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

With numerous options and techniques available, homeowners can lower your heating costs while still trying to keep your home cozy throughout the chilly season. Whether you prefer a programmable thermostat or manual device, there are many ways to find the perfect balance between warmth and savings.

In general, a good rule of thumb is the lower the temperature in 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 your HVAC bills.

Best Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home

When you’re around your home, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recommends setting your thermostat to between 68°F and 70°F in the winter. That’s warm enough to keep most families comfortable, but also low enough to be energy efficient.

Effective Temperature Settings While You Not at Home

The DOE estimates you can save up to 10% on your home heating costs by turning down your thermostat 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. That way, you’re not needlessly spending money heating your home while you’re not there.

Experts say, if you are going on vacation or will be gone a prolonged period of time, you can put your thermostat as low as 50 degrees. That will keep your furnace running so you don’t have any frozen or burst pipes while you are away.

When you return to your home, increase the temperature little by little. That will keep your heating system from running too hard, which could happen 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 good news 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 optimal temperature range for good sleep.

Additional Methods to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter

There are many other approaches you can use to consume less energy this winter while you heat your home. They include:

Evaluate your insulation levels

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

Set up a programmable thermostat

Purchase a programmable thermostat to manage the temperature in your home effectively. Set lower temperatures when you're out of your home or asleep and increase them only when needed.

For even more savings, set up a smart thermostat that can sense when you are in or out and change the temperature appropriately. To learn more about these devices or for smart thermostat installation in Northridge, consult with the skilled technicians at Enertek Air Conditioning & Heating. 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 HVAC system. A well-maintained heating system operates more efficiently, decreasing energy consumption and potentially avoiding costly repairs. Clean or replace air filters regularly to make sure your unit has proper airflow.

For furnace maintenance in Northridge, call the team at Enertek Air Conditioning & Heating. Our trained technicians will get your system in excellent working order!

Seal air leaks

Locate and seal any air leaks in your home. Common spots for leaks including windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Closing these gaps stops warm air from escaping, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Upgrade 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 solution. Contemporary furnaces are very efficient, which can considerably lower your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re considering upgrading to a new heating system, phone the professionals at Enertek Air Conditioning & Heating. We’re noted for skilled furnace installation in Northridge and will help you choose a unit that’s perfect for your home! Call (818) 727-9993 today to schedule a no-cost, no-obligation estimate!