As temperatures begin to drop – winter in the northern hemisphere starts next week – what temperature should your thermostat be set to?
Some say you should set your thermostat to temperatures “as low as comfort allows,” after all, about 3% more energy is used for every degree above 68 degrees Fahrenheit. The U.S. Department of Energy agrees, stating that 68 degrees is the ideal temperature.
However, setting the thermostat to a specific temperature and never changing it may not be good for your bills at the end of the month. Thus, keeping the temperature lower while you sleep at night or when you are not home can help you save some money.
But keeping the temperature too low can put your health at risk, according to the New York State Department of Health. The World Health Organization recommends maintaining indoor temperatures between 18 and 24 degrees Celsius (68F to 75F) for healthy individuals, and for those who are very young, elderly, or have health issues, the minimum temperature should not drop below 20 degrees Celsius (68F).
How to save money on your energy bill this winter?
RG&E and Con Edison have offered some tips on how to save energy and money this winter:
§ Install a programmable or Wi-Fi thermostat to automatically control your heating and save money by lowering the temperature when you are not home.
§ Keep the area around heating and cooling vents clear, as carpets, furniture, and other objects can block vents and prevent heated air from circulating in your home.
§ If you use electric heating, consider replacing it with a high-efficiency ductless mini-split heat pump system, which can reduce electricity usage by up to 40%.
§ Insulate hot water pipes and hot air ducts that run through unheated areas.
§ Clean or replace heater filters as recommended and have a professional check and clean the heater burner annually.
§ Change blinds seasonally, as light-colored curtains reflect sunlight energy, while darker ones absorb it and release heat.
§ Install high-efficiency LED lighting, as it uses 90% less energy than standard incandescent bulbs and lasts up to 25 times longer.
• Proper insulation and air sealing can maximize your home’s heating efficiency and improve comfort, as old or improperly installed insulation can lead to a loss of up to 30% of your home’s heating or air conditioning.
Source: Lohud