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

Let’s review 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 keep heating bills low, as well as a few of our favorite energy-saving tips for cold weather.

Our Recommendations for Energy Efficient Thermostat Settings in Winter

You might be wondering if 70 is a good temperature for the winter. It can be, but it also varies based 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 best way to keep heating costs down.

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 chilly, there are a couple of other ways you can stay comfortable.

  • Run your ceiling fan in reverse when you’re in a room. This redistributes warm air that gathers near the ceiling.
  • Choose energy-efficient window treatments, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters. If your home has old or drafty windows, putting up plastic sheeting or window blankets offers an extra barrier against the cold.
  • Make the most of natural warmth by opening south-facing window treatments during daytime. Don’t forget to shut 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 heating a vacant home, but it’ll be easy for the temperature to bounce back when you return.

You may want to set the thermostat slightly higher if you have a dog, particularly a puppy, senior dog, small dog or a dog with short hair. Between 66-67 degrees will keep them cozy 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 cold if you’re used to a warmer temperature. If you’re used to sleeping at 68 degrees, try slowly lowering it over the next couple of days and sleep with more blankets or warmer pajamas.

A Few Other Ways You Can Manage Energy Costs in the Winter

Keeping your thermostat at the ideal 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 inexpensive, but most households don’t have them set up properly. 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 lengthy process, especially if your schedule changes from day to day. A smart thermostat can eliminate all that work because it can create 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 cost)!
  • Replace 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 break down. That’s why it’s important to change yours every month 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 frequently.
  • Add more insulation. Your home is probably among the 90% in the U.S. that don’t have enough attic insulation. Homes in northern climates need 16-18″, while those in southern climates require 13-14″.
  • Get a new furnace. If your HVAC system is close to 15 years old, it’s time to start considering furnace installation. Getting an ENERGY STAR® furnace can keep you comfier while keeping heating costs down. A new heating system is a big investment, but ACE Solutions helps make it more budget friendly 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 winter or any other home comfort questions, ACE Solutions is here to assist you. We’re the heating and cooling company your friends and neighbors have relied on since {year}. Call us at 201-579-2562 to schedule your appointment now.