It's winter! And that means low temperatures and big heating costs. If you're looking to reduce your energy bills this season without compromising comfort, this guide is for you. We’ll review how to make sure your Oxford home stays cozy without costing you a fortune. 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 go over how getting a smart thermostat can keep heating bills low, as well as a few of our top energy-saving tips for cold weather.

Our Expert Opinion for Energy Efficient Thermostat Settings in Winter

You might be wondering if 70 is a good temperature for the winter. It can be, but it also depends on your comfort needs 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 chilly, there are a couple of other ways you can stay warm.

  • 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, such as 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 daytime. Don’t forget to shut them at night to reduce heat loss.

While Gone

If it dips below 30 degrees, setting your thermostat around 64-65 degrees is a wise choice while away. Your furnace won’t be heating an empty home, but it’ll be easy for the temperature to bounce back when you return.

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 comfortable 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 chilly if you’re used to a higher temperature. If you’re used to sleeping at 68 degrees, try gradually lowering it over the next few days and sleep with more blankets or thicker pajamas.

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

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

  • Get a new thermostat. Programmable thermostats are cheap, but most households don’t have them set up properly. If yours is constantly on “hold,” you’re missing out on energy savings. While you can program yours, it can be a lengthy process, especially if your schedule varies from day to day. A smart thermostat can eliminate all that work because it can develop an energy-efficient heating schedule based on your routine and temperature preferences. Find out how you can get a free smart thermostat (or one at a greatly reduced cost)!
  • Change your furnace air filter regularly. A dirty air filter can cause a lot of problems for your furnace, including making it use more energy or even causing it to break down. That’s why it’s important to change yours every 30 days 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 suffers from allergies or asthma, you may want to change your filter more often.
  • 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 require 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 thinking about furnace installation. Getting an ENERGY STAR® furnace can keep you comfier while keeping heating costs down. A new heating system is a big investment, but Franklin's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc 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 cold weather or any other home comfort questions, Franklin's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc is here to assist you. We’re the heating and cooling company your friends and neighbors have trusted since year. Call us at 662-281-1231 to request your appointment now.