“What should my thermostat be set to during winter? I want to be comfortable, but I also want to save money.” Question submitted by Ashley P., Herndon, VA

This is an excellent question that most homeowners should be asking when attempting to be more frugal during winter. Where you set our thermostat can determine comfort, efficiency, and savings all year, but especially on very cold days when you just want to crank it up to 75.

According to ENERGY STAR®, a homeowner could save as much as 10% yearly in HVAC costs by turning their thermostat back 7–10 degrees Fahrenheit for eight hours a day. While this may be economical for everyone, it might not be comfortable for some. Energy.gov suggests setting your thermostat to 68 degrees Fahrenheit during winter.

Sixty-eight degrees is warm enough so you don’t feel like you’re living in an igloo to save money but low enough to maintain a reasonable utility bill. This temperature should be set while you’re home and awake. At night, or when you’re away, consider lowering your thermostat. 

Wondering about your pets? If you have furry family members in your home and you don’t want to lower your temperatures to extremes while you’re away, energy.gov suggests that 64 degrees Fahrenheit is safe for your pets, since they have more natural coping mechanisms for slightly colder weather (they’re wearing a fur coat, after all.)

If you have fish, amphibious, or reptile pets, be sure not to drop temperatures too low, as fish and other tropical animals don’t do well in the cold. 

Programmable Thermostats Can Help

One of the best ways to maintain your heating schedule is by installing a programmable thermostat. These allow you to determine exactly what works with your home and family, set it, and forget it.

Most systems let you make changes on your mobile device, so it’s convenient to adjust the temperature from afar if needed. 

Want to learn more about heating your home comfortably and efficiently? Call F.H. Furr Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning & Electrical to speak with us today.