When freezing temperatures settle in, your thermostat becomes one of the most important tools in your home. If you live in a frigid climate, it’s natural to wonder whether you should change how you use your thermostat during extreme cold. Should you keep the temperature the same all day? Turn it down at night? Crank it up when it feels chilly? The right approach can help you stay comfortable, protect your system, and avoid unnecessarily high energy bills.
Here’s what homeowners in cold-weather regions like ours should know about thermostat settings when winter is at its worst—and when it’s time to call a professional.
Keep Your Home Consistently Warm (Don’t “Panic Turn” the Heat)
In freezing weather, consistency matters. Many homeowners make the mistake of lowering the thermostat too far and then raising it dramatically to “catch up.” This doesn’t heat your home faster—it simply keeps your furnace running longer and can create extra strain on the system. Your heater works best when it maintains a steady temperature.
A good rule of thumb is to choose a comfortable baseline temperature and stick close to it during extreme cold. Most homes do well around the high 60s to low 70s, but comfort varies. The most important thing is avoiding wide temperature swings that can make your home uncomfortable and cause your system to work overtime.
Don’t Crank the Thermostat to Warm Up Faster
If your house feels cold, raising the thermostat from 68° to 75° won’t heat the home faster. HVAC systems typically warm the air at a consistent rate, and setting it higher just means the system stays on longer. If you’re frequently tempted to “over-adjust” your thermostat, it could be a sign your system isn’t heating properly—or your home has insulation or airflow issues that need attention.
Consider a Smart Thermostat for Better Control
Smart thermostats can be helpful during freezing weather because they can learn your preferences, reduce unnecessary heating, and keep temperatures more stable. They also allow remote adjustments, so you can keep your home warm without wasting energy when you’re away.
When to Call for Professional HVAC Repairs
If your home is too cold, uncomfortable, or struggling to maintain temperature, don’t assume it’s normal. Your system should be able to keep up, even during a cold snap. If your heater runs nonstop, blows lukewarm air, makes unusual noises, or your home won’t reach the set temperature, it’s time to call a professional HVAC technician.
Extreme cold can expose problems like failing components, dirty burners, clogged filters, or airflow restrictions—and the sooner you address them, the safer and more comfortable your home will be. Our team is on standby and ready to help when you call!
Our team of Home Performance Experts has served the I-5 corridor from Blaine to Marysville, Oak Harbor to Concrete, and the San Juan Islands since 1972 with a mission of Improving Lives™. We look forward to serving you too! Contact Barron Heating today for prompt repairs or assistance with your thermostat.