- 6 November 2020
- Heating
Like most Canadians, you’re probably looking for ways to minimize your heating bills. However, you still want to stay warm – at least indoors. The ideal temperature for your thermostat in winter would be a setting that allows you to save money on heating and enjoy a reasonable level of home comfort.
But is such a happy medium even possible? And if so, what’s the magic number you should set your thermostat to?
The ideal temperature for your thermostat in winter does, indeed, exist … but it varies. To make the most of your heating budget, you’ll need to lower the thermostat at certain times, raise it at others.
The Minimum Ideal Temperature For Your Thermostat In Winter
Why heat your home when you won’t benefit? Although it may sound like a practical plan to turn your thermostat all the way down before you go to sleep or leave the house, a freezing cold home can seriously harm your pipes, your houseplants, and your poor pets. It’s also much harder to bring back up to a comfortable level when you’re ready.
Here, the ideal, energy-efficient thermostat setting is actually in the range of 17-19°.
The Ideal Temperature For Your Thermostat In Winter When You’re Home & Awake
When you’re home (and not snuggled under a mountain of fuzzy blankets), set the thermostat anywhere from 20-22°, depending on your comfort threshold and level of activity. Obviously, most folks need less heat when they’re sweating on the treadmill, for example, than when they’re enjoying a quiet conversation on the couch. And if your family includes someone especially cold-sensitive, take that into consideration as well.
The point is, so-called “ideal temperature” varies. So forget any old ideas about one perfect thermostat setting. If you’re flexible enough, you can balance comfort and energy savings quite well.
Simplify Energy Savings With A Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is an incredibly handy tool when you’re aiming for the right home temperature at the right time. Just work out your household schedule to see when you’ll need a higher setting, and when it will be fine to cut back on the heat a bit. Then program the thermostat to do your bidding. (If you have a smart programmable thermostat, it will “learn” your routines on its own.)
Then get ready to enjoy a cozy home … and potentially up to 15 percent savings on your fuel bills.
Want To Save Even More On Heating Costs? Try Our Tips
1. Make sure your heat circulates.
Check your vents are not blocked by furniture or curtains. Your heating will be much more efficient when you allow proper airflow for it to circulate. (Speaking of air flow, make sure you change the furnace filter at least every 3 months. Doing so will prevent dreadful issues like a leaking furnace.)
2. Install insulation.
Avoid losing expensive heat to the great outdoors. Insulate your home and seal any cracks. This will save energy all year round, permitting you to set both heat and air conditioning at a more efficient temperature.
3. Tune-up your furnace.
Your furnace is your best friend in a Georgetown winter, so treat it right. Have your furnace professionally cleaned and tuned up at least once a year. A plan for preventive maintenance will help your heating system function more effectively, reduce repairs, and extend its service life.
Get Expert Info On Thermostats & Furnace Maintenance
To heat your home the smart way, talk with the experts at Appleby Home Comfort. We’ll help you choose the right thermostat and tune up or repair your furnace. Enjoy comfortable, affordable warmth this winter, with Appleby.