Save Energy and Money with your Thermostat this Winter
Posted: October 26, 2017 by Andy

As the days get shorter, the leaves start falling, and there's a chill in the air, you're probably realizing what we all do this time of the year: we're about to see colder temperatures. For those who are environmentally friendly or are just looking to save some money, our thermostat tips will help you conserve energy when winter arrives.

Adjust your thermostat to save energy during cold weather

The recommended thermostat temperature setting from Energy.gov is 68°. If this feels colder than you like it, try these tips to increase your comfort.

• Lower the setting by 1° each week as fall temperatures drop. You'll be less likely to notice the change when you ease into it. Do this each week until you reach a comfortable setting.
• Set your thermostat 1° lower than you're used to. You can save some money with just a small temperature change. You might not notice the difference, and even a single degree can lower your heating bill.
• Make use of different levels in your home. Heat rises, so if you have multiple levels in your home, you might modify your routine so that you're spending more time in the upper levels. You'll be able to turn your thermostat down slightly and save energy while maintaining the comfort level you're used to.
• Sleep a little colder. Try setting your thermostat temperature a bit lower while you're asleep. Aim for 3-5° lower, depending on your comfort level. An extra blanket and maybe a little more clothing and you can sleep just as soundly and save on energy costs, too.
• Set temperatures differently when at home and away. This tip will save you money while you make money. Turn down your thermostat while you're working to conserve energy. The Department of Energy says, "You can save as much as 10% per year on heating and cooling by turning your thermostat down 7°-10° for 8 hours a day from its normal setting." Another ideal time for lower temperatures is when you're on vacation. Avoid turning the heat off, though, because this can cause other issues like frozen pipes.

A few minor changes here and there can quickly add up to significant energy savings.

Programmable thermostat tips for cold-weather energy savings

Adding a programmable thermostat is an easy way to rake in the savings. Setting a schedule lets you benefit from the energy savings without needing to make daily adjustments to your thermostat settings. Here are some great tips for setting energy-saving temps this winter.

• Set your thermostat to fit your schedule. It's inefficient to use the same thermostat settings for each day of the week. Most people leave their homes during the week and spend extra time indoors on the weekend. Adjust your programmable thermostat's program to reflect these daily differences so that you aren't wasting energy - and money - when you aren't home.
• Set your thermostat to change temperatures 30 minutes before you need it. If you can sleep comfortably with your thermostat set a little cooler (the recommended sleep temperature is 60-67°), lower your thermostat 30 minutes before your usual bedtime. The same holds true for the 30-minute period before you wake up, leave for work, and come home in the evening. These small adjustments can create significant energy savings.

Additional winter season home tips

In addition to setting your thermostat appropriately, a few extra measures can help your home heat more efficiently, save energy, and help you pocket a few extra bucks.

• Change your furnace filter regularly. This ensures optimum performance of your furnace and allows for better airflow and increased efficiency which you will see in energy savings.
• Upgrade your insulation. Modern insulation uses eco-friendly materials not common in older insulation and is more efficient. The higher its R-value, the better the insulation will hold in the heat.
• Bring on the layers. Add blankets and extra clothing while at home. Experiment with lower temperatures to find your comfort zone.
• Opt for a high-efficiency furnace. If your system is failing or is of advanced age, a wise choice is to go with a high-efficiency model when you upgrade. Modern units consume less energy and will result in utility savings on your monthly bill.

The smart choice is to upgrade to a programmable thermostat as soon as possible. We feature quality units from Aprilaire that are sure to start saving you money right after installation. Mention this article when you call to schedule service and save $25!