Set Your Thermostat and Save Money During the Cold Months

As winter approaches and the temperature falls, finding ways to save money on your power bills becomes a top priority. One of the best techniques is adjusting your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without losing comfort.

With many options and techniques available, you can lower your heating costs while still trying to keep your home cozy throughout the chilly season. Regardless of 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 guideline 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 your monthly energy costs.

Money-Saving Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home

When you’re going to be 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 lots of families comfortable, but also low enough to be energy efficient.

Effective Temperature Settings While You Are Away

The DOE reports you can save up to 10% on your HVAC costs by turning down 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.

Authorities say, if you are going on vacation or will be gone a prolonged period of time, you can adjust your thermostat as low as 50 degrees. This will be warm enough it 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 return to your home, turn up the temperature gradually. 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.

Suggested Thermostat Settings While You Are Sleeping

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 suggests somewhere between 66 and 70 degrees is the ideal temperature range for good sleep.

Additional Methods to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter

There are a number of other techniques 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 stress 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 out of your home or asleep and increase them only when required.

For even more savings, install a smart thermostat that can sense when you are in or out and adjust the temperature correctly. To learn more about these gadgets or for smart thermostat installation in Mason City, consult with the skilled technicians at Mechanical Air Systems Co. We can explain 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 heating system runs 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 Mason City, call the team at Mechanical Air Systems Co. Our specialists will get your system in top shape!

Seal air leaks

Find and close off any air leaks in your home. Frequent places for leaks tend to be windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Closing 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 desire, furnace replacement may be a smart long-term option. Contemporary furnaces are highly efficient, which can notably reduce your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re interested in getting a new heating system, call the professionals at Mechanical Air Systems Co. We’re noted for knowledgeable furnace installation in Mason City and will help you find a unit that’s ideal for your home! Call 641-243-4654 today to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate!