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

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

As a whole, a good rule of thumb is the lower the temperature in 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 your monthly energy costs.

Ideal Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home

When you’re at home, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recommends putting your thermostat to between 68°F and 70°F in the winter. That’s warm enough to keep the majority of families cozy, but also low enough to be energy efficient.

Effective Temperature Settings While You Going to Be Out of Your Home

The DOE states you can save approximately 10% on your HVAC costs by lowering your thermostat 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. This way, you’re not needlessly spending money heating your home while you’re not there.

Industry professionals say, if you are going on vacation or will be gone a long period of time, you can set your thermostat as low as 50 degrees. Doing this will keep your furnace running so you don’t have any frozen or burst pipes while you are away.

When you get back to your house, increase 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 quite high right away.

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

The good news 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 ideal temperature range for good sleep.

Additional Techniques to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter

There are several other approaches you can utilize to consume less energy this winter while you heat your home. They include:

Evaluate your insulation levels

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

Set up a programmable thermostat

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

For even more savings, install a smart thermostat that can sense when you are in or out and change the temperature correctly. To learn more about these gadgets or for smart thermostat installation in Marshalltown, consult with the skilled technicians at Kapaun & Brown. We can provide you with information about how smart thermostats can improve your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.

H3: Plan furnace maintenance:

Plan regular maintenance for your heating system. A well-maintained furnace operates more efficiently, decreasing energy consumption and possibly avoiding costly repairs. Clean or change air filters regularly to assure proper airflow.

For furnace maintenance in Marshalltown, call the team at Kapaun & Brown. Our specialists will get your system in top shape!

Seal air leaks

Locate and seal any air leaks in your home. Frequent spots for leaks tend to be windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Plugging these gaps blocks warm air from escaping, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a cozy 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 option. Modern furnaces are extremely efficient, which can significantly lower your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re interested in getting a new heating system, contact the professionals at Kapaun & Brown. We’re recognized for experienced furnace installation in Marshalltown and will help you choose a unit that’s well suited for your home! Call 641-812-2028 today to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation estimate!