As winter approaches and the temperature dips, finding ways to save money on your energy bills becomes a top priority. One of the simplest techniques is changing your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without compromising comfort.

With several options and techniques available, it's possible to reduce your heating costs while still keeping your home cozy throughout the chilly season. Whether you prefer a programmable thermostat or manual device, there are plenty of ways to find the perfect balance between warmth and savings.

Overall, a good rule of thumb is the lower the temperature within your home and the less difference there is between the air inside your home and the exterior temperature, the more money you will save on your monthly energy costs.

Money-Saving Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home

When you’re going to be home, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recommends dialing 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 estimates you can save approximately 10% on your heating 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 an extended period of time, you can set your thermostat as low as 50 degrees. This will be warm enough it will keep your furnace running so you don’t have any frozen or burst pipes while you are away.

When you return to your home, turn up the temperature slowly. That will keep your heating system from running too hard, which could happen if you raise the temperature on your thermostat quite high right away.

Cost-Efficient Thermostat Settings While You Are Sleeping

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 says somewhere between 66 and 70 degrees is the optimal temperature range for great sleep.

Other Ways to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter

There are several other ways you can employ so you 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 protect against heat loss. This will decrease the pressure on your HVAC system and save energy.

Install a programmable thermostat

Put in a programmable thermostat to control the temperature in your home efficiently. Set lower temperatures when you're not home 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 adjust the temperature accordingly. To learn more about these devices or for smart thermostat installation in Oxford, consult with the skilled technicians at Franklin's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. We can explain how smart thermostats can help your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.

H3: Schedule furnace maintenance:

Schedule regular maintenance for your heating system. A well-maintained heating system functions more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and probably avoiding costly repairs. Clean or exchange air filters regularly to make sure your unit has proper airflow.

For furnace maintenance in Oxford, call the team at Franklin's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. Our trained technicians will get your system in excellent working order!

Seal air leaks

Find and close off any air leaks in your home. Typical places for leaks tend to be windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Sealing these gaps prevents warm air from seeping out, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a cozy 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 desire, furnace replacement may be a smart long-term decision. Contemporary furnaces are extremely efficient, which can significantly decrease 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 Franklin's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. We’re noted for experienced furnace installation in Oxford and will help you find a unit that’s well suited for your home! Call 662-281-1231 today to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation estimate!