As the weather turns cooler and the days get shorter, many homeowners in Austin start to wonder: When should I turn my heat on? It’s a question that balances comfort with energy efficiency. No one wants to shiver in their own home, but they also don’t want to waste money on unnecessary heating costs.

This guide will help you determine the optimal time to turn on your heat, considering factors like personal preference, energy savings, and the unique Austin climate. 

Time of Year: Austin’s Unique Climate

Austin experiences mild winters compared to other parts of the country. We have the occasional cold snaps, but our winters don’t typically have prolonged periods of freezing temperatures. This means you might not need to turn on your heat until later in the year. Typically, most Texas homeowners decide to turn their heat on in October. 

In the end, it’s all subjective. The best option for staying comfortable is to turn your heat on during the colder months. For Texas, heatable months range from October through March. 

Signs It’s Time to Turn on the Heat

Besides watching the calendar, if you’re wondering, “when should I turn my heat on?” here are some telltale signs: 

• The Weather Forecast: Paying attention to the weather forecast can allow you to adjust your thermostat accordingly to a level perfect for your comfort. If a cold front is coming through, you’ll want to make sure your heating system is ready to go. It’s become more common in Texas for cold fronts to occur between January to February.
• You’re Constantly Wearing Layers Indoors: If you find yourself bundled up in sweaters and blankets even inside your home, it’s definitely time to turn on the heat. There’s no need for you to suffer in the chilly indoors when you have the freedom to turn the heat on. 
• Your Home Feels Damp and Chilly: A cold home can start to feel damp, especially in Austin due to the humidity. This can make your home feel even colder and can contribute to mold growth. You can prevent the dampness and mold by turning on the heat to a practical temperature. 
• You’re Experiencing Drafts: Check your windows and doors for drafts. Sealing any air leaks can help improve your home’s insulation and reduce the need for heating.

The “Ideal” Temperature: Finding Your Comfort Zone

There’s no single “right” answer to when you should turn on your heat. It largely depends on the personal comfort level of you and your family. Some people are perfectly fine wearing sweaters indoors and keeping the thermostat lower, while others prefer a warmer environment.

The U.S. The Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 68°F when you’re home and awake during the winter months.

The Pros and Cons of Turning Heat On 

Deciding when to turn on your heat often comes down to balancing comfort with energy conservation. While running your heating system keeps your home warm and cozy, it can also lead to higher energy bills. However, when you don’t turn on your heating you’re able to conserve energy and expenses, but your days might feel a bit more chilly.

When Should I Turn My Heat On During the Day: Consider a Programmable Thermostats

Modern programmable thermostats offer a fantastic way to optimize your heating schedule and save energy. You can program your thermostat to automatically lower the temperature when you’re asleep or away from home, and then raise the temperature before you wake up or return.

A possible schedule for your thermostat could consist of setting temperatures to: 

• Daytime (6:00 AM – 8:00 AM): 68°F – 70°F
• Work/School Hours (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM): 62°F – 65°F
• Evenings (5:00 PM – 10:00 PM): 68°F – 70°F
• Nighttime (10:00 PM – 6:00 AM): 60°F – 65°F

Remember, these are just suggestions. Adjust the temperatures at times that fit your lifestyle and preferences.

Time of Week: Weekday vs. Weekend Heating

If you work from home or have a flexible schedule, you might not need to heat your home as much during the weekdays. Consider setting your thermostat a few degrees lower on weekdays when you’re less active around the house.

Don’t Forget Regular Maintenance!

Before you turn on your heat for the first time this season, you might want to consider scheduling a professional maintenance check-up. TemperaturePro Austin offers comprehensive heating system tune-ups to ensure your system is running efficiently and safely.

During a maintenance visit, a technician will:

• Inspect your furnace or heat pump for any issues.
• Clean and replace air filters.
• Check the thermostat calibration.
• Test safety controls.

Regular maintenance can help prevent costly breakdowns, improve energy efficiency, and extend the lifespan of your heating system. 

TemperaturePro Austin: Your Partner in Home Comfort

If you’re in doubt, TemperaturePro Austin has got you covered. At TemperaturePro Austin, we understand the importance of a comfortable and energy-efficient home. We recommend turning the heat on from October to March, along with checking that your heating system is ready for the winter. Our team of experienced HVAC technicians can help you with all your heating needs, from routine maintenance to emergency repairs.

When should I turn my heat on? Well, don’t wait until you’re shivering! Schedule your heating system tune-up with TemperaturePro Austin today.

Winter in Austin can be unpredictable. One day you’re basking in the sun, the next you’re reaching for an extra layer. But no matter what the weather throws at us, we want our fellow Austinites to be comfortable in their homes. A large piece of that comfort comes down to having the right average house temperature in the winter.

So, What Is The Magic Number? 

While personal preferences vary, most experts recommend setting the average house temperature in winter to a range between 68-72°F, when you’re home and awake. 

When you are away, energy companies and other experts recommend setting your thermostat lower to at least 58°F. While this can seem intense, it will prevent pipes from freezing, and can minimize energy consumption.

Why Is This Range Ideal?

Experts recommend setting your thermostat between 68-72°F when you’re home and awake for a few key reasons:

• Maintains Comfort: This temperature range is generally considered comfortable for most people, preventing you from feeling too cold or too hot. This helps create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your home.

• Improves Indoor Air Quality: Maintaining a consistent temperature helps prevent issues like excessive dryness, which can impact your respiratory health and comfort. Proper heating can also prevent mold growth by reducing moisture buildup.

• Protects Your Home: Consistent heating prevents your home from getting too cold, which can be beneficial for your plumbing. When temperatures drop significantly, pipes can freeze and burst, causing costly damage. 
• Health Considerations: Maintaining a consistent and comfortable temperature can help support your immune system. Large temperature swings can put stress on your body and make you more susceptible to illness. 

Specific Benefits in Texas: 

Texas winters are now associated with higher risks of safety issues. Setting your average house temperature in winter to 68-72°F is an important safety practice due to the intensity of the weather on Texas houses and residents. Along with the benefits listed above, there are some that specifically help Texas homeowners.

• Increases Energy Efficiency:  While it might seem counterintuitive, setting your thermostat to a reasonable temperature like 68-72°F can actually improve energy efficiency. This is because your heating system won’t have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature, leading to less energy consumption and lower heating bills. 
• Extends Lifespan of HVAC System: When your heating system doesn’t have to constantly cycle on and off to maintain extreme temperatures, it experiences less wear and tear. This can help prolong the life of your HVAC system and reduce the need for repairs.

Regardless of these reasons, it’s important to remember that this is just a guideline. The temperature you select can be made based on your personal preference and comfort.

Fine-Tuning Your Ideal Winter Temperature

Since these temperatures are “average”, you have the ability to make adjustments. The safest option is to set your temperature to be close to the recommended range to ensure your house is protected. However, other factors can influence your temperature selection, which include: 

• Personal Preference: Everyone has their own comfort level, whether it’s for a warmer or cooler environment. Adjusting the temperature by one or two degrees can create a more comfortable environment without creating an extreme temperature imbalance in your home. 
• Activity Level: If you’re more active indoors, you might prefer a slightly cooler temperature. The reverse is also true for setting a slightly warmer temperature if you prefer more sedentary activities.
• Age and Health: Older adults and young children often feel colder and may benefit from a warmer setting.
• Time of Day: As described earlier, when you are away from your home it’s recommended that you lower the temperature of your house to around 58°F. You might also prefer to lower the temperature at night too.

Tips for Maintaining the Perfect Temperature

Here are a few tips to help you maintain the perfect average house temperature in winter and maximize your comfort:

• Invest in a Programmable Thermostat: Using a programmable thermostat allows you to adjust the temperature throughout the day based on your schedule, further optimizing comfort and energy savings.
• Utilize Natural Sunlight: If you open your curtains during the day to let the sun in, you can warm your home naturally.
• Seal Air Leaks: Drafty windows and doors can significantly impact your home’s temperature. Before the winter starts it would be smart to ensure any air leaks are sealed with weatherstripping or caulk.
• Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance: Ensure your heating system is running efficiently by scheduling regular maintenance with a qualified technician.

TemperaturePro Can Help!

Finding the perfect average house temperature in winter is a balancing act. At TemperaturePro Austin, we can help you optimize your home’s heating system for maximum comfort and energy efficiency. Our experienced technicians can provide expert advice, perform necessary maintenance or replacements, and ensure your system is running smoothly all winter long. 

Contact TemperaturePro Austin today for a free consultation!