The Optimum Temperature to Set a Furnace

Identification

• A furnace is controlled by a thermostat, which turns on or off when the temperature is above or below a level that you determine. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that the optimum temperature to set your furnace is 68 to 72 F while you are awake or at home. When you are away from home or asleep, a furnace can be set at 55 to 58 F.

Significance

• The U.S. Department of Energy notes that contrary to popular belief, a furnace does not work harder to warm up a room after the temperature has been set back. When the temperature in your house drops below normal, it loses heat more slowly. By keeping your furnace set to a lower temperature for eight hours per day, you reduce your energy costs.

Specifications

• The U.S. Department of Energy recommends using a programmable thermostat to set your furnace to its optimum temperature. A programmable thermostat can store several daily settings that you can override manually when needed. Digital programmable thermostats will offer you more features, but some people find them difficult to program. Electromechanic models have sliding bars that you adjust to the desired temperature and are easier to program.

Considerations

• The location of a thermostat can impact its performance. To optimize efficiency, a thermostat should not be installed near doors, windows, skylights or in drafty areas. It should also be kept out of direct sunlight. It is also ideal to program your thermostat so that it begins its temperature setback a couple of hours before your bedtime.