Guide to Energy-Efficient Thermostat Settings in Winter in Bossier City

December 22, 2021

It's winter! And that means cold 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 discuss how to make sure your Bossier City home stays cozy without costing you an arm and a leg. With these ideas, it'll be easy to keep warm 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 installing a smart thermostat can keep heating bills low, as well as a few of our favorite energy-saving tips for cold weather.

Our Suggestions for Winter Thermostat Settings

You might be wondering if 70 is a good temperature for the winter. It can be, but it also depends on your comfort needs and your goals for energy efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), setting your thermostat at 68 is the best 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 daytime. If you’re feeling too cold, there are a couple of other ways you can stay warm.

Set your ceiling fan in reverse when you’re in a room. This redistributes warm air that collects near the ceiling.
Select energy-efficient window treatments, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters. If your home has old or drafty windows, putting up 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 the day. Don’t forget to shut them at night to minimize heat loss.

While Gone

If it dips under 30 degrees, setting your thermostat between 64 and 65 degrees is a wise choice while away. Your furnace won’t be pumping a lot of heat into an empty 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 comfortable 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 cold if you’re accustomed to a warmer temperature. If you’re used to sleeping at 68 degrees, try slowly lowering it over the next few days and sleep with more blankets or warmer pajamas.

Other Ways to Lower Energy Costs in the Winter

Keeping your thermostat at the right temperature in the winter is a good start with keeping energy costs down. But there are a few other steps you can take to cut your bill.

Upgrade your thermostat. Programmable thermostats are cheap, but most households don’t have them set up properly. If yours is constantly on “hold,” you’re missing out on energy savings. While you can program yours, it can be a lengthy process, especially if your schedule varies from day to day. A smart thermostat can eliminate all that work because it can develop an energy-efficient heating schedule based on your routine and temperature preferences. Find out how you can get a free smart thermostat (or one at a greatly reduced price)!
Replace your furnace air filter regularly. A dirty air filter can cause a lot of problems for your furnace, including making it use more energy or even causing it to break down. That’s why it’s important to replace yours every 30 days if you use a flat filter. Or every three months if you use a pleated filter. If you have pets or someone in your home suffers from 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 adequate attic insulation. Homes in northern climates require 16-18", while those in southern climates require 13-14".
Install a new furnace. If your HVAC system is nearly 15 years old, it’s time to start considering furnace installation. Installing an ENERGY STAR® furnace can keep you comfier while keeping heating costs down. A new heating system is a big investment, but Brooks Heating and Air Conditioning helps make it more budget friendly through rebates, special offers and financing for qualified customers.

Whenever you have questions about what is the best temperature to set your thermostat at, energy efficiency during winter or any other home comfort issues, Brooks Heating and Air Conditioning is here to help you. We’re the heating and cooling company your friends and neighbors have relied on since 1954. Call us at 800-COOLING to schedule your appointment today.

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