Guide to Energy-Efficient Thermostat Settings in Winter in Abilene

It’s winter! And that means low temperatures and big heating costs. If you’re looking to cut your energy bills this season without compromising comfort, this guide is for you. We’ll review how to make sure your Abilene home stays cozy without costing you an arm and a leg. With these ideas, it’ll be easy to keep cozy all winter long!

Let’s review what temperature to set your thermostat in winter:

While you’re home during the day.
While sleeping at night.
While you’re away.

We’ll also go over how installing a smart thermostat can reduce heating bills, as well as a few of our top energy-saving tips for chilly weather.

Our Suggestions for Winter Thermostat Settings

You might be wondering if 70 is a good temperature for the winter. It can be, but it also depends on your comfort level and your goals for energy efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), setting your thermostat at 68 is the smartest way to keep heating costs under control.

What Temperature to Set Your Thermostat in Winter During the Day

While Home

The DOE recommends 68 degrees during the day. If you’re feeling too cold, there are a couple of other ways you can stay comfortable.

Set your ceiling fan in reverse when you’re in a room. This redistributes hot air that gathers near the ceiling.
Select energy-efficient window treatments, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters. If your home has old or drafty windows, installing plastic sheeting or window blankets offers an additional barrier against the cold.
Make the most of natural warmth by opening south-facing window treatments during the day. Don’t forget to shut them at night to minimize heat loss.

While Gone

If it dips under 30 degrees, setting your thermostat between 64 and 65 degrees is a smart choice while gone. Your furnace won’t be pumping a lot of heat into a vacant home, but it’ll be easy for the temperature to bounce back when you get back.

You may want to set the thermostat somewhat higher if you have a dog, particularly a puppy, senior dog, small dog or a dog with short hair. Between 66-67 degrees will keep them comfortable and happy.

What Temperature to Set Your Thermostat in Winter at Night

Keeping your bedroom cool can help you sleep better. The National Sleep Foundation recommends a thermostat setting of 64-65 degrees.

That might seem too chilly if you’re used to a higher temperature. If you’re used to sleeping at 68 degrees, try slowly lowering it over the next couple of days and sleep with more blankets or thicker pajamas.

Other Ways to Lower Energy Costs in the Winter

Keeping your thermostat at the ideal temperature in the winter is a good start with keeping energy costs down. But there are a few other things you can do to trim your bill.

Upgrade your thermostat. Programmable thermostats are inexpensive, but most households don’t have them set up properly. If yours is constantly on “hold,” you’re missing out on energy savings. While you can get your schedule set up, it can be a lengthy process, especially if your schedule varies from day to day. A smart thermostat can eliminate all that work because it can create an energy-efficient heating schedule based on your routine and temperature preferences. Find out how you can get a free smart thermostat (or one at a greatly reduced price)!
Change your furnace air filter regularly. A dirty air filter can cause a lot of problems for your furnace, including making it consume more energy or even causing it to break down. That’s why it’s important to change yours every 30 days if you use a flat filter. Or every three months if you use a pleated filter. If you have pets or someone in your home has allergies or asthma, you may want to change your filter more often.
Add more insulation. Your home is likely among the 90% in the U.S. that don’t have enough attic insulation. Homes in northern climates need 16-18″, while those in southern climates require 13-14″.
Get a new furnace. If your HVAC system is nearly 15 years old, it’s time to start thinking about furnace installation. Installing an ENERGY STAR® furnace can keep you comfier while keeping heating costs low. A new heating system is a big investment, but Abilene Air-Tech Inc helps make it more budget friendly through rebates, special offers and financing for qualified customers.

Whenever you have concerns about what is the best temperature to set your thermostat at, energy efficiency during winter or any other home comfort questions, Abilene Air-Tech Inc is here to help you. We’re the heating and cooling company your friends and neighbours have trusted since 1986. Call us at (325) 692-5850 to request your appointment today.