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 gone.
We’ll also review how getting a smart thermostat can reduce heating bills, as well as a few of our top energy-saving tips for cold weather.
Our Recommendations for Winter Thermostat Settings
You might be wondering if 70 is a good temperature for the winter. It can be, but it also varies based 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 best 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 daytime. If you’re feeling too chilly, 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 warm air that accumulates near the ceiling.
- Select energy-efficient window treatments, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters. If your home has old or drafty windows, installing plastic sheeting or window blankets provides an additional barrier against the cold.
- Maximize natural warmth by opening south-facing window treatments during the day. Don’t forget to close them at night to reduce heat loss.
While Gone
If it dips under 30 degrees, setting your thermostat between 64 and 65 degrees is a sensible choice while gone. Your furnace won’t be heating a vacant home, but it’ll be easy for the temperature to recover when you get back.
You may want to set the thermostat somewhat higher if you have a dog, especially 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 get a better night’s sleep. The National Sleep Foundation advises a thermostat setting of 64-65 degrees.
That might seem too chilly if you’re accustomed to a warmer temperature. If you’re used to sleeping at 68 degrees, try progressively lowering it over the next few days and sleep with more blankets or thicker pajamas.
Other Ways to Reduce Energy Costs in the Winter
Keeping your thermostat at the right temperature in the winter is a good first step to keeping energy costs down. But there are a few other steps you can take to trim your bill.
- Upgrade your thermostat. Programmable thermostats are cheap, but most households don’t have them set up correctly. If yours is always on “hold,” you’re missing out on energy savings. While you can program yours, it can be a lengthy process, especially if your schedule changes from day to day. A smart thermostat can get rid of all those steps because it can develop an energy-efficient heating schedule based on your routine and temperature preferences. Learn how you can get a free smart thermostat (or one at a greatly reduced cost)!
- Change your furnace air filter often. 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 month if you use a flat filter. Or every 90 days if you use a pleated filter. If you have pets or someone in your home has allergies or asthma, you may want to replace your filter more frequently.
- Add more insulation. Your home is likely among the 90% in the U.S. that don’t have adequate attic insulation. Homes in northern climates require 16-18″, while those in southern climates need 13-14″.
- Get a new furnace. If your HVAC system is close to 15 years old, it’s time to start considering furnace installation. Getting an ENERGY STAR® furnace can keep you more comfortable while keeping heating costs low. A new heating system is a major investment, but Air Quality Solutions 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 cold weather or any other home comfort questions, Air Quality Solutions is here to help you. We’re the heating and cooling company your friends and neighbors have trusted since 1983. Call us at 614-871-4144 to schedule your appointment now.