February 11, 2025

Optimizing Your Thermostat Settings for Late Winter Energy Savings

As winter nears its end, temperatures can fluctuate between chilly mornings and milder afternoons. Many homeowners leave their thermostats at the same setting all season, but making small adjustments can help lower energy costs without sacrificing comfort. Fine-tuning your thermostat for late winter allows you to stay warm while reducing unnecessary heating expenses. Ideal Thermostat Settings for Late Winter The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 68°F while you’re home and awake. As outdoor temperatures rise toward spring, you might not need as much heat as earlier in the season. Lowering the thermostat a few degrees when you’re asleep or away from home can lead to significant savings on your energy bill. If you have a programmable thermostat, setting it to automatically lower the temperature at night and while you’re at work makes it easier to save energy without constantly adjusting it manually. Smart thermostats take this a step further by learning your schedule and adjusting accordingly. Balancing Comfort and Efficiency Late winter can bring unexpected cold snaps, so it’s important to find a balance between comfort and energy efficiency. Here are a few ways to optimize your thermostat use: Use layered clothing and blankets instead of...

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January 14, 2025

Understanding the Impact of Humidity on Heating Efficiency in Illinois Winters

During the chilly Illinois winters, maintaining a warm and comfortable home is a top priority. However, many homeowners may not realize that humidity levels play a significant role in heating efficiency. Understanding this relationship can help you create a cozier indoor environment while optimizing energy use. How Humidity Affects Perceived Warmth Humidity refers to the amount of moisture in the air, and it directly influences how warm or cold a space feels. During winter, air tends to be drier. Indoor air loses even more moisture due to the use of heating systems. This dryness can make your home feel cooler than it actually is, prompting you to increase the thermostat setting. Higher humidity levels, on the other hand, help retain warmth by making the air feel more comfortable. When humidity is balanced, you may find that you don’t need to crank up the heat as much, which can save on energy costs. The Role of Your HVAC System Your HVAC system works hard to keep your home warm, but it can also inadvertently strip moisture from the air. A lack of humidity can lead to dry skin, irritated sinuses, and static electricity. More importantly, it may reduce the heating system’s...

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