It’s winter! And that means low temperatures and big heating costs. If you’re looking to reduce your energy bills this season without sacrificing comfort, this guide is for you. We’ll review how to make sure your Huntsville home stays cozy without costing you a fortune. With these tips, it’ll be easy to keep cozy all winter long!

Let’s review what temperature to set your thermostat in winter:

  • While you’re home during the day.
  • While sleeping at night.
  • While you’re away.

We’ll also go over how getting a smart thermostat can keep heating bills low, as well as a few of our top energy-saving tips for cold weather.

Our Recommendations for the Best Thermostat Settings in Winter

You might be thinking if 70 is a good temperature for the winter. It can be, but it also varies based on your comfort level and your goals for energy efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), setting your thermostat at 68 is the smartest way to keep heating costs down.

What Temperature to Set Your Thermostat in Winter During the Day

While Home

The DOE recommends 68 degrees during the day. If you’re feeling too cold, there are a couple of other ways you can stay warm.

  • Run your ceiling fan in reverse when you’re in a room. This redistributes hot air that gathers near the ceiling.
  • Select energy-efficient window treatments, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters. If your home has old or drafty windows, installing plastic sheeting or window blankets provides an extra barrier against the cold.
  • Make the most of natural warmth by opening south-facing window treatments during daytime. Don’t forget to close them at night to reduce heat loss.

While Gone

If it dips under 30 degrees, setting your thermostat around 64-65 degrees is a sensible choice while gone. Your furnace won’t be heating a vacant home, but it’ll be easy for the temperature to bounce back when you get back.

You may want to set the thermostat slightly higher if you have a dog, especially a puppy, senior dog, small dog or a dog with short hair. Between 66-67 degrees will keep them cozy and happy.

What Temperature to Set Your Thermostat in Winter at Night

Keeping your bedroom cool can help you get a better night’s sleep. The National Sleep Foundation advises a thermostat setting of 64-65 degrees.

That might seem too chilly if you’re accustomed to a higher temperature. If you’re used to sleeping at 68 degrees, try progressively lowering it over the next couple of days and sleep with more blankets or warmer pajamas.

Additional to Manage Energy Costs in the Winter

Keeping your thermostat at the ideal temperature in the winter is a good first step to keeping energy costs low. But there are a few other steps you can take to cut your bill.

  • Get a new thermostat. Programmable thermostats are inexpensive, but most households don’t have them set up properly. If yours is constantly on “hold,” you’re at a disadvantage for energy savings. While you can program yours, it can be a lengthy process, especially if your schedule fluctuates from day to day. A smart thermostat can get rid of all those steps because it can develop an energy-efficient heating schedule based on your routine and temperature preferences. Learn how you can get a free smart thermostat (or one at a greatly reduced cost)!
  • Change your furnace air filter often. A dirty air filter can create a lot of problems for your furnace, including making it use more energy or even causing it to malfunction. That’s why it’s important to change yours every 30 days if you use a flat filter. Or every 90 days if you use a pleated filter. If you have pets or someone in your home has allergies or asthma, you may want to replace your filter more frequently.
  • Add more insulation. Your home is probably among the 90% in the U.S. that don’t have enough attic insulation. Homes in northern climates need 16-18″, while those in southern climates need 13-14″.
  • Install a new furnace. If your HVAC system is close to 15 years old, it’s time to start considering furnace installation. Getting an ENERGY STAR® furnace can keep you comfier while keeping heating costs low. A new heating system is a big investment, but All Weather Heating & Air Conditioning Inc helps make it more budget friendly through rebates, special offers and financing for qualified customers.

Whenever you have concerns about what the best temperature is to set your thermostat to, energy efficiency during winter or any other home comfort questions, All Weather Heating & Air Conditioning Inc is here to help you. We’re the heating and cooling company your friends and neighbors have depended on since {year}. Call us at 256-801-4701 to request your appointment today.