It's winter! And that means low temperatures and big heating costs. If you're looking to cut your energy bills this season without compromising comfort, this guide is for you. We’ll review how to make sure your Siloam Springs home stays warm without costing you an arm and a leg. With these ideas, it'll be easy to keep cozy all winter long!
Let’s go over 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 go over how getting a smart thermostat can keep heating bills low, as well as a few of our favorite energy-saving tips for cold 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 varies based 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 cold, there are a couple of other ways you can stay comfortable.
- Run your ceiling fan in reverse when you’re in a room. This redistributes warm air that gathers near the ceiling.
- Choose energy-efficient window treatments, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters. If your home has old or drafty windows, putting up plastic sheeting or window blankets provides an additional barrier against the cold.
- Maximize natural warmth by opening south-facing window treatments during daytime. Don’t forget to close them at night to reduce heat loss.
While Gone
If it dips under 30 degrees, setting your thermostat between 64 and 65 degrees is a sensible choice while away. Your furnace won’t be pumping a lot of heat into a vacant home, but it’ll be easy for the temperature to bounce back when you get back.
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 cozy and happy.
What Temperature to Set Your Thermostat in Winter at Night
Keeping your bedroom cool can help you get a better night’s sleep. The National Sleep Foundation advises a thermostat setting of 64-65 degrees.
That might seem too cold if you’re used to a higher temperature. If you’re used to sleeping at 68 degrees, try progressively lowering it over the next couple of days and sleep with more blankets or warmer pajamas.
Other Ways to Reduce Energy Costs in the Winter
Keeping your thermostat at the ideal temperature in the winter is a good first step to keeping energy costs down. But there are a few other things you can do to cut your bill.
- Get a new thermostat. Programmable thermostats are inexpensive, but most households don’t have them set up properly. If yours is always on “hold,” you’re missing out on energy savings. While you can program yours, it can be a lengthy process, especially if your schedule fluctuates from day to day. A smart thermostat can eliminate all those steps because it can develop an energy-efficient heating schedule based on your routine and temperature preferences. Find out how you can get a free smart thermostat (or one at a greatly reduced price)!
- Replace your furnace air filter often. A dirty air filter can cause 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 change yours every 30 days if you use a flat filter. Or every 90 days if you use a pleated filter. If you have pets or someone in your home suffers from allergies or asthma, you may want to change your filter more frequently.
- Add extra insulation. Your home is probably among the 90% in the U.S. that don’t have adequate attic insulation. Homes in northern climates require 16-18", while those in southern climates need 13-14".
- Install a new furnace. If your HVAC system is nearly 15 years old, it’s time to start thinking about furnace installation. Installing an ENERGY STAR® furnace can keep you comfier while keeping heating costs low. A new heating system is a big investment, but Siloam Springs Heating & AC helps make it more budget friendly through rebates, special offers and financing for qualified customers.
Whenever you have questions about what is the best temperature to set your thermostat at, energy efficiency during cold weather or any other home comfort issues, Siloam Springs Heating & AC is here to help you. We’re the heating and cooling company your friends and neighbors have depended on since 1992. Call us at 479-308-8176 to request your appointment now.