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

With several options and techniques available, homeowners can reduce your heating costs while still keeping 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.

As a whole, a good guideline is the lower the temperature in 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 HVAC bills.

Money-Saving Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home

When you’re around your 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 the majority of families comfy, but also low enough to be energy efficient.

Effective Temperature Settings While You Not at Home

The DOE estimates you can save up to 10% on your home heating costs by decreasing your thermostat 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. By doing this, you’re not wasting money heating your home while you’re not there.

Experts 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. That 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, turn up 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 quite high right away.

Cost-Efficient Thermostat Settings While You Are in Bed for The Night

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 optimal temperature range for good sleep.

Other Techniques to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter

There are many other approaches 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 minimize the pressure on your heating equipment and save energy.

Buy a programmable thermostat

Install a programmable thermostat to manage the temperature in your home conveniently. 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 sense when you are in or out and change the temperature appropriately. To learn more about these products or for smart thermostat installation in Wyandotte, contact the skilled technicians at Gee & Missler Heating & Air Conditioning. We can tell you how smart thermostats can help your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.

H3: Schedule furnace maintenance:

Schedule regular maintenance for your heating and cooling system. A well-maintained furnace operates more efficiently, lowering energy consumption and potentially avoiding costly repairs. Clean or change air filters regularly to make sure your unit has proper airflow.

For furnace maintenance in Wyandotte, call the team at Gee & Missler Heating & Air Conditioning. Our trained technicians will get your system in excellent working order!

Seal air leaks

Detect and fill in any air leaks in your home. Frequent spots for leaks including windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Closing these gaps prevents warm air from leaking out of your home, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a sufficient 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 good long-term decision. Contemporary furnaces are very efficient, which can notably lower your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re contemplating getting a new heating system, call the professionals at Gee & Missler Heating & Air Conditioning. We’re recognized for skilled furnace installation in Wyandotte and will help you find a unit that’s well suited for your home! Call 734-284-1224 today to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate!