As the cold settles over Chicagoland, homeowners are bracing for a more expensive heating season. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), natural gas costs in the Midwest are expected to rise by around 11% this winter compared to last year. Following the record-warm winter of 2024, forecasters anticipate a return to colder temperatures, which could lead to higher demand and potential price spikes for Illinois gas utilities.
With that in mind, now is the time to make sure your home’s heating system is running efficiently. Whether you have a smart thermostat or a programmable model, a few smart settings can help you stay comfortable while keeping your gas bills under control.
Know Your Comfort Range
Every home and family is different, but most people feel comfortable when indoor temperatures stay between 68 and 72°F during the day. However, lowering your thermostat by 5 to 7 degrees overnight or while you’re away can make a noticeable difference in costs. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, this simple adjustment can save up to 10% per year on heating costs. (Source: Energy.gov – Thermostat Settings for Energy Savings)
If you’re using a programmable thermostat, you can manually schedule these temperature changes. With a smart thermostat, these adjustments can happen automatically based on your daily routine, occupancy sensors, or when everyone in the household leaves and returns.
Set Schedules or Automations
Smart thermostats can learn your household patterns and adjust temperatures throughout the day. Basic programmable thermostats can do something similar once you enter a daily schedule.
Try this as a starting point:
- Morning (wake-up): 70 to 72°F
- Daytime (away): 64 to 66°F
- Evening (home): around 70°F
- Night (sleep): 65 to 68°F
Small, steady temperature changes save more energy than large swings. If your schedule changes frequently, look for a “hold” or “temporary override” feature to prevent accidentally clearing your main settings.
If you’re thinking about upgrading your thermostat, NextGen Heating and Cooling can help ensure it connects correctly to your heating system.
Pro Tip: Try lowering your thermostat one degree each week until you find the lowest temperature that still feels comfortable. You might be surprised how quickly your body adjusts.
Use Eco or Away Modes if Available
Many smart thermostats include Eco, Adaptive, or Smart Away modes that help reduce heating when no one is home and restore warmth before you return. The exact features vary by brand, but the goal is the same: cut back on unnecessary heating without sacrificing comfort.
If certain rooms still feel colder than others, the issue might not be your thermostat. Uneven airflow can cause temperature differences throughout your home. NextGen’s duct and ventilation services can help balance those hot and cold spots.
Don’t Forget the Basics
Even the most advanced thermostat can’t fix an inefficient heating system. To help your equipment perform its best:
- Replace your furnace filter every 1 to 3 months
- Keep vents and registers clear
- Seal any drafts around windows and doors
These small steps help your thermostat maintain consistent temperatures and reduce strain on your furnace.
If you haven’t already prepped your home for winter, take a look at our October HVAC Checklist for easy seasonal maintenance tips.
Keep Your System Tuned and Protected
Routine maintenance helps ensure your furnace and thermostat work efficiently together. NextGen Heating and Cooling’s Ultimate Protection Plan includes two tune-ups per year, 25% off all repairs, and priority service for just $19.95 per month. It’s an affordable way to prevent mid-winter breakdowns and maintain peace of mind. Learn more about the plan.
Whether you rely on smart automation or basic programming, consistent thermostat management can help lower your heating bills and keep your home comfortable all winter long.
If you’d like help setting up your thermostat, upgrading to a smart model, or scheduling a tune-up, contact NextGen Heating and Cooling today.
Call (224) 539-6895 or reach out online. Your comfort and savings start with smarter control.
