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

With multiple options and techniques available, it's possible to reduce your heating costs while still making your home cozy throughout the chilly season. Regardless of whether you prefer a programmable thermostat or manual device, there are plenty of ways to find the ideal balance between warmth and savings.

In general, a good rule 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 HVAC bills.

Money-Saving Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home

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

Effective Temperature Settings While You Going to Be Out of Your Home

The DOE reports you can save as much as 10% on your heating 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.

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. This will be warm enough it 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, increase the temperature slowly. 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 Asleep

The nice thing 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 optimal temperature range for great sleep.

Additional Techniques to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter

There are many other techniques you can employ so you 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 counter heat loss. This will decrease the pressure on your HVAC system and save energy.

Install a programmable thermostat

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

For even more savings, buy a smart thermostat that can detect when you are in or out and adjust the temperature appropriately. To learn more about these systems or for smart thermostat installation in Monroe, get a hold of the skilled technicians at Lanz Furnace and Fireplace. We can explain how smart thermostats can help your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.

H3: Schedule furnace maintenance:

Schedule regular maintenance for your heating system. A well-maintained system functions more efficiently, lowering energy consumption and probably avoiding costly repairs. Clean or change air filters on a regular basis to ensure proper airflow.

For furnace maintenance in Monroe, call the team at Lanz Furnace and Fireplace. Our trained technicians will get your system in peak condition!

Seal air leaks

Find and close off any air leaks in your home. Common places for leaks are windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Closing these gaps stops warm air from seeping out, 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 need, furnace replacement may be a smart long-term decision. Modern furnaces are extremely efficient, which can notably lower your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re contemplating getting a new heating system, call the pros at Lanz Furnace and Fireplace. We’re noted for skilled furnace installation in Monroe and will help you choose a unit that’s ideal for your home! Call 608-291-3606 today to schedule a no-cost, no-obligation estimate!