It happens each year when the weather turns cold: The coats, hats, sweaters and blankets come out. The lights come on earlier. And the arguments over how high or low to set the thermostat begin.
But there’s a magic number that the U.S. Department of Energy says is optimal for home heating in the winter: 68 degrees when you’re awake, and a little lower than that when you’re asleep or away from home. And that sweet spot, says Energy.gov, will help save energy and money while keeping your house comfortably warm.
Having a programmable thermostat and setting it according to your household schedule — when you’re home, when you’re asleep, when you’re out for work or school — helps keep temperatures consistent so you’re not waking up to a house that’s too warm or coming home to one that’s too cold.
The right thermostat setting can save you money
Energy costs are climbing, spiraling as high as 41% since 2020, outpacing inflation due to a combination of factors including climate change, inflation and increased demand due to artificial intelligence.
J.D. Power reports the average electric bill is $184 a month. Average gas bills are about $141 and water is around $99 a month — together, $122 higher than utility bills in 2020.
Energy.gov says keeping temps about 7 to 10 degrees lower than normal can save as much as 10% a year on heating and cooling costs, and homes in milder climates can save even more than those in harsher ones.
Tips for keeping your home warm in winter
There are also ways to keep the cold from creeping into your house.
- Check windows and doors for drafts, and if cold is getting in, winterize windows with weather-sealing tape and caulk.
- Keep heating ducts and vents clean and uncovered.
- Check air filters and replace them if needed.
- Schedule a tune-up for your furnace or heating unit.
- Fill up early on heating fuels like oil, gas or firewood.
- Check the thermostat to make sure it’s working properly.
The surprising upside of a cold-ish home
The lower the temperature inside your home, the more slowly you’ll lose heat. So keeping the thermostat at lower temperatures actually saves energy by helping your home retain warmth, according to Energy.gov. The Department of Energy has additional information, including what type of heating unit may be best for your home, maintenance tips and more, on its website.
