Don’t Turn Your Thermostat TOO Low!

When money is tight, it could be tempting to turn your thermostat way down during the long winter months to save a few bucks, especially if you plan to leave your Massachusetts home for a winter getaway.

Don’t do it!

The truth is that setting your thermostat below 55°F could result in costly problems for your home, including two you definitely want to avoid: frozen pipes and condensation build-up. Let’s take a look at both problems, and how to avoid them.

Frozen Pipes

When temperatures inside your house drop too low, the risk for frozen pipes increases dramatically. That’s because most bathroom and kitchen pipes are not insulated – which means they rely on your home heating system to keep them warm. Inadequate heat in your living space can cause these pipes to freeze and eventually burst, leading to potentially severe water and structural damage that could cost thousands of dollars to repair.

Condensation And Mold Problems

A second problem that setting the temperature too low in your home can cause is a buildup of condensation (water droplets) inside your home. Condensation occurs when moist air comes into contact with a cold surface; the cooler the air in your home is, the less moisture it can hold.
A buildup of condensation can damage your wood floors, furniture, and electronic equipment, and could even lead to a mold problem.

Manage Home Temperatures With A Smart Thermostat

An easy way to avoid these problems while still saving money on your home heating bill is to install a programmable or smart thermostat. These easy-to-use devices will help you keep temperatures low while you’re a way and higher while you’re home. Contact us today to learn more about thermostat installations in Greater Springfield, MA!

Keep steady heat coming all winter long with reliable propane and heating oil deliveries and expert heating service in Western Massachusetts from the pros at FSi. Contact us today to learn more, or to become an FSi customer!