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

With multiple options and techniques available, you can lower your heating costs while still making your home cozy throughout the chilly season. Whether you prefer a programmable thermostat or manual device, there are many ways to find the perfect 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 outside temperature, the more money you will save on your HVAC bills.

Ideal Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home

When you’re around your 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 most families comfy, 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 approximately 10% on your HVAC costs by turning down 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.

Industry professionals say, if you are going on vacation or will be gone a long period of time, you can adjust 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 bit by bit. That will keep your heating system from performing too hard, which it could if you raise the temperature on your thermostat really high right away.

Recommended Thermostat Settings While You Are in Bed for The Night

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

Other Techniques 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 minimize drafts, keep warm air inside and avoid heat loss. This will limit the pressure on your HVAC system and save energy.

Set up a programmable thermostat

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

For even more savings, purchase a smart thermostat that can perceive when you are in or out and change the temperature appropriately. To learn more about these systems or for smart thermostat installation in Haines City, contact the skilled technicians at Air Commander's Heating & Air Conditioning Co.. We can provide you with information about how smart thermostats can improve your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.

H3: Schedule furnace maintenance:

Plan regular maintenance for your heating system. A well-maintained furnace runs more efficiently, lowering energy consumption and possibly avoiding costly repairs. Clean or exchange air filters on a regular basis to assure proper airflow.

For furnace maintenance in Haines City, call the team at Air Commander's Heating & Air Conditioning Co.. Our specialists will get your system in top shape!

Seal air leaks

Find and close off any air leaks in your home. Common places for leaks tend to be windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Sealing these gaps blocks warm air from escaping, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a comfy 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 need, furnace replacement may be an ideal long-term solution. Modern furnaces are highly efficient, which can dramatically lower your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re thinking about upgrading to a new heating system, call the specialists at Air Commander's Heating & Air Conditioning Co.. We’re recognized for experienced furnace installation in Haines City and will help you choose a unit that’s perfect for your home! Call 863-216-2923 today to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation estimate!