It’s winter! And that means cold temperatures and high heating costs. If you’re looking to reduce your energy bills this season without sacrificing comfort, this guide is for you. We’ll review how to make sure your Ballwin and St. Charles 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 review 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 review how getting a smart thermostat can reduce heating bills, as well as a few of our favorite energy-saving tips for cold weather.

Our Expert Opinion 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 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 the day. If you’re feeling too cold, 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 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 offers an additional 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 reduce heat loss.

While Gone

If it dips below 30 degrees, setting your thermostat around 64-65 degrees is a smart 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 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 cozy 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 chilly if you’re used 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 warmer pajamas.

Other Ways to 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.

  • Get a new thermostat. Programmable thermostats are inexpensive, but most households don’t have them set up properly. If yours is constantly 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 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)!
  • Replace your furnace air filter regularly. A dirty air filter can cause 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 has allergies or asthma, you may want to change your filter more often.
  • Add extra insulation. Your home is probably 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″.
  • Get a new furnace. If your HVAC system is nearly 15 years old, it’s time to start thinking about furnace installation. Upgrading to an ENERGY STAR® furnace can keep you more comfortable while keeping heating costs low. A new heating system is a major investment, but Air Alliance Team 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 issues, Air Alliance Team is here to assist you. We’re the heating and cooling company your friends and neighbors have trusted since {year}. Call us at 636-206-4584 to schedule your appointment today.