Neither 60 nor 80, this is the ideal temperature to keep your home warm and save on your electricity bill this winter
A careful approach to heating your home, including a few useful tips, means warmth doesn’t have to come at great expense.
As winter approaches, many homeowners grapple with the challenge of maintaining a warm and comfortable home while keeping electricity bills in check. Indeed, electricity and gas are 10% more expensive than they were at the same stage last year.
While some may instinctively set their thermostats to 60°F or 80°F, research suggests that there is a more optimal temperature that strikes a balance between comfort and energy efficiency.
Ram Narayanamurthy, deputy director of the Department of Energy’s Building Technologies Office, told USA TODAY that temperatures between 68 and 70 degrees are prefereable.
“A home that’s at 70 degrees is quite comfortable,” Narayanamurthy said.
Why 68°F?
Setting your thermostat to 68°F during the day offers several benefits. This temperature is warm enough to keep your living spaces cozy without overworking your heating system. According to the Department of Energy, for every degree you lower your thermostat during the winter, you can save about 3% on your heating bill. This tempertaure means you can enjoy a comfortable environment while minimizing the risk of drafts or cold spots in your home and without breaking the bank.
This temperature is also ideal for promoting better sleep at night; experts recommend lowering the thermostat further to around 60-67°F while sleeping for optimal rest. For those particularly sensitive to cold, consider layering clothing or using blankets instead of cranking up the heat.
Investing in a smart thermostat can further enhance your energy savings. These devices allow you to program different temperatures for various times of the day, ensuring that your home remains warm when you’re there but saves energy when you’re away. Additionally, zoning systems can help direct heat only where it’s needed, preventing unnecessary heating of unused rooms.
Additional Tips for Winter Savings
- Seal drafts: Ensure windows and doors are properly sealed to prevent heat loss.
- Use curtains wisely: Open them during sunny days to let in natural warmth and close them at night.
- Maintain your heating system: Regular maintenance can improve efficiency and prolong the life of your system.
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