Some like it hot; some like it cold. That can mean disagreements over the optimal temperature for your HVAC thermostat settings in winter. Fitch Services has some tips on where to set your thermostat to keep harmony in your home and your heating bills down.
There are various reasons for preferring a particular HVAC winter temperature. Grandma might want to keep things cozy at 75 degrees while Mom likes a cool room in the low 60s for sleeping. And everyone likes to pay less for their HVAC heating bills. So, let’s break it down and let you decide on the best thermostat setting for your home this winter. (And here’s a hint: It might change based on time of day and how many people are home!)
Most Efficient Winter HVAC Settings
Technology is a wonder, and that’s the reason so many people are choosing to install smart thermostats. They let the homeowner adjust the HVAC settings all day and night. According to Energy Star, in the winter months, it’s most efficient to set your thermostat to 68 degrees during the day and lower it by 10 to 12 degrees at night. Sure, you might need to bundle up and pile on the blankets but you could save close to $100 a year on your heating bills.
Winter Thermostat Settings That Keep Everyone Happy
Sometimes comfort trumps lower bills, and if you have particularly persistent family members who don’t like a chill, you’ll probably want to set your winter HVAC temperature at 71. That’s the number used by most restaurants and malls because it just feels good— warm but not too hot. You’ll pay the price for this comfort though, especially during the coldest months of the year when your HVAC will have to work hard to keep up. You can mitigate the cost a bit by lowering your thermostat at least five degrees when no one is home or when you have multiple people in the space since body heat can make up some of the difference.
Healthiest Winter HVAC Temperature
You eat your kale and hit the gym at least three times a week, so it makes sense you’d want to choose the winter HVAC temperature that’s best for your body. Okay, we get it. So, let’s consider what science says.
An indoor temperature of between 60 and 67 degrees is best, according to the Cleveland Clinic. A temperature above 70 degrees disrupts REM sleep. Below 60 degrees, your blood vessels constrict, and your breathing may become more shallow as your body works harder to warm itself. An exception to this temperature range is for babies, who should sleep in a room that’s between 65 and 70 degrees.
Now that you’ve considered the reasons behind winter HVAC thermostat settings for winter, you’re ready to hunker down for the season. Maybe you’ll be bundled up inside or maybe you’ll choose to keep it warm all the time. It’s your house, after all! If you have any concerns with your HVAC system this winter, Fitch Services is here to help. Contact us at 434-296-9980 with any questions you may have.
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Real Reviews from Your Charlottesville Neighbors
See All ReviewsJulie D. (Charlottesville, VA)I can’t say enough good things!! We had an emergency, no AC during the 113+ heat wave on a Friday holiday afternoon (worst timing!!!). I called multiple companies and only Fitch called me back.
Larry was fantastic!! He kept me informed as to when he anticipated getting to us, and called when on his way, and showed up when he said he would.
He was, again, fantastic! Explained the issue and promptly fixed it. Our house was literally 98 degrees. Everything is running smoothly!
And, for an emergency call late on a Friday afternoon, the cost was incredibly reasonable.
I highly HIGHLY recommend their services. We now have them on speed dial and will absolutely be using them again for our needs, even for other services they offer we have yet to use.
Again, thank you Larry & Fitch Services from us and our pups - for being there when we needed you most and delivering exceptional customer service. 5 stars for sure!
Barbara M. (Charlottesville, VA)I am proud to say I have been a client of Fitch Services since they began. My family has always received courteous and timely service for plumbing, heating and air conditioning, and electrical issues. They have installed and maintain a whole house generator. That was a fantastic decision. I use their annual maintenance plans for all of my systems. I personally recommend Fitch Services.
John K. (Charlottesville, VA)I knew of Fitch Services and their technicians via my place of employment. The technician's honest and forthright approach to their work was very much appreciated... They were initially contacted to come to our residence to address a clogged kitchen sink drain line. It was suggested to us we replace the drain line instead of snaking it. When the old drain line was cut out and shown to me, it was amazing anything had gotten through that line! Glad we chose to replace it... We also inquired about replacing/updating all the galvanized supply lines in our home. The scope of the work needed and how it would be done was discussed to make sure we understood... We appreciated the honest assessment of how the project might or would go. While the technicians were on our project, they kept us updated with daily conversations towards the end of their working day. The finished project has been great! We were excited to finally have full flow of the hot water! Fitch is now our 'go to' plumber.
Tom P. (Charlottesville, VA)I've used Fitch for a few years now for both electrical and plumbing work. They are professional and do a great job on things both big and small. Twice we have had pretty huge jobs and they have come in under budget. Plus, the service technicians are friendly and work hard and the office staff communicates very well. Definitely recommend!
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