Utilizing recommended temperature settings can be great for energy costs. According to Energy.gov, you can save up to 10% on heating and cooling costs by turning the thermostat seven to ten degrees in the winter and setting it as high as you can tolerate in the summer.
Best Heat Settings for Winter
Most people find that keeping the thermostat set to 68 degrees during winter keeps the home comfortable while also controlling heating costs. At night, or during the day when no one is home, set the thermostat eight to ten degrees cooler to save even more.
Average house temperatures may vary based on your schedule and needs. For example, on weekends, if people in your household wake up later, you probably don’t need to raise the temperature to 68 degrees until at least 9 am. On weekdays, you might want to set the thermostat to 68 degrees sooner for the early risers.
Rather than raising the temperature in your home during the winter months, consider bundling up in a blanket and warm clothes.
Best Cooling Settings for Summer
It’s generally recommended to set your thermostat to 75 degrees or above for cost-effective cooling during the summer. Your family’s habits and work schedules might allow you to keep the house warmer longer. For example, if no one is home during the day, when it’s generally warmer, you can keep the thermostat higher to save money on your energy bills. When determining the best temperature for your home during the summer, it’s best to consult with your family and find out what everyone is comfortable with.
Utilize a Programmable Thermostat
The key to making these recommended thermostat setting changes effortless is utilizing a programmable thermostat. You can set different temperatures to different times of the day and even specific days of the week. Some households set the temperature differently according to the family’s work schedules during the week. The thermostat can be programmed to accommodate these household settings.
Stay Up to Date on Routine Maintenance for your Furnace and AC Unit
Keeping up to date with routine maintenance for your furnace and AC unit can keep energy costs low while giving you peace of mind. At Sky Air & Heat, we provide routine HVAC maintenance for our clients. Schedule your HVAC check-up today!
