Finding that perfect balance between staying warm and not breaking the bank is the ultimate winter challenge for homeowners. If you’ve been staring at your thermostat wondering if there’s a “right” answer, we have some good news.
According to the Department of Energy, there is a “Sweet Spot” for winter savings, and that number is 68 degrees.
Here is why this number is magic for your wallet and how you can stay cozy without the “bill shock” at the end of the month.
Why 68 Degrees?
It sounds specific, but there is a bit of science behind it. The closer your indoor temperature is to the outdoor temperature, the slower your home loses heat. By keeping your thermostat at 68 degrees while you are awake and active at home, you significantly reduce the energy required to maintain a comfortable environment.
The payoff? You can save as much as 10% a year on heating and cooling by simply turning your thermostat back 7-10 degrees from its normal setting for eight hours a day.
How to Master the “Sweet Spot”
The Nighttime “Setback” – When you’re tucked under the blankets or away at work, your home doesn’t need to be 68 degrees. Dropping the temp to 62 or 65 degrees during these times is where the real savings happen. If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, you can automate this so you never have to wake up to a freezing house.
The “Heat Pump” Trap – If you have a heat pump (which many of our customers do), be careful! If you wake up and “crank” the heat from 62 degrees to 70 degrees all at once, you might trigger your Emergency Heat (Auxiliary Heat). This uses expensive electric heat strips that can skyrocket your bill.
The Pro Tip: Adjust your temperature in small increments, or let your smart thermostat handle the “recovery” gradually.
Dress for the Season – If 68 feels a little brisk at first, remember that winter comfort is about more than just the furnace.
Layer up: A cozy sweatshirt or a pair of wool socks can make 68 feel like 72.
Check your humidity: Dry air feels colder. Adding a whole-home humidifier allows you to feel warmer at lower temperatures because moist air holds heat better!
Small Changes, Big Impact
At the end of the day, your HVAC system is the biggest energy consumer in your home. Taking control of that “Magic Number” is the fastest way to lower your overhead.
Is your system struggling to hit 68 degrees?
If your heater is running constantly but your house still feels chilly, it’s likely not a thermostat issue—it could be a dirty filter, leaky ducts, or a system that needs a tune-up.
Would you like us to come by for a Winter Comfort Audit? Give us a call today and let’s make sure your home is running at peak efficiency!
