How Low Can You Go With Your Thermostat Settings?

Turning down the temperature in your Stafford, Virginia, home is an effective way to lower wintertime utility bills. But if you’re making extreme adjustments to your thermostat settings for periods when you’re out of the house or away on vacation, you need to consider some important safety elements.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

When you’re turning the temperature down, one of the most important considerations is your pipes. Frozen pipes can burst, creating a problem that’s more hazardous than a high energy bill.

Pipes can freeze in temperatures around 20 degrees. In our part of Northern Virginia, the dangers of frozen pipes are well known, and homes are usually constructed with this in mind.

Your pipes are most likely in an insulated part of the home and not an exposed outdoor air. To prevent frozen pipes, keep your home’s temperature no lower than 55 degrees.

Keeping Pets Comfortable

Cold tolerance varies by animal. Pets with a thick coat and insulating layer of fat will tolerate cold weather better than those with thin fur and minimal body fat.

Age and health are important considerations, as well. If you want a hard and fast number for pet safety, ask your veterinarian what’s best for your animal.

As a general guideline, you should assume your home’s temperatures are too low if your pets are shivering, whining, or showing other signs of discomfort and anxiety. If you’re comfortable, your pets probably are, too. Just keep them in mind if you’re adjusting your thermostat settings for times when you’re out.

A programmable thermostat will allow you to adjust your home’s thermostat settings for optimum efficiency and safety in any conditions. Add Wi-Fi capabilities, and you’re even in control on the go. If you’re looking for a smart upgrade for more control over your heating system, contact Brennan’s Heating & Air Conditioning at 703-783-0145 for a smart solution today.

Image provided by Shutterstock