It's winter! And that means cold temperatures and big heating costs. If you're looking to cut your energy bills this season without compromising comfort, this guide is for you. We’ll discuss how to make sure your Mission Viejo home stays warm without costing you an arm and a leg. 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 reduce heating bills, as well as a few of our top energy-saving tips for chilly weather.

Our Expert Opinion for the Best Thermostat Settings in Winter

You might be wondering 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 best way to keep heating costs under control.

What Temperature to Set Your Thermostat in Winter During the Day

While Home

The DOE recommends 68 degrees during the day. 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 gathers near the ceiling.
  • Choose energy-efficient window treatments, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters. If your home has old or drafty windows, putting up plastic sheeting or window blankets offers an additional 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 reduce heat loss.

While Gone

If it dips under 30 degrees, setting your thermostat around 64-65 degrees is a smart choice while away. Your furnace won’t be heating 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 advises 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 gradually lowering it over the next couple of days and sleep with more blankets or thicker pajamas.

A Few Other Ways You Can Lower Energy Costs in the Winter

Keeping your thermostat at the right temperature in the winter is a good first step to keeping energy costs down. But there are a few other things you can do to cut your bill.

  • Get a new thermostat. Programmable thermostats are inexpensive, but most households don’t have them set up correctly. If yours is constantly on “hold,” you’re at a disadvantage for energy savings. While you can get your schedule set up, it can be a time-consuming process, especially if your schedule varies from day to day. A smart thermostat can get rid of all those steps because it can develop an energy-efficient heating schedule based on your routine and temperature preferences. Learn how you can get a free smart thermostat (or one at a greatly reduced price)!
  • Change your furnace air filter often. A dirty air filter can cause a lot of problems for your furnace, including making it consume more energy or even causing it to break down. 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 has allergies or asthma, you may want to replace your filter more frequently.
  • Add more insulation. Your home is probably 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 close to 15 years old, it’s time to start considering furnace installation. Upgrading to an ENERGY STAR® furnace can keep you more comfortable while keeping heating costs low. A new heating system is a big investment, but 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning helps make it more affordable through rebates, special offers and financing for qualified customers.

Whenever you have questions about what the best temperature is to set your thermostat to, energy efficiency during winter or any other home comfort issues, 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help you. We’re the heating and cooling company your friends and neighbors have depended on since year. Call us at 949-204-0859 to request your appointment today.