As winter gets closer and the temperature dips, finding ways to save money on your power bills becomes a top priority. One of the best techniques is changing your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without compromising comfort.

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

As a whole, a good rule is the lower the temperature in 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 heating.

Ideal Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home

When you’re around your home, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) suggests 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 Going to Be Out of Your Home

The DOE states you can save as much as 10% on your energy costs by lowering your thermostat 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. That way, you’re not wasting 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 put your thermostat as low as 50 degrees. Doing this will keep your furnace running so you don’t have any frozen or burst pipes cause damage to your home while you're gone.

When you arrive home, raise the temperature bit by bit. That will keep your heating system from working too hard, which could be the case if you raise the temperature on your thermostat really high right away.

Cost-Efficient Thermostat Settings While You Are Sleeping

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 best temperature range for good sleep.

Additional Techniques to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter

There are several 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 cut down on drafts, keep warm air inside and protect against heat loss. This will minimize the pressure on your furnace and save energy.

Buy a programmable thermostat

Put in a programmable thermostat to regulate the temperature in your home effectively. Set lower temperatures when you're away 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 modify the temperature accordingly. To learn more about these systems or for smart thermostat installation in Payson, consult with the skilled technicians at North Mechanical Heating and Cooling. We can provide you with information about how smart thermostats can benefit your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.

H3: Schedule furnace maintenance:

Schedule regular maintenance for your HVAC system. A well-maintained heating system operates more efficiently, decreasing 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 Payson, call the team at North Mechanical Heating and Cooling. Our specialists will get your system in excellent working order!

Seal air leaks

Detect and close off any air leaks in your home. Frequent sites for leaks including windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Sealing these gaps stops warm air from leaking out of your home, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a comfy temperature.

Update your HVAC system

If your HVAC equipment is old, inefficient or just isn’t able to keep your home as warm as you desire, furnace replacement may be a good long-term decision. Modern furnaces are extremely efficient, which can dramatically reduce your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re considering investing in a new heating system, phone the professionals at North Mechanical Heating and Cooling. We’re recognized for knowledgeable furnace installation in Payson and will help you find a unit that’s well suited for your home! Call 928-263-8570 today to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate!