Guide to Energy-Efficient Thermostat Settings in Winter in Naples

It’s winter! And that means cold temperatures and high heating costs. If you’re looking to cut your energy bills this season without sacrificing comfort, this guide is for you. We’ll discuss how to make sure your Naples home stays warm without costing you a fortune. With these tips, 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 gone.

We’ll also review how getting a smart thermostat can keep heating bills low, as well as a few of our top energy-saving tips for chilly weather.

Our Suggestions for Winter Thermostat Settings

You might be thinking 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 smartest 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 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 warm air that collects near the ceiling.
• Select 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 extra barrier against the cold.
• Make the most of natural warmth by opening south-facing window treatments during the day. Don’t forget to close them at night to minimize heat loss.

While Gone

If it dips under 30 degrees, setting your thermostat between 64 and 65 degrees is a wise choice while away. Your furnace won’t be pumping a lot of heat into a vacant home, but it’ll be easy for the temperature to bounce back when you get back.

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 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 higher temperature. If you’re used to sleeping at 68 degrees, try progressively lowering it over the next couple of days and sleep with more blankets or thicker pajamas.

Other Ways to Reduce Energy Costs in the Winter

Keeping your thermostat at the ideal temperature in the winter is a good start with 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 correctly. If yours is always on “hold,” you’re at a disadvantage for energy savings. While you can program yours, it can be a time-consuming 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 price)!
• Change your furnace air filter regularly. A dirty air filter can cause a lot of problems for your furnace, including making it use more energy or even causing it to malfunction. 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 likely 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 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 down. A new heating system is a big investment, but Speedy Air Conditioning helps make it more affordable through rebates, special offers and financing for qualified customers.

Whenever you have concerns about what is the best temperature to set your thermostat at, energy efficiency during cold weather or any other home comfort issues, Speedy Air Conditioning is here to help you. We’re the heating and cooling company your friends and neighbors have depended on since 1986. Call us at 239-244-3439 to schedule your appointment today.