As winter gets closer and the temperature drops, finding ways to save money on your heating bills becomes a top priority. One of the simplest ways is adjusting your thermostat settings to optimize energy usage without compromising comfort.

With numerous options and techniques available, you can lower your heating costs while still making your home cozy throughout the chilly season. Whether you prefer a programmable thermostat or manual device, there are plenty of ways to find the appropriate balance between warmth and savings.

As a whole, a good rule is the lower the temperature in your home and the less difference there is between the air inside your home and the exterior temperature, the more money you will save on heating.

Money-Saving Thermostat Settings While You Are at Home

When you’re going to be home, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recommends dialing your thermostat to between 68°F and 70°F in the winter. That’s warm enough to keep most families comfy, but also low enough to be energy efficient.

Effective Temperature Settings While You Not at Home

The DOE estimates you can save approximately 10% on your HVAC costs by decreasing your thermostat 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. This way, you’re not needlessly spending money heating your home while you’re not there.

Experts say, if you are going on vacation or will be gone a long period of time, you can put your thermostat as low as 50 degrees. That will keep your furnace running so you don’t have any frozen or burst pipes waiting for you when you get home.

When you get back to your house, raise the temperature little by little. That will keep your heating system from working too hard, which it could if you raise the temperature on your thermostat really high right away.

Suggested Thermostat Settings While You Are in Bed for The Night

The nice thing about sleep-time thermostat settings in the winter is that people get good sleep when it’s a little colder. The National Sleep Foundation says somewhere between 66 and 70 degrees is the best temperature range for quality sleep.

Additional Techniques to Use Less Energy on Your HVAC in Winter

There are a number of other techniques you can employ so you consume less energy this winter while you heat your home. They include:

Evaluate your insulation levels

Insulate doors, windows and walls to minimize drafts, keep warm air inside and prevent heat loss. This will limit the pressure on your HVAC system and save energy.

Set up a programmable thermostat

Install a programmable thermostat to manage the temperature in your home efficiently. Set lower temperatures when you're away or asleep and increase them only when necessary.

For even more savings, buy a smart thermostat that can detect when you are in or out and modify the temperature appropriately. To learn more about these devices or for smart thermostat installation in The Bay Area, contact the skilled technicians at Contra Costa Heating & AC. We can explain how smart thermostats can improve your home's comfort—and your pocketbook.

H3: Schedule furnace maintenance:

Plan regular maintenance for your heating system. A well-maintained furnace functions more efficiently, decreasing energy consumption and potentially avoiding costly repairs. Clean or exchange air filters routinely to assure proper airflow.

For furnace maintenance in The Bay Area, call the team at Contra Costa Heating & AC. Our trained technicians will get your system in excellent working order!

Seal air leaks

Locate and close off any air leaks in your home. Common spots for leaks including windows, doors, attic hatches and ductwork. Plugging these gaps blocks warm air from seeping out, making your HVAC system work less to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Improve your HVAC system

If your HVAC equipment is old, inefficient or just isn’t able to keep your home as warm as you want, furnace replacement may be a smart long-term option. Modern day furnaces are highly efficient, which can significantly decrease your monthly bills compared to an old or inefficient model.

If you’re thinking about getting a new heating system, phone the professionals at Contra Costa Heating & AC. We’re recognized for knowledgeable furnace installation in The Bay Area and will help you select a unit that’s well suited for your home! Call 510-343-9841 today to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate!