What Temperature Should You Set Your Thermostat At For Efficiency?

Have you ever received your utility bill and wondered why it’s so high? What can you do to control the costs?

Your heating and cooling system account for as much as half of the costs. There are factors that can improve efficiency:

• Newer houses, in general, are more efficient

• Proper insulation

• The location of your home

• How big your house is

• How much sunlight streams into your home


But it’s not just how well your home was built. Where you set your thermostat matters too.

Is there an ideal temperature to set your thermostat at? There are a few factors that matter.

The key to striking a balance between comfort and efficiency is to pay attention to where you set the temperature. If you want to save money on your utility bills, less is more. Adjust it down a few degrees in the winter, and up a few in the summer. The general consensus for temperatures is to leave your thermostat at 68 in the winter and 78 in the summer for a perfect balance.

Of course, that’s for the average person. Only you know what’s best for your home and family.

If you live with infants, seniors, or anyone with a chronic illness, comfort may be more important than efficiency. Temperature guidelines
change to 74 in the winter and 72 in the summer.

It’s important to remember pets also fall into this category. Furry friends might prefer a cooler home, lying in the sunshine when they want to feel the heat. But if you have reptiles, heat is more vital for their care.

Your thermostat plays an important role in efficiency. And few homes are comfortable in every room, every month of the year.

Humidity plays a big part. If your home is too dry, you’re going to notice it in the winter. If your rooms are exposed to different levels
of light, you’ll have hot and cold spots throughout your home.

Using a programmable thermostat can allow you to strike a balance between comfort and efficiency. And by using smart technology, you can control everything easier at the touch of a button.

It might also make sense to install a zoning HVAC system. This gives you the opportunity to control how much heated or cooled air flows through to separate areas of your home, all at the touch of a button.

If you have more questions about how your thermostat plays a role in creating efficient living space, give us a call today.