The Best Thermostat Settings to Save Money in Cold Weather

May 1

Every degree counts when it comes to your winter energy bill. Finding the right thermostat settings in cold weather can help you save money while keeping your home comfortable.

Let’s break down the most efficient settings, tips for customizing your home environment, and how smart thermostats can make life easier.

Ideal Thermostat Settings for Cold Weather

According to the U.S. Department of Energy:

Set your thermostat to 68°F while you're awake and at home.
Lower it to 60–62°F while you’re asleep or away.

Doing this consistently can help save as much as 10% per year on heating.

Why It Works: The Science of Indoor Heat

Lowering the thermostat reduces the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures, slowing the rate of heat loss. It also reduces your furnace’s workload, resulting in energy savings and longer equipment life.

The Power of Smart Thermostats

Programmable and Wi-Fi-enabled thermostats take the guesswork out of saving energy:

Create daily heating schedules
Adjust temperatures from your phone
Receive alerts when temps fluctuate unexpectedly
Learn your habits and make automatic changes

Some models even offer geofencing, so your thermostat knows when you’ve left home and can lower temps accordingly.

Tailoring Temps for Comfort

Different rooms and times of day require different levels of heating:

Bedrooms: 60–64°F supports better sleep
Living areas: 68–70°F provides comfort during active hours
Guest rooms: Keep doors closed and vents partially closed to avoid waste

Smart Habits for Energy-Efficient Heating

It’s not just about the thermostat—pair these habits for even better results:

Open blinds during the day to capture natural heat
Use draft stoppers on doors
Dress in layers indoors
Use blankets or heating pads when relaxing

Insight: When Warmer Isn’t Better

Cranking your thermostat to 75°F might feel good short-term, but it makes your system cycle on and off more frequently—causing temperature swings and long-term wear.

Save energy and stay comfortable with small, strategic changes.

👉 Want help choosing the right smart thermostat? Contact Decker Heating & Cooling for expert guidance and installation.

Edythe Palting