It's winter! And that means low temperatures and big heating costs. If you're looking to cut your energy bills this season without sacrificing comfort, this guide is for you. We’ll discuss how to make sure your Kearney home stays cozy without costing you an arm and a leg. With these ideas, it'll be easy to keep cozy all winter long!

Let’s go over what temperature to set your thermostat in winter:

  • While you’re home during the day.
  • While sleeping at night.
  • While you’re gone.

We’ll also review how getting a smart thermostat can reduce heating bills, as well as a few of our favorite energy-saving tips for chilly weather.

Our Guide for Winter Thermostat Settings

You might be wondering if 70 is a good temperature for the winter. It can be, but it also depends on your comfort needs and your goals for energy efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), setting your thermostat at 68 is the best way to keep heating costs under control.

What Temperature to Set Your Thermostat in Winter During the Day

While Home

The DOE recommends 68 degrees during the day. If you’re feeling too chilly, there are a couple of other ways you can stay warm.

  • Run your ceiling fan in reverse when you’re in a room. This redistributes warm air that collects near the ceiling.
  • Choose energy-efficient window treatments, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters. If your home has old or drafty windows, installing plastic sheeting or window blankets provides an additional barrier against the cold.
  • Make the most of natural warmth by opening south-facing window treatments during daytime. Don’t forget to close them at night to minimize heat loss.

While Gone

If it dips below 30 degrees, setting your thermostat around 64-65 degrees is a smart choice while gone. Your furnace won’t be pumping a lot of heat into a vacant home, but it’ll be easy for the temperature to recover when you return.

You may want to set the thermostat somewhat higher if you have a dog, especially a puppy, senior dog, small dog or a dog with short hair. Between 66-67 degrees will keep them comfortable and happy.

What Temperature to Set Your Thermostat in Winter at Night

Keeping your bedroom cool can help you sleep better. The National Sleep Foundation recommends a thermostat setting of 64-65 degrees.

That might seem too chilly if you’re accustomed to a warmer temperature. If you’re used to sleeping at 68 degrees, try gradually lowering it over the next few days and sleep with more blankets or thicker pajamas.

Additional to Reduce Energy Costs in the Winter

Keeping your thermostat at the right temperature in the winter is a good first step to keeping energy costs low. But there are a few other things you can do to trim your bill.

  • Upgrade your thermostat. Programmable thermostats are cheap, but most households don’t have them set up correctly. If yours is always on “hold,” you’re at a disadvantage for energy savings. While you can get your schedule set up, it can be a time-consuming process, especially if your schedule varies from day to day. A smart thermostat can eliminate all that work because it can develop an energy-efficient heating schedule based on your routine and temperature preferences. Find out how you can get a free smart thermostat (or one at a greatly reduced price)!
  • Replace your furnace air filter often. A dirty air filter can create a lot of problems for your furnace, including making it use more energy or even causing it to break down. That’s why it’s important to change yours every 30 days if you use a flat filter. Or every three months if you use a pleated filter. If you have pets or someone in your home has allergies or asthma, you may want to change your filter more frequently.
  • Add extra insulation. Your home is likely among the 90% in the U.S. that don’t have adequate attic insulation. Homes in northern climates require 16-18", while those in southern climates require 13-14".
  • Install a new furnace. If your HVAC system is nearly 15 years old, it’s time to start considering furnace installation. Installing an ENERGY STAR® furnace can keep you comfier while keeping heating costs down. A new heating system is a major investment, but Thurston Heating & Air Conditioning helps make it more affordable through rebates, special offers and financing for qualified customers.

Whenever you have concerns about what the best temperature is to set your thermostat to, energy efficiency during cold weather or any other home comfort issues, Thurston Heating & Air Conditioning is here to assist you. We’re the heating and cooling company your friends and neighbors have trusted since year. Call us at 308-624-3485 to request your appointment now.