An arctic blast sweeping over the Northeast has kicked off the winter season, bringing freezing temperatures to New Jersey days and nights.
You may be wondering what temperature to set your thermostat to balance warming up the house and cooling down your heating bill.
Whether heating your home via propane, natural gas, oil, electric or wood, heating costs are sure to factor while also trying to find the most comfortable heat setting for your home and family.
Here’s what to know about temperature settings and energy saving tips.
What temperature should you set thermostat at in the winter?
How hot you want your home can be a personal preference, however, according to Energy.gov, the ideal temperature is 68 degrees.
The Department of Energy suggests keeping temps between 68-70 degrees when you are at home and recommends lowering it while sleeping or away from home as a way to save energy.
The World Health Organization recommends indoor temperatures be set between 64 and 75 degrees for healthy people. However, for the very young, elderly or those with health problems, the minimum temperature shouldn’t dip below 68.
Deputy director Ram Narayanamurthy of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Building Technologies Office states anywhere around 70 degrees is a good target when it’s cold.
But there are tips and tricks to stay warm while trying to save money on energy costs.
Energy-saving tips to help lower heating bills
According to the Energy Department, turning thermostats back 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours a day can save as much as 10% a year on homeowners’ heating costs. And the heating system doesn’t work any harder to warm your house back up after you lower the heat for a set time, contrary to popular belief.
The Federal Trade Commission also offered advice on saving money through energy efficiency. Some of the tips:
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Invest in weather stripping and caulk to seal air leaks around doors and windows and in areas where pipes or wires come through cracks or gaps in walls.
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Check whether filters for heating or air conditioning need to be cleaned or replaced.
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Look for a product’s EnergyGuide label to learn how much energy it uses, and make comparisons with other options.
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Use the energy assessment on smart meters or hire a professional for an energy assessment. The FTC said it is important to check online to make sure the company is reliable or visit energysavers.gov for other resources.
This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Best temperature to set thermostat for winter in New Jersey