As winter draws near 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 sacrificing comfort.

With multiple options and techniques available, it's possible to lower 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.

Overall, 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 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) advises dialing 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 Are Away

The DOE estimates you can save up to 10% on your HVAC costs by lowering 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.

Authorities say, if you are going on vacation or will be gone a long period of time, you can put your thermostat as low as 50 degrees. Doing this 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, turn up the temperature bit by bit. That will keep your heating system from working too hard, which could happen if you raise the temperature on your thermostat really 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 states somewhere between 66 and 70 degrees is the best temperature range for good sleep.

More Methods 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:

Examine your insulation levels

Insulate doors, windows and walls to minimize drafts, keep warm air inside and avoid heat loss. This will limit the pressure on your heating equipment and save energy.

Install a programmable thermostat

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

For even more savings, install a smart thermostat that can perceive when you are in or out and change the temperature correctly. To learn more about these devices or for smart thermostat installation in Athol, get a hold of the skilled technicians at Alpine Summit Heating & Cooling. We can explain how smart thermostats can improve your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.

H3: Arrange furnace maintenance:

Plan to hire someone to do regular maintenance for your heating and cooling system. A well-maintained system functions more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and probably avoiding costly repairs. Clean or replace air filters routinely to assure proper airflow.

For furnace maintenance in Athol, call the team at Alpine Summit Heating & Cooling. Our specialists will get your system in top shape!

Seal air leaks

Find and seal any air leaks in your home. Common spots for leaks tend to be windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Closing these gaps blocks warm air from escaping, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Update your HVAC system

If your furnace 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 option. Today’s furnaces are very efficient, which can considerably reduce your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re thinking about investing in a new heating system, phone the specialists at Alpine Summit Heating & Cooling. We’re recognized for skilled furnace installation in Athol and will help you pick a unit that’s ideal for your home! Call 208-561-1226 today to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate!