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 techniques is changing your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without compromising comfort.

With multiple options and techniques available, it's possible to decrease your heating costs while still trying to keep your home cozy throughout the chilly season. Irrespective of whether you prefer a programmable thermostat or manual device, there are several ways to find the ideal balance between warmth and savings.

As a whole, 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 exterior temperature, the more money you will save on your HVAC bills.

Money-Saving Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home

When you’re around your home, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) suggests putting your thermostat to between 68°F and 70°F in the winter. That’s warm enough to keep most families comfortable, but also low enough to be energy efficient.

Effective Temperature Settings While You Not at Home

The DOE estimates you can save up to 10% on your heating costs by turning down your thermostat 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. That way, 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 get back to your house, raise the temperature bit by bit. 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.

Suggested Thermostat Settings While You Are Asleep

The good news 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 optimal temperature range for good sleep.

More Methods to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter

There are several other techniques 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 reduce drafts, keep warm air inside and protect against heat loss. This will decrease the pressure on your HVAC system and save energy.

Buy a programmable thermostat

Put in a programmable thermostat to regulate the temperature in your home effortlessly. 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 adjust the temperature correctly. To learn more about these products or for smart thermostat installation in Bishop, contact the skilled technicians at Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning. We can explain how smart thermostats can benefit your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.

H3: Schedule furnace maintenance:

Plan regular maintenance for your HVAC system. A well-maintained system functions more efficiently, decreasing energy consumption and possibly avoiding costly repairs. Clean or replace air filters on a regular basis to make sure your unit has proper airflow.

For furnace maintenance in Bishop, call the team at Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning. Our specialists will get your system in excellent working order!

Seal air leaks

Find and seal any air leaks in your home. Typical places for leaks are windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Plugging these gaps stops warm air from leaking out of your home, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a comfy temperature.

Upgrade your HVAC system

If your HVAC equipment is old, inefficient or just isn’t able to keep your home as warm as you need, furnace replacement may be a smart long-term solution. Modern furnaces are highly efficient, which can dramatically reduce your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re contemplating getting a new heating system, contact the specialists at Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning. We’re known for experienced furnace installation in Bishop and will help you choose a unit that’s ideal for your home! Call 760-784-9034 today to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate!