It's easy to forget about your thermostat, but it significantly impacts your energy bills. The right setting can save you money while still keeping you comfortable.
The ideal temperature heavily depends on your region and the time of the year. A general rule of thumb is to set your thermostat as close to the outside temperature during the day as possible for the biggest savings. The smaller the difference between the temperatures, the less work your heating and cooling system will have to do and the less energy it will use. According to Energy.gov, by setting your thermostat back 7-10 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 hours each day, you can save up to 10 percent every year on your energy bills.
Thermostat settings for the summer
In the summer, try to keep your indoor temperature as high as you can comfortably stand it. Most people can set their thermostat to around 78 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. Keeping in mind the humidity levels for your region, 78 degrees will keep your inside temperature close to the outside to avoid overworking your system. By making this adjustment, you could save up to 8 percent off your energy bill.
Thermostat settings for the winter
In the winter, the ideal indoor temperature is around 68 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. The good thing about this temperature in the wintertime is that you can layer with clothes and warm blankets to maintain your warmth. This lower indoor temperature will slow the heat loss your home experiences, saving energy. Adjusting your thermostat settings could save you up to 15 percent in energy usage every year.
Thermostat settings for when you’re away or asleep
When leaving for extended periods, you don’t want your system running continuously while you’re not there. If you are away from home for more than four hours, it’s recommended to adjust the temperature 5 to 8 degrees, up in the summer and down in the winter. It is also a good idea to adjust the thermostat settings for bedtime. If you like to sleep with lots of blankets, you’ll be glad to hear that the optimal temperature for the most restful sleep ranges between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit. Setting your thermostat back a few degrees can help you sleep better and save energy (and money)!
Programmable thermostat
Though you can make manual adjustments, the easiest way to stay on top of your thermostat settings is with a programmable thermostat. These types of thermostats allow you to customize settings based on your needs. You can adjust the temperature in your home for the time of day or day of the week and not have to worry about doing it manually. Program your thermostat to lower the temperature at bedtime and then increase it when you wake up to avoid discomfort. Take advantage of energy-saving features such as vacation settings and daily schedules; some even offer remote access so you can make adjustments on the go.
Setting your thermostat is a simple way to save money on energy bills and protect the environment. No one wants to sacrifice comfort, so it’s essential to have a well-insulated and tightly sealed home. Your Stanley Martin home is built for maximum comfort and savings. Knowing the best way to set your thermostat will save you even more energy and money.