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

With multiple options and techniques available, it's possible to lower your heating costs while still making your home cozy throughout the chilly season. Whether you prefer a programmable thermostat or manual device, there are plenty of ways to find the ideal balance between warmth and savings.

As a whole, a good rule of thumb 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 heating.

Ideal Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home

When you’re going to be home, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) suggests putting your thermostat to between 68°F and 70°F in the winter. That’s warm enough to keep lots of 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 as much as 10% on your heating costs by decreasing your thermostat 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. By doing this, 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, turn up the temperature bit by bit. 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 Sleeping

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

Other Tactics to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter

There are a number of other ways you can employ so you consume less energy this winter while you heat your home. They include:

Examine your insulation levels

Insulate doors, windows and walls to cut down on drafts, keep warm air inside and counter heat loss. This will limit the stress on your furnace and save energy.

Install a programmable thermostat

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

For even more savings, purchase a smart thermostat that can perceive when you are in or out and change the temperature accordingly. To learn more about these devices or for smart thermostat installation in Dresden, consult with the skilled technicians at McFadden Heating & Cooling. We can tell you how smart thermostats can improve your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.

H3: Arrange furnace maintenance:

Plan regular maintenance for your HVAC system. A well-maintained furnace operates more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and possibly avoiding costly repairs. Clean or change air filters on a regular basis to make sure your unit has proper airflow.

For furnace maintenance in Dresden, call the team at McFadden Heating & Cooling. 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 are 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.

Improve your HVAC system

If your heating system is old, inefficient or just isn’t able to keep your home as warm as you want, furnace replacement may be a good long-term solution. Modern day furnaces are extremely efficient, which can considerably reduce your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re considering upgrading to a new heating system, phone the professionals at McFadden Heating & Cooling. We’re known for experienced furnace installation in Dresden and will help you pick a unit that’s perfect for your home! Call 1-866-781-0111 today to schedule a no-cost, no-obligation estimate!