Does turning the heat on and off raise the bill
Does Turning the Heat On and Off Raise the Bill? It’s a question nearly every homeowner in Arvada asks when cold weather hits:
"Does turning the heat on and off actually save money, or does it raise your energy bill?"
The answer is: it depends. At HVAC Arvada Pros, we've helped hundreds of homeowners optimize their energy use and reduce heating bills with smart thermostat use and professional advice. Below, we’ll explain the science, the myths, and the best strategies to heat your home efficiently — without wasting money.
How Your Furnace Uses EnergyTo understand your heating bill, it helps to know how your furnace works. Whether you use a gas, electric, or heat pump system, your furnace consumes the most energy when it first kicks on — like revving your car engine.
However, once your home reaches the desired temperature, the system cycles on and off to maintain that level, using significantly less energy.
So, Does Turning the Heat On and Off Save Money?✅ Turning Heat Down (Not Off) Saves MoneyIf you lower your thermostat while you're at work, sleeping, or away for the weekend — yes, you’ll likely see energy savings.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save up to 10% per year on your heating bill by setting your thermostat 7°–10°F lower for 8 hours a day.
❌ Turning Heat Off Completely Can Cost MoreIf you turn your heat off entirely during the day and then crank it back up at night, your furnace has to work harder and longer to reheat your home. This can spike your energy use, especially if your home isn't well insulated.
The Smart Way to Lower Energy Bills in ColoradoHere’s what HVAC Arvada Pros recommends:
1. Use a Programmable or Smart ThermostatSet your heat lower when you're not home and have it warm up automatically before you return. Smart thermostats learn your habits and optimize energy use — saving you money without sacrificing comfort.
2. Lower Temps, Don’t Shut OffRather than turning your system off completely, lower it to 60–65°F while you're gone. This reduces energy use but prevents your furnace from overworking later.
3. Seal Drafts & InsulateIf your home is drafty, your furnace works harder no matter how smart your thermostat is. Sealing windows, doors, and ductwork can significantly improve efficiency.
4. Regular Maintenance = Lower BillsA well-maintained furnace runs more efficiently, costs less to operate, and lasts longer. Schedule your annual furnace tune-up with HVAC Arvada Pros to make sure you're not wasting energy or money.
When Turning the Heat On and Off Makes Sense
When It Might Hurt Your Energy Bill
Best Temperatures for Energy SavingsAccording to ENERGY STAR and HVAC Arvada Pros' local experience:
Time Ideal Temperature Daytime (home) 68°F
Daytime (away) 60–65°F
Night (sleeping) 60–66°F
Vacation (winter) 55°F (minimum)
Top FAQ:❓ Is it better to leave heat on low all day or turn it on as needed?Answer:
Leaving the heat on low (with a smart thermostat) is better than turning it off and on manually. It keeps the temperature steady and avoids overworking your system.
❓ Will turning my furnace on and off damage it?Answer:
Constant cycling can cause wear and tear. It's more efficient — and safer — to lower the thermostat rather than shut the system down completely.
Let HVAC Arvada Pros Help You Save MoreAs Arvada’s top-rated HVAC company, we’re here to help you heat your home smarter, not harder.
We offer:
Why Arvada Trusts HVAC Arvada Pros
Conclusion: The Bottom Line on Heat & Energy BillsTurning your furnace off and on frequently is not the most efficient way to save money. Instead, lower the thermostat when you’re away, use a programmable or smart thermostat, and maintain your system for optimal efficiency.
Need help upgrading your thermostat or optimizing your heating system?
Call HVAC Arvada Pros — your trusted local HVAC experts.
Schedule a Free Energy Savings Consultation📞 Call Us: (720) 807-5158
🌐 Website: www.hvacarvadapros.com
📍 Serving Arvada, Wheat Ridge, Westminster, and nearby communities.
"Does turning the heat on and off actually save money, or does it raise your energy bill?"
The answer is: it depends. At HVAC Arvada Pros, we've helped hundreds of homeowners optimize their energy use and reduce heating bills with smart thermostat use and professional advice. Below, we’ll explain the science, the myths, and the best strategies to heat your home efficiently — without wasting money.
How Your Furnace Uses EnergyTo understand your heating bill, it helps to know how your furnace works. Whether you use a gas, electric, or heat pump system, your furnace consumes the most energy when it first kicks on — like revving your car engine.
However, once your home reaches the desired temperature, the system cycles on and off to maintain that level, using significantly less energy.
So, Does Turning the Heat On and Off Save Money?✅ Turning Heat Down (Not Off) Saves MoneyIf you lower your thermostat while you're at work, sleeping, or away for the weekend — yes, you’ll likely see energy savings.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save up to 10% per year on your heating bill by setting your thermostat 7°–10°F lower for 8 hours a day.
❌ Turning Heat Off Completely Can Cost MoreIf you turn your heat off entirely during the day and then crank it back up at night, your furnace has to work harder and longer to reheat your home. This can spike your energy use, especially if your home isn't well insulated.
The Smart Way to Lower Energy Bills in ColoradoHere’s what HVAC Arvada Pros recommends:
1. Use a Programmable or Smart ThermostatSet your heat lower when you're not home and have it warm up automatically before you return. Smart thermostats learn your habits and optimize energy use — saving you money without sacrificing comfort.
2. Lower Temps, Don’t Shut OffRather than turning your system off completely, lower it to 60–65°F while you're gone. This reduces energy use but prevents your furnace from overworking later.
3. Seal Drafts & InsulateIf your home is drafty, your furnace works harder no matter how smart your thermostat is. Sealing windows, doors, and ductwork can significantly improve efficiency.
4. Regular Maintenance = Lower BillsA well-maintained furnace runs more efficiently, costs less to operate, and lasts longer. Schedule your annual furnace tune-up with HVAC Arvada Pros to make sure you're not wasting energy or money.
When Turning the Heat On and Off Makes Sense
- Vacations or extended time away: If you’re leaving for more than 2–3 days, turning your heat down to 55°F (not off!) keeps pipes from freezing while saving energy.
- Rooms you don’t use: Consider zone heating or closing vents in unused rooms (with caution — too many closed vents can stress your system).
When It Might Hurt Your Energy Bill
- Turning it off during the day and blasting it at night
- Old thermostats or lack of scheduling
- Poor insulation or air leaks
- Inconsistent temperature swings causing the furnace to run too frequently
Best Temperatures for Energy SavingsAccording to ENERGY STAR and HVAC Arvada Pros' local experience:
Time Ideal Temperature Daytime (home) 68°F
Daytime (away) 60–65°F
Night (sleeping) 60–66°F
Vacation (winter) 55°F (minimum)
Top FAQ:❓ Is it better to leave heat on low all day or turn it on as needed?Answer:
Leaving the heat on low (with a smart thermostat) is better than turning it off and on manually. It keeps the temperature steady and avoids overworking your system.
❓ Will turning my furnace on and off damage it?Answer:
Constant cycling can cause wear and tear. It's more efficient — and safer — to lower the thermostat rather than shut the system down completely.
Let HVAC Arvada Pros Help You Save MoreAs Arvada’s top-rated HVAC company, we’re here to help you heat your home smarter, not harder.
We offer:
- ✅ Smart thermostat installation & programming
- ✅ Energy efficiency audits
- ✅ Furnace repair, tune-ups & replacement
- ✅ Sealing and insulation upgrades
- ✅ 24/7 emergency heating service
Why Arvada Trusts HVAC Arvada Pros
- 🌟 5-star rated by local homeowners
- 💼 Licensed & insured technicians
- 🔧 Same-day service available
- 🧰 Free estimates & transparent pricing
- 🏠 Locally owned — we know Colorado weather
Conclusion: The Bottom Line on Heat & Energy BillsTurning your furnace off and on frequently is not the most efficient way to save money. Instead, lower the thermostat when you’re away, use a programmable or smart thermostat, and maintain your system for optimal efficiency.
Need help upgrading your thermostat or optimizing your heating system?
Call HVAC Arvada Pros — your trusted local HVAC experts.
Schedule a Free Energy Savings Consultation📞 Call Us: (720) 807-5158
🌐 Website: www.hvacarvadapros.com
📍 Serving Arvada, Wheat Ridge, Westminster, and nearby communities.