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As winter approaches and the temperature dips, finding ways to save money on your energy bills becomes a top priority. One of the simplest ways is modifying your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without losing comfort.
With multiple options and techniques available, it's possible to reduce your heating costs while still making 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.
In general, a good rule 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 heating.
Ideal 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 lots of families comfortable, but also low enough to be energy efficient.
Effective Temperature Settings While You Going to Be Out of Your Home
The DOE reports you can save as much as 10% on your home heating costs by turning down your thermostat 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. This way, you’re not wasting money heating your home while you’re not there.
Authorities say, if you are going on vacation or will be gone a long period of time, you can adjust your thermostat as low as 50 degrees. That will keep your furnace running so you don’t have any frozen or burst pipes while you are away.
When you arrive home, raise the temperature little by little. That will keep your heating system from working too hard, which it could if you raise the temperature on your thermostat quite high right away.
Suggested Thermostat Settings While You Are in Bed for The Night
The good news about sleep-time thermostat settings in the winter is that people get good sleep when it’s a little colder. The National Sleep Foundation suggests somewhere between 66 and 70 degrees is the optimal temperature range for quality sleep.
Other Techniques to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter
There are many 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 cut down on drafts, keep warm air inside and avoid heat loss. This will minimize the pressure on your heating equipment and save energy.
Set up a programmable thermostat
Purchase a programmable thermostat to regulate 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 detect when you are in or out and adjust the temperature correctly. To learn more about these devices or for smart thermostat installation in Ames, contact the skilled technicians at Haselhoff Air Solutions. We can tell you how smart thermostats can benefit your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.
H3: Schedule furnace maintenance:
Plan to hire someone to do regular maintenance for your heating and cooling system. A well-maintained system operates more efficiently, decreasing energy consumption and possibly avoiding costly repairs. Clean or replace air filters on a regular basis to make sure your unit has proper airflow.
For furnace maintenance in Ames, call the team at Haselhoff Air Solutions. We will get your system in peak condition!
Seal air leaks
Detect and close off any air leaks in your home. Typical sites for leaks tend to be windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Plugging these gaps stops warm air from seeping out, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a cozy temperature.
Update 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. Contemporary furnaces are very efficient, which can dramatically lower your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.
If you’re contemplating getting a new heating system, call the pros at Haselhoff Air Solutions. We’re known for skilled furnace installation in Ames and will help you select a unit that’s ideal for your home! Call 515-450-8739 today to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate!