Energy-Efficient Thermostat Settings in Winter in Georgia

It’s winter! And that means low temperatures and high heating costs. If you’re looking to reduce your energy bills this season without compromising comfort, this guide is for you. We’ll discuss how to make sure your Sugar Hill home stays cozy without costing you an arm and a leg. With these ideas, it’ll be easy to keep warm 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 away.

We’ll also go over how installing a smart thermostat can keep heating bills low, as well as a few of our favorite energy-saving tips for chilly weather.

Our Recommendations 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 level and your goals for energy efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), setting your thermostat at 68 is the smartest 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 daytime. If you’re feeling too cold, there are a couple of other ways you can stay comfortable.

• Set your ceiling fan in reverse when you’re in a room. This redistributes hot air that collects near the ceiling.
• Choose energy-efficient window treatments, like 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.
• Maximize 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 wise choice while away. Your furnace won’t be pumping a lot of heat into an empty 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 get a better night’s sleep. The National Sleep Foundation recommends a thermostat setting of 64-65 degrees.

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

Other Ways to Lower 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 steps you can take to cut your bill.

• Upgrade your thermostat. Programmable thermostats are inexpensive, but most households don’t have them set up correctly. If yours is constantly on “hold,” you’re missing out on energy savings. While you can program yours, it can be a lengthy process, especially if your schedule varies from day to day. A smart thermostat can get rid of all those steps because it can create an energy-efficient heating schedule based on your routine and temperature preferences. Learn how you can get a free smart thermostat (or one at a greatly reduced price)!
• Change your furnace air filter often. A dirty air filter can create a lot of problems for your furnace, including making it consume more energy or even causing it to malfunction. 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 suffers from allergies or asthma, you may want to replace your filter more often.
• Add more 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. Upgrading to an ENERGY STAR® furnace can keep you comfier while keeping heating costs down. A new heating system is a major investment, but Southeast Heating & Cooling helps make it more budget friendly through rebates, special offers and financing for qualified customers.

Whenever you have questions about what the best temperature is to set your thermostat to, energy efficiency during cold weather or any other home comfort questions, Southeast Heating & Cooling is here to help you. We’re the heating and cooling company your friends and neighbors have trusted since {year}. Call us at 770-265-8308 to schedule your appointment now.