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

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

As a whole, a good rule of thumb is the lower the temperature inside your home and the less difference there is between the air inside your home and the exterior temperature, the more money you will save on heating.

Ideal Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home

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

Effective Temperature Settings While You Not at Home

The DOE estimates you can save as much as 10% on your home heating costs by decreasing your thermostat 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. By using this method, 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 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 while you are away.

When you get back to your house, raise the temperature slowly. 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.

Suggested Thermostat Settings While You Are in Bed for The Night

The great news about sleep-time thermostat settings in the winter is that people get good sleep when it’s a little colder. The National Sleep Foundation says somewhere between 66 and 70 degrees is the optimal temperature range for great sleep.

More Tactics to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter

There are a number of other ways 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 reduce drafts, keep warm air inside and counter heat loss. This will decrease the pressure on your HVAC system and save energy.

Install a programmable thermostat

Install a programmable thermostat to regulate the temperature in your home efficiently. Set lower temperatures when you're out of your home or asleep and increase them only when necessary.

For even more savings, purchase a smart thermostat that can perceive when you are in or out and modify the temperature appropriately. To learn more about these devices or for smart thermostat installation in Omaha, consult with the skilled technicians at The Frazier Company. We can provide you with information about how smart thermostats can help your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.

H3: Plan furnace maintenance:

Plan regular maintenance for your heating and cooling system. A well-maintained furnace runs more efficiently, lowering energy consumption and possibly avoiding costly repairs. Clean or replace air filters routinely to ensure proper airflow.

For furnace maintenance in Omaha, call the team at The Frazier Company. Our trained technicians will get your system in peak condition!

Seal air leaks

Find and fill in any air leaks in your home. Typical places for leaks including windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Sealing these gaps blocks warm air from leaking out of your home, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a sufficient 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 smart long-term option. Modern furnaces are very efficient, which can dramatically lower your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re considering upgrading to a new heating system, phone the specialists at The Frazier Company. We’re known for experienced furnace installation in Omaha and will help you select a unit that’s well suited for your home! Call 402-628-0206 today to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation estimate!