The Best Temperature To Set Your Thermostat In Winter

If you're looking for a way to lower your heating bill without freezing, you've come to the right place. The best way to save on your heating bill is to set your thermostat to the right temperatures at the right times. This is the easiest way to stay comfortable in the winter without costing yourself a fortune. Everyone has different preferences and needs, so there is no one-size-fits-all thermostat setting. If you're flexible, you can balance comfort and energy savings. We also recommend wearing a sweater when you're in your home, instead of turning up the heat. Here are our suggestions for the best winter thermostat settings:

Best Winter Thermostat Setting When At Home

When you're home (and not snuggled under warm blankets), we suggest setting the thermostat anywhere from 68-72°, depending on your level of activity and comfort threshold.72° is a good place to start, but aim for about 68° as your set point. You and your family won't notice as much if you drop the temperature by one degree every few days. That will allow everyone to acclimate to the lower temperature.

Best Winter Thermostat Setting When You're Away From Home

When you're not at home, there is no reason to heat it to a comfortable temperature. However, a freezing cold home can seriously harm your pipes, houseplants, and pets. It's also a lot harder to bring back up to a warm temperature when you need to. So when you're not home, the ideal, energy-efficient thermostat setting is in the range of 62-66°.

Best Winter Thermostat Setting When You're Asleep

When everyone is cozy under their covers, set the temperature to 65°. Studies show this is the best temperature for sleep.

WHY IS 65° THE BEST THERMOSTAT SETTING FOR SLEEP?

Sleep patterns are influenced by light exposure, temperature, exercise, and social cues. While light exposure is the most significant factor for sleep quality, temperature is the next most important. Your body temperature typically starts dropping as it gets closer to bedtime, which triggers the release of melatonin, the sleep hormone. By setting your thermostat lower, you can help your body cool down to expedite the process.

However, don't assume that the lower you go, the better. Studies also show that a temperature below 54° can interrupt your sleep patterns and cause you to wake up. Try to stay somewhere between 62 and 65°.

Simplify Energy Savings With A Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat is a convenient tool to help you set the right home temperature at the right time. Work out your household schedule to determine when you'll need a higher temperature setting and when it will be okay to cut back on the heat. Program the thermostat to change as needed. Then get ready to enjoy a warm home and potentially up to 15 percent savings on your heating bill.

Want To Save Even More On Heating Costs?

Another way to cut heating costs in the winter is to make sure your furnace is running smoothly. Have your furnace professionally tuned up at least once a year. An HVAC contractor will help you devise a preventive maintenance plan to help your heating system function more effectively, decrease energy usage, reduce the need for repairs, and extend its service life.

Get Expert Info On Thermostats & Furnace Maintenance

To heat your home the smart way and save money, call, email, or set up an appointment with the experts at Air Butler Heating and Cooling. We would be happy to help you choose the right thermostat and tune up or repair your furnace to get it ready for winter.