As winter draws near and the temperature dips, finding ways to save money on your power bills becomes a top priority. One of the simplest tips is modifying your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without sacrificing comfort.

With several options and techniques available, you can reduce your heating costs while still keeping your home cozy throughout the chilly season. Irrespective of whether you prefer a programmable thermostat or manual device, there are plenty of ways to find the perfect balance between warmth and savings.

In general, a good rule is the lower the temperature within your home and the less difference there is between the air inside your home and the outdoor temperature, the more money you will save on your HVAC bills.

Money-Saving Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home

When you’re going to be home, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) suggests putting 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 decreasing your thermostat 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. This way, you’re not throwing away money heating your home while you’re not there.

Industry professionals say, if you are going on vacation or will be gone an extended period of time, you can adjust 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, raise the temperature gradually. 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 Asleep

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 reports somewhere between 66 and 70 degrees is the optimal temperature range for good sleep.

Other Methods to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter

There are several other techniques you can employ so you consume less energy this winter while you heat your home. They include:

Check your insulation levels

Insulate doors, windows and walls to cut down on drafts, keep warm air inside and prevent heat loss. This will minimize the pressure on your heating equipment and save energy.

Install a programmable thermostat

Install a programmable thermostat to manage the temperature in your home effectively. Set lower temperatures when you're not home or asleep and increase them only when needed.

For even more savings, set up a smart thermostat that can perceive when you are in or out and modify the temperature accordingly. To learn more about these gadgets or for smart thermostat installation in Northglenn, consult with the skilled technicians at Northglenn Heating & Air Conditioning. We can tell you how smart thermostats can help your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.

H3: Schedule furnace maintenance:

Plan regular maintenance for your heating system. A well-maintained heating system 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 Northglenn, call the team at Northglenn Heating & Air Conditioning. Our specialists will get your system in top shape!

Seal air leaks

Detect and close off any air leaks in your home. Typical places for leaks are windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Closing these gaps prevents warm air from seeping out, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a comfy temperature.

Improve your HVAC system

If your heating system is old, inefficient or just isn’t able to keep your home as warm as you want, furnace replacement may be a good long-term decision. Modern day furnaces are highly efficient, which can significantly decrease your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re contemplating upgrading to a new heating system, phone the professionals at Northglenn Heating & Air Conditioning. We’re noted for experienced furnace installation in Northglenn and will help you find a unit that’s perfect for your home! Call 303-452-4146 today to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate!