Adjust Your Thermostat and Save Money During Winter

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

With multiple options and techniques available, homeowners can lower your heating costs while still keeping 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 ideal balance between warmth and savings.

Overall, a good rule is the lower the temperature within your home and the less difference there is between the air inside your home and the outside temperature, the more money you will save on your monthly energy costs.

Ideal Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home

When you’re going to be home, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) advises dialing your thermostat to between 68°F and 70°F in the winter. That’s warm enough to keep most families comfy, but also low enough to be energy efficient.

Effective Temperature Settings While You Not at Home

The DOE estimates you can save approximately 10% on your heating 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.

Experts 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. Doing this will keep your furnace running so you don’t have any frozen or burst pipes waiting for you when you get home.

When you get back to your house, raise the temperature little by little. That will keep your heating system from running too hard, which it could if you raise the temperature on your thermostat really high right away.

Cost-Efficient Thermostat Settings While You Are Asleep

The nice thing about sleep-time thermostat settings in the winter is that people get good sleep when it’s a little colder. The National Sleep Foundation reports somewhere between 66 and 70 degrees is the ideal temperature range for good 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:

Evaluate your insulation levels

Insulate doors, windows and walls to cut down on drafts, keep warm air inside and avoid heat loss. This will limit the pressure on your HVAC system and save energy.

Buy a programmable thermostat

Purchase a programmable thermostat to control the temperature in your home conveniently. Set lower temperatures when you're out of your home or asleep and increase them only when needed.

For even more savings, purchase a smart thermostat that can detect when you are in or out and change the temperature correctly. To learn more about these products or for smart thermostat installation in Fort Lauderdale, consult with the skilled technicians at Solar Air Inc.. We can explain how smart thermostats can improve your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.

H3: Plan furnace maintenance:

Plan to hire someone to do regular maintenance for your heating and cooling system. A well-maintained furnace functions more efficiently, decreasing energy consumption and possibly avoiding costly repairs. Clean or replace air filters routinely to assure proper airflow.

For furnace maintenance in Fort Lauderdale, call the team at Solar Air Inc.. Our specialists will get your system in excellent working order!

Seal air leaks

Detect and seal any air leaks in your home. Frequent sites for leaks including windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Closing these gaps stops warm air from seeping out, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a sufficient temperature.

Upgrade your HVAC system

If your furnace is old, inefficient or just isn’t able to keep your home as warm as you want, furnace replacement may be an ideal long-term decision. Modern furnaces are very efficient, which can dramatically decrease your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re considering getting a new heating system, call the specialists at Solar Air Inc.. We’re recognized for skilled furnace installation in Fort Lauderdale and will help you find a unit that’s well suited for your home! Call 954-320-7398 today to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate!