As winter approaches and the temperature dips, finding ways to save money on your energy bills becomes a top priority. One of the simplest tips is changing your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without losing comfort.

With several options and techniques available, it's possible to decrease 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 appropriate balance between warmth and savings.

In general, a good rule is the lower the temperature within 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 monthly energy costs.

Best Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home

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

Effective Temperature Settings While You Are Away

The DOE reports you can save approximately 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 wasting money heating your home while you’re not there.

Experts say, if you are going on vacation or will be gone a long 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 arrive home, turn up the temperature gradually. That will keep your heating system from performing too hard, which could happen if you raise the temperature on your thermostat really high right away.

Recommended Thermostat Settings While You Are Sleeping

The great news about sleep-time thermostat settings in the winter is that people generally sleep well when it’s a little colder. The National Sleep Foundation reports somewhere between 66 and 70 degrees is the best temperature range for quality sleep.

Other Ways to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter

There are many other ways you can employ so you consume less energy this winter while you heat your home. They include:

Check your insulation levels

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

Set up a programmable thermostat

Put in a programmable thermostat to manage the temperature in your home effectively. Set lower temperatures when you're away or asleep and increase them only when required.

For even more savings, set up a smart thermostat that can detect when you are in or out and adjust the temperature appropriately. To learn more about these gadgets or for smart thermostat installation in Magnolia, consult with the skilled technicians at JTech Mechanical. We can provide you with information about how smart thermostats can improve your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.

H3: Plan furnace maintenance:

Schedule regular maintenance for your HVAC system. A well-maintained furnace runs more efficiently, decreasing energy consumption and probably avoiding costly repairs. Clean or change air filters regularly to make sure your unit has proper airflow.

For furnace maintenance in Magnolia, call the team at JTech Mechanical. Our trained technicians will get your system in top shape!

Seal air leaks

Find and seal any air leaks in your home. Typical places for leaks tend to be windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Closing these gaps blocks warm air from escaping, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a comfy temperature.

Update 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 decision. Modern day furnaces are highly efficient, which can dramatically lower your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re considering investing in a new heating system, contact the professionals at JTech Mechanical. We’re recognized for skilled furnace installation in Magnolia and will help you choose a unit that’s perfect for your home! Call 281-231-8768 today to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate!