There’s a magic number that the U.S. Department of Energy says is perfect for heating your home in the winter.
7 ways to stay warm at home this fall and winter while saving money
Steve Gadsby, owner of heating and cooling company FurnaceUSA, shares his top tips for keeping your home warm and lowering your energy bills.
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It’s every year that when the weather gets colder, coats, hats, sweaters, and blankets come out. The light will turn on faster. And then the discussion begins about how high or low to set the thermostat.
But there’s a magic number that the U.S. Department of Energy says is optimal for heating your home in the winter. It’s 68 degrees when you’re awake and a little lower when you’re asleep or away from home. And that sweet spot can help you save energy and money while keeping your home comfortable and warm, according to Energy.gov.
By using a programmable thermostat and setting it to fit your family’s schedule, such as when you’re home, when you go to bed, and when you’re out for work or school, you can maintain a consistent temperature so your home doesn’t wake up too warm or too cold when you get home.
Proper thermostat settings can save you money
Energy costs are rising, rising by 41% since 2020, outpacing inflation due to a combination of factors such as climate change, inflation, and increased demand from artificial intelligence.
JD Power reports that the average electricity bill is $184 per month. The average gas bill is about $141 a month, and the average water bill is about $99 a month, a total of $122 more than your 2020 utility bill.
According to Energy.gov, keeping temperatures 7 to 10 degrees cooler than normal can save you as much as 10 percent a year on heating and cooling costs, with homes in warmer climates saving even more than those in harsher climates.
Tips for keeping your home warm in winter
There are ways to keep the cold from entering your home.
- Check your windows and doors for drafts, and if you notice cold air coming in, protect your windows with weather-resistant tape or caulk.
- Keep heating ducts and vents clean and uncovered.
- Check the air filter and replace if necessary.
- Schedule a tune-up for your furnace or heating unit.
- Fill up heating fuels such as oil, gas, and firewood early.
- Check your thermostat to make sure it’s working properly.
Surprising benefits of a cold house
The cooler the temperature in your home, the slower heat is lost. So, according to Energy.gov, keeping your thermostat at a lower temperature can help keep your home warmer and actually save you energy. The Department of Energy’s website has additional information, including the type of heating unit that is best for your home, maintenance tips, and more.
Additional tips include:
- Clean hot air registers, baseboard heaters, and radiators and make sure there are no obstructions.
- Eliminate air from hot water radiators. If you don’t know how, consult a professional.
- Please turn off ventilation fans in the kitchen and bathroom within 20 minutes after use.
- If you’re replacing your heating and cooling equipment, get a home energy audit and choose energy-efficient products.
Contributor: Daniel de Visé, USA TODAY. Eric Lagatta, Maria Francis, Cheryl Makin, USA TODAY Network
