What's the Best Thermostat Setting for When You're Out of the House?
Even during your time off, there can be an issue with it being overly chilly.
You have packed your luggage and are about to leave for your trip. Hold on a moment: Now is the time to adjust your thermostat before embarking on that long-awaited vacation. Since nobody will be home to maintain their comfort, consider reducing the temperature setting. temperature in winter Or raising it during the summertime can help reduce your actual expenses on utility bills. However, what temperature should you establish for your thermostat when you’re out? Is it possible to completely shut down the furnace? We’ll clarify why making extreme adjustments to your thermostat settings isn’t ideal while you’re on holiday.
By How Much Should You Adjust the Temperature When You're Not Home?
If you’re uncertain about the ideal temperature for your thermostat, the general guideline suggests adjusting it within a range of 5 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Modifying this slightly downward during colder months or upward in warmer ones can be quite beneficial—particularly if you plan an extended journey away from home. The U.S. Department of Energy states that shifting your thermostat by 7-10 degrees for approximately eight hours daily could reduce your heating expenses by around 10%. Making such minor changes allows for modest financial savings and makes it simple to revert temperatures to a pleasant level upon your return.
However, there are exceptions to this rule. When heat pumps need to revert to a comfortable temperature, they consume additional energy, which might mean you won’t achieve the same level of savings as compared to other systems.
The Optimal Thermostat Temperature for a Winter Getaway
Ideally, you could maximize your savings by adjusting the thermostat significantly lower during your skiing vacation or when staying with relatives over the holiday season. However, there’s a point where lowering it too much becomes impractical for keeping your house warm enough. HVAC professionals advise Set the thermostat to 60 degrees Fahrenheit and do not lower it further. Always keep the heat on even when you're out, particularly when frosty conditions are predicted. Should your house get uncomfortably cold, the pipes in unheated spaces face the danger of freezing. Having burst pipes is definitely not what you'd wish to return home to.
The Optimal Thermostat Temperature for a Summer Getaway
During summertime, air conditioning helps decrease moisture levels inside your house, crucial for controlling mold and mildew growth. cool air It also shields wooden furnishings and electronic devices from harm, ensuring the well-being of your household plants and pets. Adjust the thermostat to range from 80 to 85 degrees so that it operates intermittently during your absence.
Additional Suggestions for Conserving Energy While On Holiday
Below are several additional methods to boost energy conservation when you’re not at home:
- Set up a smart thermostat to monitor and adjust the temperature from afar. It enables you to ensure your house will be comfortably heated by the time you arrive.
- Disconnect or switch off power-draining devices such as chargers, minor household gadgets, and electronic equipment that continue to consume electricity when not actively in use. Keep in mind that digital displays also contribute to your energy consumption.
- Close blinds or curtains During summertime, minimize sunlight exposure and maintain a cooler indoor environment.
- Lower the thermostat on your water heater or switch it to vacation mode, ensuring the water stays sufficiently heated to prevent pipe issues.
- When leaving a light on, employ a timer to ensure it switches off during daylight hours.
- Avoid clearing your refrigerator as this reduces its efficiency. Should you worry about food spoilage, fill it instead with water bottles and soft drinks.
Read the initial article on Southern Living
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