Adjust Your Thermostat and Save Money During Winter Weather

As winter draws near and the temperature drops, finding ways to save money on your energy bills becomes a top priority. One of the simplest techniques is changing your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without compromising comfort.

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

In general, 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 outside temperature, the more money you will save on heating.

Ideal Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home

When you’re going to be 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 comfy, but also low enough to be energy efficient.

Effective Temperature Settings While You Going to Be Out of Your 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. By using this method, you’re not needlessly spending money heating your home while you’re not there.

Authorities say, if you are going on vacation or will be gone an extended period of time, you can set 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 arrive home, increase the temperature bit by bit. That will keep your heating system from running too hard, which could happen if you raise the temperature on your thermostat quite high right away.

Cost-Efficient Thermostat Settings While You Are in Bed for The Night

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

Other Techniques to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter

There are a number of other techniques you can utilize to consume less energy this winter while you heat your home. They include:

Check your insulation levels

Insulate doors, windows and walls to reduce drafts, keep warm air inside and prevent heat loss. This will decrease the stress on your HVAC system and save energy.

Install a programmable thermostat

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

For even more savings, buy a smart thermostat that can perceive when you are in or out and modify the temperature accordingly. To learn more about these products or for smart thermostat installation in Marshalltown, contact the skilled technicians at B & G HVAC. We can explain how smart thermostats can help your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.

H3: Arrange furnace maintenance:

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

For furnace maintenance in Marshalltown, call the team at B & G HVAC. Our trained technicians will get your system in excellent working order!

Seal air leaks

Locate and close off any air leaks in your home. Common sites for leaks including windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Plugging these gaps prevents warm air from seeping out, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Upgrade your HVAC system

If your HVAC equipment is old, inefficient or just isn’t able to keep your home as warm as you desire, furnace replacement may be a good long-term decision. Today’s furnaces are very efficient, which can significantly decrease your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re contemplating getting a new heating system, phone the professionals at B & G HVAC. We’re known for skilled furnace installation in Marshalltown and will help you pick a unit that’s perfect for your home! Call 641-649-4649 today to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate!