As the summer heat begins to wane and the days get shorter, the transition from the warmth of summer to the coolness of fall is a great time to prepare your home for the changing seasons. A key part of this preparation is making sure your thermostat is set correctly to maintain comfort while optimizing energy efficiency.
This article will guide you through the process of using the comfort setting on your thermostat to ensure a cozy and cost-effective indoor environment in the fall season.
Change Your Thermostat Mode
During the summer months, you likely had your thermostat set to “cool” to combat the heat. Now that fall is approaching, it’s time to switch to the “heat” mode. This simple change will ensure that your heating system is ready to keep you warm when the temperature drops.
Adjust the Temperature Settings
Fall weather can be unpredictable, with chilly mornings and evenings but warmer afternoons.
To balance comfort and energy savings, set your thermostat to a lower temperature during times when you’re asleep or away from home and raise it when you’re awake and present. This practice is known as a setback or programmable thermostat, and it can help reduce your energy bills.
For example, you might set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature while you’re at home during the day, say 68-72°F (20-22°C). Then, when you’re sleeping or at work, you can program it to drop by a few degrees.
Consider Smart Thermostats
These devices allow you to control your home’s temperature remotely via a smartphone app or voice commands.
They can also learn your preferences over time and adjust the temperature accordingly, which can lead to significant energy savings. Some smart thermostats can even provide you with insights and suggestions on how to further optimize your heating and cooling system.
Make Use of Zoning Systems
If your home has a zoning system, take advantage of it to heat specific areas when needed. Zoning systems allow you to control the temperature in different parts of your home independently.
This is particularly useful if you have rooms that are less frequently used or if you prefer different temperatures in various parts of your house.
Regular Maintenance
Fall is a good time to have your heating system serviced. A professional technician can inspect and clean your furnace or heat pump, ensuring that it operates efficiently and safely. Regular maintenance can also extend the life of your heating system and prevent unexpected breakdowns.
Replace Your Air Filters
Clogged air filters can reduce the efficiency of your heating system and worsen indoor air quality. Be sure to replace or clean your air filters regularly. During the fall, when your heating system is in use, it’s important to maintain a clean filter to ensure proper airflow and heating efficiency.
Check for Drafts
Check around windows and doors for any gaps or leaks and seal them as needed. This will help maintain a consistent indoor temperature and reduce the workload on your heating system.
A Comfort Setting for Your Home in the Fall
Your home is your haven and that’s why learning how to use the comfort setting no matter what the season is crucial.
Need heating or cooling services? Contact One Choice Mechanical to learn more about how we can help.