Deciding what to set your thermostat to in the winter can be confusing. You want to stay cozy while not breaking the bank on heater costs. Thermostat settings will vary depending on the size of your home and your comfort level. We want to help you by providing general guidelines for setting your home’s thermostat.
Your Guide to Thermostat Settings in the Winter:
So what are the main temperatures you should be setting your thermostat to during the winter? Here’s what we recommend:
- While you are home during the day, anywhere from 70 F – 73 F.
- At night or if you are away from your home 63 F – 69 F.
While having your house cooler may sound counterproductive, it helps retain heat in your home. A cooler home will cause heat to take longer to escape once your heater starts. If you can program your thermostat settings, this will help you maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the day.
The ideal temperature to set your thermostat is 68 F in the winter.
While many people may have a different comfort level, 68 F is just warm enough to heat your home while still saving on energy costs. If your home has furnace heating, this temperature is an ideal setting for you. If this temperature is still too cold for your comfort level, then this is where we would suggest 70 F to 73 F. Anything higher should be set to only moderately to maintain the health of your heating system.
We are here to help you save your money and energy
Setting your thermostat to a lower temperature at night or when you are away from your home can generally help you save on energy costs. According to Sacramento Municipal Utility District, you can save about 10% on your heater operating cost when lowering your thermostat by two degrees.
It is essential to keep in mind the health of your heater system. If the desired temperature of your home is higher than the temperature outside, your system has to work overtime to keep your home at the desired temperature. If you are still uncomfortable, blankets and adding extra layers can help keep you warm instead of overworking your heater. Overworking your heater can not only raise your energy costs but can also cause you to need repairs down the road.
Feel like your home is not getting any warmer?
If you notice your house is staying cold even with your thermostat at around 70 F, it may be time to schedule a furnace repair.
Some other signs that you need a furnace repair are:
- Unfamiliar or strange sounds from the furnace
- Uneven heating in your home
- Increased energy bills
It is vital to get your furnace serviced once a year to ensure proper heating throughout your home. The best time to schedule is in the fall before the temperature outside drops in the winter.
At Big Mountain Heating & Air, we are here for you every step of the way. If any more questions are unanswered, we are more than happy to help. Call us today to get started on heating solutions for your Sacramento home!