As winter gets closer and the temperature drops, 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, it's possible to lower your heating costs while still trying to keep your home cozy throughout the chilly season. Irrespective of whether you prefer a programmable thermostat or manual device, there are several ways to find the appropriate balance between warmth and savings.

Overall, a good rule is the lower the temperature inside your home and the less difference there is between the air inside your home and the outside temperature, the more money you will save on heating.

Best Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home

When you’re around your home, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recommends 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 Are Away

The DOE reports you can save as much as 10% on your heating costs by lowering your thermostat 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. By doing this, you’re not needlessly spending money heating your home while you’re not there.

Authorities say, if you are going on vacation or will be gone a prolonged period of time, you can set your thermostat as low as 50 degrees. This will be warm enough it 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, increase the temperature gradually. That will keep your heating system from working too hard, which it could 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 nice thing 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 ideal temperature range for good sleep.

Other Methods to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter

There are a number of other ways 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 prevent heat loss. This will decrease the stress on your HVAC system and save energy.

Install a programmable thermostat

Purchase a programmable thermostat to regulate the temperature in your home efficiently. Set lower temperatures when you're away or asleep and increase them only when required.

For even more savings, set up a smart thermostat that can perceive when you are in or out and change the temperature accordingly. To learn more about these systems or for smart thermostat installation in Port Clinton, get a hold of the skilled technicians at Ohler & Holzhauer Inc.. We can tell you 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 operates more efficiently, lowering energy consumption and possibly avoiding costly repairs. Clean or replace air filters on a regular basis to make sure your unit has proper airflow.

For furnace maintenance in Port Clinton, call the team at Ohler & Holzhauer Inc.. Our specialists will get your system in top shape!

Seal air leaks

Detect and close off any air leaks in your home. Typical spots for leaks are windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Plugging these gaps blocks warm air from escaping, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Update your HVAC system

If your heating system is old, inefficient or just isn’t able to keep your home as warm as you need, furnace replacement may be a smart long-term option. Today’s furnaces are very efficient, which can dramatically lower your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re thinking about getting a new heating system, contact the pros at Ohler & Holzhauer Inc.. We’re recognized for knowledgeable furnace installation in Port Clinton and will help you find a unit that’s well suited for your home! Call 419-732-2121 today to schedule a no-cost, no-obligation estimate!