The week of December 13th Madison is experiencing its’ first frigid weather of the 2010 winter season. Temperatures during the day don’t exceed 25 degrees F and at night can dip down to -5 degrees F and if there is any wind at all the effective temperature drops further.
What temperature should you set your home thermostat? There are many variables such as age of the home, structure of the home, and the age of residents. Everyone must determine a comfort zone for themselves. However, most circumstances a range from 68-72 degrees F is comfortable. The amount of moisture in a house makes a difference. Using a humidifier helps and the moist air holds heat better than dry air.
You should consider lowering the temp.comerature of your house from 1- 5 degrees while sleeping or when you will be away from the home for 8 or more hours. You will save money on your energy bill and reduce energy consumed. You can adjust your thermostat manually or purchase a programmable thermostat.
Remember to use your ceiling fans in the winter too. During the winter set the ceiling fan to rotate so that it draws air up to the ceiling. This will help to draw warm air up into the room and distribute the warm air more evenly.
“Auto” is the best setting for the furnace fan. This way when the furnace is on warm air is automatically circulated throughout the house. If the fan is set to on it will circulate air throughout the house at all times. In special cases, such as those suffering from allergies, this setting is useful.
For more information visit: alliantenergy .com/energyefficiency.
