace installation in Erie and will help you choose a unit that’s well suited for your home! Call 814-308-0416 today to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation estimate!