Does lowering the thermostat at night save money?

Yes, lowering your thermostat at night can save money on heating bills. For every degree you lower the temperature for 8 hours, you can save about 1% on your heating costs. Setting your thermostat back 7-10 degrees overnight typically saves 6-10% annually on heating bills.

How much you save depends on several factors. Your home's insulation quality, the outdoor temperature, and how much you lower the thermostat all affect savings. In Ottawa's cold winters, a well-insulated home might save $150-300 per year with consistent nighttime setbacks, while older homes with poor insulation will see smaller savings since they lose heat faster.

The key is consistency and duration. Your heating system works most efficiently when the temperature difference isn't extreme. A setback of 7-8 degrees for 8+ hours works well for most Ottawa homes. Avoid dropping the temperature more than 10 degrees, as your furnace will work harder to bring the temperature back up, potentially negating some savings.

Programmable or smart thermostats make this automatic and more effective. They can gradually lower the temperature after you go to bed and start warming the house before you wake up. This prevents the uncomfortable morning chill while maximizing savings. Many Ottawa homeowners find their thermostat pays for itself within the first heating season.

One important safety note: Never lower your thermostat below 16°C (60°F) in winter, as this can lead to frozen pipes in Ottawa's harsh climate. If you're going away for extended periods, maintain at least 13°C (55°F) to prevent pipe damage.

For optimal comfort and efficiency with your heating system, consider having your furnace serviced annually to ensure it's running at peak performance while you're implementing these energy-saving strategies.