As winter draws near and the temperature dips, finding ways to save money on your heating bills becomes a top priority. One of the most effective techniques is changing your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without compromising comfort.
With numerous options and techniques available, homeowners 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 perfect balance between warmth and savings.
As a whole, a good guideline is the lower the temperature inside 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.
Money-Saving Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home
When you’re going to be home, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) suggests 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 Are Away
The DOE reports you can save up to 10% on your heating costs by turning down 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.
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 get back to your house, increase the temperature gradually. 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.
Suggested Thermostat Settings While You Are Asleep
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 reports somewhere between 66 and 70 degrees is the ideal temperature range for great sleep.
Additional Ways to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter
There are several other techniques you can employ so you 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 prevent heat loss. This will decrease the stress on your HVAC system and save energy.
Install a programmable thermostat
Purchase a programmable thermostat to regulate 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, purchase a smart thermostat that can perceive when you are in or out and adjust the temperature appropriately. To learn more about these products or for smart thermostat installation in Des Moines, consult with the skilled technicians at Heartland Heating & Cooling. We can provide you with information about how smart thermostats can benefit your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.
H3: Schedule furnace maintenance:
Schedule regular maintenance for your HVAC system. A well-maintained furnace runs more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and probably avoiding costly repairs. Clean or change air filters on a regular basis to make sure your unit has proper airflow.
For furnace maintenance in Des Moines, call the team at Heartland Heating & Cooling. Our trained technicians will get your system in peak condition!
Seal air leaks
Find and seal any air leaks in your home. Typical places for leaks including windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Sealing these gaps blocks warm air from seeping out, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a comfy 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 smart long-term solution. Modern day furnaces are very efficient, which can notably reduce your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.
If you’re interested in upgrading to a new heating system, phone the specialists at Heartland Heating & Cooling. We’re recognized for knowledgeable furnace installation in Des Moines and will help you choose a unit that’s well suited for your home! Call 515-344-3579 today to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation estimate!