Heating is often the biggest energy expense in a home during winter, so even small thermostat changes can make a difference over a season. Turning the temperature down a few degrees while you sleep or are away from home reduces how long your system runs. Most people adapt quickly, especially with an extra blanket or a warm sweater.

A programmable or smart thermostat makes this easier because you do not have to remember to adjust it. Set it to lower the temperature after bedtime and warm the house back up shortly before you wake. Do the same for hours when everyone is at work or school.

If you have a heat pump, check with the manufacturer or your installer before making large setbacks. Some systems may switch to less efficient backup heat when asked to warm a home quickly, which can work against you. A smaller, steady setback is often the better approach for those systems.