Here’s where to set your thermostat in Georgia to save money during freezing weather. Eric Risberg/AP

Here’s where to set your thermostat in Georgia to save money during freezing weather.

Credit: Eric Risberg/AP

Georgia’s first widespread freeze is expected soon and with temperatures dropping into the 20s and 30s across much of the state, heaters will be clicking on statewide. 

To stay comfortable and keep costs in check, you should set your thermostat at 68°F, say experts, for the most efficiency.

 

Why 68°F is best

Setting the thermostat at 68 °F will save money

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, setting your thermostat to 68°F cut down the work of the heating system and reduces heat loss through walls and windows. It also minimizes the difference between the indoor environment and the colder outdoor air, slowing down the rate of heat loss from your home.

Every degree above 68°F causes your heater to run longer and makes it more expensive to maintain because it allows warmer air to escape faster. In fact, you can save as much as 1% for each degree the thermostat is lowered for an eight-hour period.

 

Keeping the temperature at 65°F is good for you

Sleep specialists recommend keeping the temperature between 65° and 70°F because it is scientifically recognized as ideal for sleep. Your body temperature naturally falls in the evening, so cooler, ambient conditions align with the internal temperatures which promotes better sleep.

 

This is true for several reasons:

  • It promotes healthy sleep cycles by supporting the body’s natural cooling system
  • Hotter environments disrupt the body’s ability to maintain restful asleep
  • It helps with deeper and more restorative sleep
  • Temperatures between 60°F and 65°F make it easier to fall and stay asleep

 

Prepare your home for the coming cold weather

Georgia Power has a few recommendations for maximizing comfort while still keeping the house energy-efficient and cost-effective.

  • Open blinds to let in natural sunlight and close them at night to reduce heat loss.
  • Replacing cracked or peeling caulk or weatherstripping around doors and windows can cut energy use by up to 10%.
  • Ensure insulation is adequate to retain heat
  • Change HVAC filters every month (or every three months for pleated filters)
  • Keep heating vents clear of obstructions
  • Close fireplace flue dampers when not in use
  • Use surge protectors with internal circuit breakers
  • Keep space heaters separated from furniture, curtains, and water and never use them with extension cords, and turn them off before leaving the house or sleeping.

Also, don’t forget to safeguard outdoor plumbing, bring sensitive plants inside, and winterize irrigation systems before the freeze hits.

If you are experiencing financial hardship due to utility bills or are facing a disconnection of services, there are many agencies that can help, including Georgia Power.

If you need help connecting with resources, you can email me at srose@ledger-enquirer.com or find me on social media.

This story comes to GPB through a reporting partnership with Columbus Ledger-Enquirer.

Tags: Georgia  weather  cold weather  temperatures