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 review how to make sure your Chelan and Wenatchee home stays warm 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 installing a smart thermostat can reduce heating bills, as well as a few of our favorite energy-saving tips for cold weather.

Our Recommendations 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 smartest way to keep heating costs down.

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 chilly, there are a couple of other ways you can stay warm.

  • Run your ceiling fan in reverse when you’re in a room. This redistributes hot air that accumulates near the ceiling.
  • Choose energy-efficient window treatments, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters. If your home has old or drafty windows, installing plastic sheeting or window blankets offers an extra barrier against the cold.
  • Maximize natural warmth by opening south-facing window treatments during daytime. Don’t forget to close them at night to minimize heat loss.

While Gone

If it dips under 30 degrees, setting your thermostat around 64-65 degrees is a wise 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 recover when you return.

You may want to set the thermostat somewhat 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 comfortable 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 recommends a thermostat setting of 64-65 degrees.

That might seem too cold if you’re accustomed to a higher temperature. If you’re used to sleeping at 68 degrees, try progressively lowering it over the next few 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 ideal 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 cut your bill.

  • Upgrade your thermostat. Programmable thermostats are inexpensive, but most households don’t have them set up correctly. If yours is always on “hold,” you’re at a disadvantage for energy savings. While you can get your schedule set up, it can be a lengthy process, especially if your schedule fluctuates from day to day. A smart thermostat can eliminate all those steps 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 cost)!
  • Replace 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 replace yours every 30 days 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 replace your filter more often.
  • Add extra 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 nearly 15 years old, it’s time to start thinking about furnace installation. Installing an ENERGY STAR® furnace can keep you comfier while keeping heating costs down. A new heating system is a major investment, but Lakeside Heating & Air 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 issues, Lakeside Heating & Air is here to assist you. We’re the heating and cooling company your friends and neighbors have depended on since year. Call us at 509-284-4265 to schedule your appointment now.