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

With several options and techniques available, homeowners can lower your heating costs while still trying to keep your home cozy throughout the chilly season. Regardless of whether you prefer a programmable thermostat or manual device, there are many ways to find the perfect balance between warmth and savings.

Overall, a good rule of thumb is the lower the temperature in your home and the less difference there is between the air inside your home and the outdoor temperature, the more money you will save on your HVAC bills.

Best Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home

When you’re going to be home, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) advises putting 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 Are Away

The DOE states you can save approximately 10% on your HVAC costs by turning down your thermostat 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. By doing this, you’re not needlessly spending money heating your home while you’re not there.

Experts say, if you are going on vacation or will be gone a long period of time, you can put your thermostat as low as 50 degrees. Doing this will keep your furnace running so you don’t have any frozen or burst pipes waiting for you when you get home.

When you arrive home, turn up the temperature gradually. 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.

Suggested Thermostat Settings While You Are in Bed for The Night

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

Other Ways to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter

There are a number of other approaches you can utilize to consume less energy this winter while you heat your home. They include:

Check your insulation levels

Insulate doors, windows and walls to minimize drafts, keep warm air inside and avoid heat loss. This will limit the stress on your heating equipment and save energy.

Buy a programmable thermostat

Purchase a programmable thermostat to regulate the temperature in your home conveniently. Set lower temperatures when you're not home or asleep and increase them only when required.

For even more savings, install a smart thermostat that can perceive when you are in or out and change the temperature accordingly. To learn more about these systems or for smart thermostat installation in Los Angeles, get a hold of the skilled technicians at AZ Air Conditioning and Heating. We can explain how smart thermostats can benefit your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.

H3: Arrange furnace maintenance:

Schedule regular maintenance for your heating and cooling system. A well-maintained heating system functions more efficiently, decreasing energy consumption and probably avoiding costly repairs. Clean or change air filters routinely to assure proper airflow.

For furnace maintenance in Los Angeles, call the team at AZ Air Conditioning and Heating. We will get your system in top shape!

Seal air leaks

Locate and seal any air leaks in your home. Typical spots for leaks including windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Sealing these gaps stops warm air from leaking out of your home, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a sufficient temperature.

Improve 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 option. Today’s furnaces are extremely efficient, which can considerably lower your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re thinking about investing in a new heating system, contact the professionals at AZ Air Conditioning and Heating. We’re noted for skilled furnace installation in Los Angeles and will help you pick a unit that’s well suited for your home! Call 800-296-5088 today to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation estimate!