It's winter! And that means low temperatures and high heating costs. If you're looking to cut your energy bills this season without compromising comfort, this guide is for you. We’ll review how to make sure your Highlands Ranch home stays cozy without costing you an arm and a leg. With these tips, it'll be easy to keep warm all winter long!

Let’s review what temperature to set your thermostat in winter:

  • While you’re home during the day.
  • While sleeping at night.
  • While you’re away.

We’ll also review how getting a smart thermostat can reduce heating bills, as well as a few of our favorite energy-saving tips for chilly weather.

Our Recommendations 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 depends 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 daytime. If you’re feeling too cold, 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 hot air that accumulates near the ceiling.
  • Select 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 provides 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 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 smart choice while gone. Your furnace won’t be pumping a lot of heat into an empty home, but it’ll be easy for the temperature to bounce back when you return.

You may want to set the thermostat slightly higher if you have a dog, particularly 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 get a better night’s sleep. The National Sleep Foundation advises a thermostat setting of 64-65 degrees.

That might seem too chilly if you’re used to a warmer 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 warmer pajamas.

Additional to Manage 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 steps you can take to trim 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 program yours, it can be a lengthy process, especially if your schedule changes from day to day. A smart thermostat can eliminate all that work because it can create 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 use more energy or even causing it to malfunction. That’s why it’s important to change yours every month if you use a flat filter. Or every 90 days if you use a pleated filter. If you have pets or someone in your home has allergies or asthma, you may want to change your filter more often.
  • Add more insulation. Your home is likely 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 need 13-14".
  • Install a new furnace. If your HVAC system is close to 15 years old, it’s time to start considering furnace installation. Getting an ENERGY STAR® furnace can keep you more comfortable while keeping heating costs down. A new heating system is a major investment, but PS Cool Heat helps make it more affordable through rebates, special offers and financing for qualified customers.

Whenever you have concerns about what the best temperature is to set your thermostat to, energy efficiency during winter or any other home comfort issues, PS Cool Heat is here to help you. We’re the heating and cooling company your friends and neighbors have relied on since year. Call us at 720-613-2210 to request your appointment today.