
As winter gets closer and the temperature falls, finding ways to save money on your power bills becomes a top priority. One of the best techniques is adjusting your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without compromising comfort.
With numerous options and techniques available, it's possible to decrease your heating costs while still trying to keep your home cozy throughout the chilly season. Irrespective of 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 exterior 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) advises putting 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 Are Away
The DOE estimates you can save up to 10% on your energy costs by turning down your thermostat 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. By using this method, you’re not throwing away money heating your home while you’re not there.
Experts say, if you are going on vacation or will be gone a prolonged period of time, you can adjust 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 waiting for you when you get home.
When you return to your home, raise the temperature gradually. That will keep your heating system from working too hard, which could be the case if you raise the temperature on your thermostat really high right away.
Cost-Efficient Thermostat Settings While You Are Asleep
The great news about sleep-time thermostat settings in the winter is that people sleep better when it’s a little colder. The National Sleep Foundation says somewhere between 66 and 70 degrees is the ideal temperature range for good sleep.
More Techniques to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter
There are many other ways 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 minimize drafts, keep warm air inside and counter heat loss. This will limit the workload on your furnace and save energy.
Buy a programmable thermostat
Install a programmable thermostat to regulate the temperature in your home effectively. Set lower temperatures when you're away or asleep and increase them only when required.
For even more savings, install a smart thermostat that can perceive when you are in or out and change the temperature accordingly. To learn more about these gadgets or for smart thermostat installation in Croydon, contact the skilled technicians at Indoor Comfort Systems HVAC. We can explain how smart thermostats can improve your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.
H3: Arrange furnace maintenance:
Plan regular maintenance for your heating and cooling system. A well-maintained system runs more efficiently, decreasing energy consumption and potentially avoiding costly repairs. Clean or replace air filters on a regular basis to make sure your unit has proper airflow.
For furnace maintenance in Croydon, call the team at Indoor Comfort Systems HVAC. We will get your system in peak condition!
Seal air leaks
Detect and close off any air leaks in your home. Frequent sites for leaks including windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Plugging these gaps blocks warm air from escaping, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a comfy temperature.
Update your HVAC system
If your heating system is old, inefficient or just isn’t able to keep your home as warm as you need, furnace replacement may be a good long-term decision. Modern furnaces are highly efficient, which can dramatically decrease your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.
If you’re interested in investing in a new heating system, phone the specialists at Indoor Comfort Systems HVAC. We’re known for experienced furnace installation in Croydon and will help you pick a unit that’s well suited for your home! Call 215-741-5505 today to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation estimate!