Finding the right temperature for winter comfort in Connecticut can feel like a balancing act—warm enough to stay cozy through long cold spells, but not so warm that your heating bills spike. Many homeowners ask us about the ideal setting for a thermostat in Simsbury, CT. The good news is that with a few smart strategies, you can stay comfortable without overworking your heating system or overspending.
Aim for a Comfortable, Efficient Base Temperature
Most homes feel comfortable with the thermostat set between 68°F and 70°F during the day when people are home and awake. In well-sealed and well-insulated houses, you may be able to maintain comfort even a few degrees lower. The key is to support your heating system with smart habits that keep warmth where you want it—inside.
Use Ceiling Fans to Your Advantage
It might sound counterintuitive to use fans in the winter, but properly set ceiling fans can significantly boost comfort. Switch your fan to its reverse (clockwise) setting on low speed. This pulls cool air up and pushes warm, naturally rising air back down to the living space. You’ll feel warmer without raising the thermostat, and your system won’t have to cycle as often.
Maintain Ideal Indoor Humidity
Dry winter air makes your home feel colder than it actually is. Keeping indoor humidity in the ideal range of 30–50% helps your body retain warmth more effectively. A whole-house humidifier or even portable units in key rooms can make a noticeable difference, allowing you to stay comfortable at lower thermostat settings.
Seal Drafts and Keep Heat Inside
Even small air leaks can undermine your home’s comfort. Check around windows, exterior doors, attic hatches, and gaps around plumbing penetrations. Weatherstripping, caulking, and foam sealant are inexpensive ways to stop cold air infiltration. When your home holds on to heat better, your furnace works less and your comfort improves dramatically.
Let the Sun Work for You
Passive solar gain is one of winter’s best natural heating tools. Open south-facing blinds and curtains during sunny daytime hours to let in radiant warmth. Close them once the sun goes down to trap heat indoors. This simple habit can add several degrees of warmth to living spaces at no cost.
Program Your Thermostat Wisely
Energy savings often come down to strategic setbacks—lowering the temperature during times when you don’t need the house as warm. Program your thermostat to drop a few degrees at night while you’re asleep and during hours when the house is empty. However, never allow indoor temperatures to fall below 55°F.
Consider Upgrading to a Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat can fine-tune your comfort while helping you save energy. These devices learn your routines, automatically adjust temperatures, and even offer freeze-protection alerts. If you’re interested in more convenience, comfort, and efficiency this winter, reach out to our team—we’re happy to help you choose and install the ideal thermostat for your home.
With the right combination of settings, habits, and equipment, you can enjoy a warm, cozy Connecticut winter without the worry of high heating bills.
Contact us today for heating repair in Simsbury, CT. Valley Air Conditioning & Heating has been serving Hartford and Litchfield Counties for over 35 years!
