Winter weather can be unpredictable, but managing your home’s temperature doesn’t have to be. As an energy company committed to helping families, NEC Co-op Energy offers guidelines for winter thermostat settings. By following these recommendations, you can stay comfortable while saving on energy costs.

Optimal Thermostat Settings for Cold Weather

When it comes to setting your thermostat in winter, the key is balance – keeping your home warm without overworking your heating system. Here are some general guidelines:

• Daytime at Home – If someone is at home during the day, a setting of 72° F (22° C) is a comfortable starting point. However, you can save more energy by aiming for 68° F (20° C). This slight adjustment can reduce your heating costs without sacrificing comfort.
• Away or Asleep – If everyone is out for the day or you’re asleep at night, a cooler setting is advisable. Setting your thermostat between 65° F (19° C) and 62° F (18° C) can significantly cut down your heating expenses. This lower temperature reduces the workload on your heating system while you’re not actively using the space.

Transition to Winter for Energy Efficiency

Gradually adjusting to cooler indoor temperatures can help your family adapt without feeling a drastic change. Start by lowering your thermostat by one degree each week. This gradual approach allows you to find the right balance between comfort and energy savings.

Maximizing the Benefits of a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat can be a game-changer in managing your home’s temperature efficiently. Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Set and Forget – Program your thermostat for different temperatures throughout the day. For example, lower the temperature when you’re asleep or out of the house, and have it return to a comfortable level by the time you wake up or return home.
• Customize for Your Schedule – Every household has a unique schedule. Tailor your thermostat settings to match your daily routine. This ensures you’re not heating an empty house, saving you money.

Alternative Methods for Maintaining Comfortable Temperatures

Beyond adjusting your thermostat, there are other ways to maintain a comfortable temperature:

• Seal drafts – Check for drafts around windows and doors. Sealing these can keep cold air out and warm air in.
• Use curtains wisely – Leave them open during the day to let in natural sunlight and heat, and close them at night to keep the warmth inside your home.
• Layer up – Wearing warmer clothes indoors means you can keep your thermostat at a lower temperature comfortably.

Start Saving Energy Today

Finding the ideal winter temperature for your home balances comfort with cost. It’s about weighing your family’s comfort needs against the heating bills you’re prepared to pay.

Using the tips outlined above, you can have a comfortable winter thermostat setting, helping you save on your energy bill while keeping your home comfortable during the winter. This will help reduce reliance on your furnace, helping to manage heating expenses. Remember, every small adjustment can make a big difference in your energy consumption.

Sources:

“Recommended Thermostat Settings For Winter And During The Year,” Service Specialties Inc., https://www.ssihvac.com/blog/2014/november/recommended-thermostat-settings-for-winter-and-d/
“Recommended Thermostat Settings For Each Season,” Palmetto, https://palmetto.com/learning-center/blog/recommended-thermostat-settings-for-each-season
“The Benefits of Programmable Thermostats,” Elite Air, https://www.eliteairinc.com/the-benefits-of-programmable-thermostats/
“Air Sealing Your Home,” U.S. Department of Energy, https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/air-sealing-your-home