Finding the perfect temperature to put your thermostat at can be very difficult. Though increasing the temperature during the winter provides you with warmth and comfort, it also raises your heating bill. Some believe the pros outweigh the cons in this case, but others would disagree. Here are the best tips for your winter thermostat to keep your house warm as well as save on your heating bill.
Keep a Constant Temperature
Though it may be hard to do during these months, keeping your thermostat at a constant temperature throughout the year will keep your heater from overworking. If you raise the temperature just a little bit, it could raise your heating bill. To best save money, you should gradually decrease your thermostat as you get acclimated to temperature. You may have to bundle up to start this, but in the end your body will get used to it and you will save money. The optimal setting is typically 68 degrees Fahrenheit.
Turn It Down at Night or Away
One of the more effective ways to save money is to lower the temperature at night or when out of the household. Lowering the thermostat 7-10 degrees has been shown to reduce your heating expenses by up to 10%! For each degree that you lower it, you could potentially be saving 3% on heating costs. When you get back you can turn it back up to its previous setting, but when sleeping or away, the change will not affect you.
Find the Right Location for Your Thermostat
Something many people do not take into consideration is the location of your thermostat. If you install it in the wrong place, it could give back “ghost readings”, or inaccurate temperatures. Some examples of places that would conflict with a thermostat are places near drafts, sunlight, or doorways. Setting your thermostat correctly ensures that you do not raise or lower the temperature in vain,. This leads to an unexpected rise in heating costs. The most efficient place to install your thermostat is in an interior wall with natural air flow. Along with finding the right location, finding the right product will help you save money. The ductless mini split systems, for example, are a great way to save money on your heating bill due to its ability to transfer heat rather than generate it.
There are many ways you can go about getting the right temperature that makes you comfortable. However, by following these tips about controlling your winter thermostat, you can be sure to stay warm and save money! If you are looking for a heating and cooling company to install a thermostat in your household, or are struggling to find the right location to put it, feel free to reach out to River View Heating & Cooling today!