During the winter months, as the air cools down, many homeowners opt to switch on their heating systems to warm up their homes for the season. Although individuals may have varying temperature preferences, experts suggest an ideal thermostat setting for the winter months. Continue reading to discover the temperature recommended by heating professionals and find out the most energy-efficient (yet cozy!) temperature for your home this winter.
Experts Nick Barber, the LLC manager at Utilities Now, and Brad Roberson, president of Aire Serv, agree that 68°F is generally the most comfortable daytime temperature for homes in the winter. Maintaining this thermostat setting will ensure comfort for you and your household while also keeping heating costs under control. Should this temperature feel too chilly for your liking, Brad Roberson advises making slight adjustments before cranking up the heat.
In specific, Roberson suggests, “If you feel cold, try adding an extra layer of clothing. If that doesn’t suffice, increase the thermostat by one degree for a few hours and gauge the comfort level.” This particular temperature is best suited for when you are consistently at home throughout the day. It is recommended by experts to lower the temperature at night or when you are away to conserve energy.
Nick Barber recommends decreasing the thermostat setting when sleeping or away for an extended period. “I suggest lowering the temperature by 7 to 10 degrees at night—around 60°F to 62°F. Not only does this save energy, but with the addition of a good blanket or warm bedding, you can stay snug,” he states. “If there’s nobody at home during the day, reduce the temperature to approximately 55°F to 60°F to prevent unnecessary heat loss while safeguarding your pipes.”
For easier adjustment of temperatures from daytime to nighttime, Barber suggests considering a smart thermostat. “With a smart thermostat, you can program these adjustments based on your routine. You can have the heating kick in just before your return from work or wake-up time,” he explains. “This way, you always enter a comfortable home without straining your heating system.” For added convenience, opt for a smart thermostat that enables direct temperature control via your phone, as recommended by Roberson. This way, you can modify the temperature remotely to avoid returning to a cold house.
Additionally, to further reduce heating costs and maintain a cozy home, consider implementing these energy-saving strategies:
– Concentrate heat in the areas of the house where you spend the most time by closing off vents and doors to unused rooms.
– If you frequently occupy a specific area in your home, such as a home office, think about utilizing a small space heater instead of adjusting the whole-house thermostat.
– Seal drafts around windows and doors to prevent heat loss.
Raise your blinds or curtains during the day to welcome in the sunlight, and close them at night to help retain the warmth inside your home. It is also important to keep your furnace filters clean to ensure proper airflow and efficiency. Regular servicing of your HVAC system will help it run smoothly and effectively throughout the winter months. Additionally, adjusting your ceiling fans to rotate clockwise can help pull up cold air and push down warm air, aiding in maintaining a comfortable temperature in your living space.
For more tips on keeping your home warm and cozy without cranking up the heat, be sure to read the original article on Better Homes & Gardens.
Remember these simple strategies to help you stay warm and comfortable during the winter season.
