Sunday, May 20, 2018

When we experience extreme weather, it can be tempting to crank the thermostat up or down. While it may seem like a good idea at the time, the constant change in temperature can cause your energy bills to sky-rocket. Truthfully, you don't need to pay extra in order to be comfortable in your home.

Summer Months For maximum savings and ultimate comfort, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78 degrees. While that may seem high, there are extra steps you can take to cool down your home:

• Install a dehumidifier, which will make your home feel significantly cooler by removing humidity from the air
• Close blinds and drapes to block sunlight
• Install ceiling fans or stand-alone fans to increase air circulation
• Caulk around doors and windows to ensure they are sealed
• Install weatherstripping to keep hot air out
• It may be time to upgrade your cooling system, and replace it with a high efficiency model. You can read more about that here.

Winter Months It will vary depending on the age of your home and the efficiency of your system, we suggest you keep your thermostat between 68 and 72 degrees. 

• Install weatherstripping to keep the chill out and the heat in
• Invest in an electric blanket, which will keep you warm during cold nights
• Install a humidifier. Humidity will trap the warm air and keep your home warmer longer
• Update insulation. Without proper insulation, warm air will escape quickly, causing your energy bills to increase

Nighttime and Away Settings Adjusting your thermostat strategically can save up to 10% off your monthly bill. While changing the temperature too often can cause your bills to rise, a smart approach to temperature can save you thousands in the long run.

Adjust your thermostat seven to ten degrees when gone for 8 hours or more. For instance, while you are away at work, lower your thermostat seven to ten degrees. When you arrive home, adjust it to a comfortable temperature (or if you have a smart thermostat, you can set it from your desk!).

When leaving town for a long trip, adjust your thermostat seven to ten degrees, and make sure to remove any timers or settings that would automatically shift the temperature.

Smart Thermostats Smart thermostats are a home owners best friend, especially when it comes to convenience and energy savings. Smart thermostats, like the Nest, keep track of your habits and automatically adjust to meet your needs. Also, the Nest can be controlled from an app, so you can keep an eye on the temperature while at the office or on vacation.