As winter approaches and the temperature dips, finding ways to save money on your power bills becomes a top priority. One of the most effective strategies is changing your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without losing comfort.

With numerous 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 several ways to find the ideal balance between warmth and savings.

Overall, 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 exterior temperature, the more money you will save on heating.

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 the majority of families cozy, but also low enough to be energy efficient.

Effective Temperature Settings While You Not at Home

The DOE reports you can save as much as 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 wasting money heating your home while you’re not there.

Experts say, if you are going on vacation or will be gone a long period of time, you can set your thermostat as low as 50 degrees. Doing this will keep your furnace running so you don’t have any frozen or burst pipes while you are away.

When you get back to your house, increase 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 quite high right away.

Recommended 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.

More Ways to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter

There are a number of other techniques you can utilize to consume less energy this winter while you heat your home. They include:

Evaluate your insulation levels

Insulate doors, windows and walls to reduce drafts, keep warm air inside and protect against heat loss. This will limit 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 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 perceive when you are in or out and change the temperature correctly. To learn more about these products or for smart thermostat installation in Muskogee, contact the skilled technicians at Hix Air Conditioning Service, Inc.. 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 heating system. A well-maintained furnace operates more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and potentially avoiding costly repairs. Clean or exchange air filters routinely to assure proper airflow.

For furnace maintenance in Muskogee, call the team at Hix Air Conditioning Service, Inc.. Our specialists will get your system in top shape!

Seal air leaks

Find and seal any air leaks in your home. Typical sites for leaks including windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Sealing these gaps blocks warm air from leaking out of your home, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a cozy temperature.

Upgrade your HVAC system

If your furnace is old, inefficient or just isn’t able to keep your home as warm as you want, furnace replacement may be an ideal long-term decision. Today’s furnaces are extremely efficient, which can notably lower your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re thinking about upgrading to a new heating system, contact the pros at Hix Air Conditioning Service, Inc.. We’re noted for knowledgeable furnace installation in Muskogee and will help you pick a unit that’s ideal for your home! Call 918-682-8238 today to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation estimate!