How Low Can You Set Your Thermostat In Winter?

The cost of living continues to rise, so it’s no surprise that homeowners are looking for ways to save money. If you share a home with someone, you might even argue about when to turn on the heat because you know your energy bill might skyrocket. That begs the question, though — how low can you set your thermostat in winter?

The reality is that, while we can provide some general guidance, Virginia’s weather can be unpredictable. The average house temperature in winter can vary widely from one day to the next. With these tips, though, you should be able to find something that works best for you.

Winter Thermostat Settings: Factors to Consider

Before we get started, let’s go over a few things. The first is that, while wearing layers to save on heating costs is encouraged, you don’t want to take your efforts too far. You deserve to be comfortable in your home, even when you’re trying to save on your utility bill.

Prior to making any changes, there are some factors to consider when determining how low to set your thermostat during winter. Please consider your specific needs along with the following:

• Comfort level: Will everyone inside your home feel warm enough?
• Temperature outside: The colder it is outside, the harder it might be to stay warm indoors.
• Consistency: Is your HVAC maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the house?

Those three factors may be much more important than you realize, so really give them some thought. Ultimately, though, you should heat your home with the most vulnerable members of your family in mind (elderly loved ones and infants, for example). Finding a more energy efficient setting might take a bit of trial and error, but it will be worth it in the end.

Maintaining a Consistent Temperature in Winter

One factor we mentioned was the importance of maintaining a consistent temperature inside your home. It’s a task that is often easier said than done. Here are some common reasons why you might be having problems with this:

• Forgetting to adjust settings.
• Blocked air ducts.
• Poor performance from your HVAC unit.

You probably already know that you can adjust winter thermostat settings to save money. An important part of this is keeping the temperature consistent inside your home. To address the above issues, consider these steps:

• Install a programmable thermostat.
• Change your air filter.
• Have your air ducts cleaned.
• Schedule a maintenance appointment if your HVAC system is underperforming.

Any time you notice issues with your heating system, address them immediately. Sometimes, all it needs is a nice, new filter or a good cleaning. Other times, it might need a tune-up or some repairs. Either way, you won’t know until you have a trained technician look at it. Give yourself peace of mind and save yourself from the inconvenience and expense of a breakdown by calling in a professional.

Once you’re sure everything is in working order, having a programmable thermostat installed can be a game-changer. Not only will it help maintain a consistent temperature in your home, but you’ll save on energy costs.

What’s a Reasonable Temperature For a House in Winter?

The general consensus is that 68 degrees is an ideal indoor temperature during the cooler months. If things feel a bit chilly to you, consider wearing warmer clothing, layers, or even a nice house robe. Adding an extra blanket to your bed (or while you’re sitting on the couch watching television) can make you feel even more comfortable.

Wondering what temperature to set your thermostat when you’re away during winter? According to the U.S. Department of Energy, “When leaving on vacation — usually more than three days — set your thermostat to 50-55 degrees Farenheit in the winter to prevent against freezing pipes.”

 

 

 

 

HVAC Experts in Richmond, VA

W.G. Speeks has been serving the Greater Richmond Region for more than 75 winters. We know how much the weather can fluctuate, so reach out to us for ways to stay comfortable and save money this year (and for years to come). Our technicians are NATE-certified and we offer a no-risk, free consultation to deliver the kind of customer service you deserve.

Not only can we ensure your HVAC unit is running smoothly, but we can provide guidance on a range of cool weather-related topics from installing a programmable thermostat to winterizing your home. We’ll make sure you’re not left out in the cold. Give W.G. Speeks a call today!