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 discuss how to make sure your Corpus Christi 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 Guide 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 needs and your goals for energy efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), setting your thermostat at 68 is the smartest 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 the day. 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 collects near the ceiling.
- Select 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 provides an extra barrier against the cold.
- Make the most of natural warmth by opening south-facing window treatments during the day. 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 away. Your furnace won’t be pumping a lot of heat into a vacant home, but it’ll be easy for the temperature to recover when you get back.
You may want to set the thermostat somewhat higher if you have a dog, especially 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 sleep better. The National Sleep Foundation recommends a thermostat setting of 64-65 degrees.
That might seem too cold if you’re accustomed to a higher temperature. If you’re used to sleeping at 68 degrees, try gradually lowering it over the next couple of days and sleep with more blankets or warmer pajamas.
Additional 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 steps you can take to trim your bill.
- Upgrade your thermostat. Programmable thermostats are inexpensive, but most households don’t have them set up correctly. 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 varies 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)!
- Change your furnace air filter often. 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 90 days 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 frequently.
- Add more 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 require 13-14".
- Install a new furnace. If your HVAC system is close to 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 major investment, but Total Assurance AC & Heating helps make it more budget friendly 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 cold weather or any other home comfort questions, Total Assurance AC & Heating is here to assist you. We’re the heating and cooling company your friends and neighbors have trusted since year. Call us at 361-446-6925 to schedule your appointment now.