Thermostat Wars

Thermostat Wars and the Perfect Temperature

Turn it up or Turn it down?

As winter sets in, thermostat debates heat up! Whether you prefer bundling up or cranking the heat, finding the right temperature isn’t just about comfort—it’s about efficiency too. Experts recommend keeping your indoor temperature between 68°F and 72°F during winter, balancing warmth and energy savings. But where does your thermostat land?

Finding the Right Winter Temperature

Setting your thermostat to 68°F while you’re home provides a great balance between staying warm and keeping energy bills under control. At this temperature, your heating system doesn’t have to work overtime, and you can enjoy a cozy environment without overspending. Of course, every household has its preferences. I personally love the warmth, while my husband prefers it cooler. Staying in the 68°F to 72°F range helps ensure everyone in the home feels comfortable without significantly increasing energy costs. For every degree you raise the thermostat above 68°F, your heating costs can go up by 3-5%. Keeping the temperature lower when possible helps minimize those expenses.

Why Thermostat Placement Matters

Your thermostat’s location plays a key role in maintaining accurate readings and efficient operation. If it’s placed near a drafty window, vent, or exterior door, it may register incorrect temperatures, causing your heating system to run more than necessary. To get accurate readings, install your thermostat in a central, interior location, away from extreme temperature influences. Proper placement ensures your heating system operates efficiently and keeps your home at the desired comfort level.

Adjust or Hold Steady?

There’s a long-standing debate about whether it’s better to adjust your thermostat throughout the day or keep it at a constant temperature. Some HVAC professionals recommend maintaining a consistent temperature, especially for homes with older systems or poor insulation. They argue that frequently adjusting the thermostat forces the system to work harder to bring the house back up to temperature, potentially using more energy. Others suggest lowering the thermostat by 7-10°F when you’re asleep or away from home. This approach can save up to 10% on annual heating costs. A smart thermostat can automate these adjustments, ensuring your home is comfortable when you return while minimizing energy use when you’re away. Your home’s insulation and HVAC system efficiency will determine the best strategy for your situation.

Small Adjustments, Big Savings

Reducing energy costs doesn’t always require major sacrifices. Lowering the heat at night or when you’re out of the house can lead to significant savings. Combine this with warm blankets and cozy clothing to stay comfortable without pushing your HVAC system to its limits. Smart thermostats take the guesswork out of temperature adjustments. With programmable settings and remote control features, these devices optimize your heating schedule for comfort and efficiency. Blue Dot has you Covered A reliable heating system is the foundation of a warm, energy-efficient home. That’s why Blue Dot HVAC offers a $69 heater check-up to ensure your system is running at peak performance this winter. Regular maintenance improves efficiency, prevents breakdowns, and extends the life of your system. Don’t let a neglected heater drive up your energy bills. Call Blue Dot today to schedule your $69 heater check-up and enjoy a comfortable, worry-free winter. Blue Dot is here to help you stay cozy while saving energy and money!

For expert HVAC installation and service, trust Blue Dot Air Conditioning & Heating to guide you every step of the way.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose an air conditioner?

When comparing air conditioning systems, think about the features you care about most. You can look for value, energy efficiency and noise levels and select the model that best matches your needs. ENERGY STAR qualified units, high SEER rated systems and multi-stage systems are all good indicators of air conditioners that will save energy and reduce your energy bills over time.

Do I need HVAC maintenance?

Yes. Regular maintenance is critical to keep your system running efficiently and ensure you maximize the life of the unit. For a very low cost, you can have peace of mind and enjoy better indoor comfort all year long.

What is a split system?

A split system is the most common central air system and includes an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. An air conditioner is an outdoor unit, usually installed in conjunction with a furnace or air handler to provide both heating and cooling comfort.

What is a SEER rating?

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. SEER is the most common way to evaluate an air conditioner’s efficiency and measures how much energy it takes to keep your home at the temperature you choose.