Thermostats: 7 Tested for Best Thermostat Settings for Winter Efficiency

When winter rolls around, I used to dread opening my heating bill. It felt like I was constantly battling between staying warm and saving money, always fiddling with the thermostat, never quite getting it right. But over the years, I’ve learned that optimizing your Best Thermostat Settings for Winter Efficiency isn’t just about picking a number; it’s about leveraging the right technology and understanding how different devices can work together to keep your home cozy without breaking the bank. I’ve personally tested a range of solutions, from sophisticated smart thermostats that learn your habits to efficient space heaters that target specific zones, and even handy accessories for niche needs. In this guide, I’ll walk you through seven reliable options, sharing my hands-on insights to help you make informed decisions and transform your winter comfort and savings.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Emerson Sensi Touch Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat with Touchscreen…	View on Amazon
	PELONIS Champagne Oil Filled Radiator Heater with Remote…	View on Amazon
	Honeywell HHF370B 360 Degree Surround Fan Forced Heater…	View on Amazon
	PELONIS Oil Filled Radiator, Electric Space Heater for…	View on Amazon
	Caslant Smart WiFi Thermostat,Energy-Efficient Programmable…	View on Amazon
	Feekoon 1 Piece Thermostatically Controlled Outlet, On at…	View on Amazon
	Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat for Smart Home, Pro…	View on Amazon

Emerson Sensi Touch Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat with Touchscreen

This thermostat quickly became a staple in my home, offering a blend of modern design and serious energy-saving features. I love that it’s ENERGY STAR certified, which already puts my mind at ease about its efficiency. The large color touchscreen is intuitive and easy to navigate, even for guests. What truly stands out is the ability to control it from anywhere via the Sensi app – whether I’m headed home and want to warm things up, or I’ve left for the day and forgotten to adjust the temperature. Plus, their commitment to privacy protection means I don’t have to worry about my personal data being sold, which is a big win for me. It also provides helpful usage reports and maintenance reminders, making it simple to keep an eye on my HVAC system’s health.

Key features that stand out:
– Privacy Protection: Sensi won’t sell your personal information to third parties.
– Easy DIY Installation: Built-in level and step-by-step app instructions for a quick setup.
– Save About 23% on HVAC Energy: ENERGY STAR-certified with flexible scheduling and remote access.
– Sleek, Modern Design: Large color display with easy-to-read temperatures and intuitive menus.
– Control from Anywhere: Remotely manage home comfort via the Sensi mobile app.
– Smart Maintenance: Delivers usage reports, alerts, and maintenance reminders like filter replacement.

Pros:
– Excellent energy-saving potential with ENERGY STAR certification.
– User-friendly touchscreen interface and mobile app.
– Strong privacy policy.
– Provides valuable insights into HVAC performance.
– Available in multiple colors to match decor.

Cons:
– Requires a common wire (c-wire) for installation, which some older homes might lack.

Best for: Homeowners looking for a comprehensive smart thermostat with a touchscreen interface, strong privacy, and robust energy-saving features for whole-home climate control.

Expert Opinion: This is a top-tier smart thermostat, combining intuitive controls with powerful energy management and data privacy. Its ability to generate usage reports is particularly valuable for truly understanding and optimizing your Best Thermostat Settings for Winter Efficiency.

PELONIS Champagne Oil Filled Radiator Heater with Remote

When I needed to heat a specific room without cranking up the whole house, this PELONIS oil-filled radiator became my go-to. It truly offers whole-room rapid heating, creating a comforting warmth that doesn’t dry out the air like some fan heaters can. The personalized temperature settings with various heating modes and an adjustable thermostat mean I can dial in the exact comfort level. The ECO mode is a game-changer for saving on bills, intelligently adjusting to maintain warmth without wasting energy. I particularly appreciate the whisper-quiet operation, making it perfect for my bedroom or office where noise is a no-go. The remote control is a small but mighty convenience, allowing me to adjust settings from my couch.

Key features that stand out:
– Whole-Room Rapid Heating: 1500W high power and special fins for 360° hot air circulation.
– Personalized Temperature: 3 heating modes (1500w/900w/600w), 5 temperature settings (65°F-85°F), and adjustable thermostat.
– Save More on Winter Bills: ECO mode adjusts heating based on real-time temperature for energy savings.
– Easy to Use: Remote control and LED screen with 10H timer.
– Whisper-Quiet: Lacks fan construction, making it ideal for quiet spaces.
– Enhanced Safety: V0 flame retardant materials, over-heat protection, and tip-over safety switch.

Pros:
– Heats rooms quickly and efficiently without drying the air.
– Offers precise temperature control and energy-saving ECO mode.
– Extremely quiet operation.
– Convenient remote control and portability with caster wheels.
– Robust safety features.

Cons:
– Oil-filled heaters can take a bit longer to initially heat up compared to fan-forced heaters.

Best for: Anyone needing quiet, efficient, and sustained warmth for specific rooms, reducing reliance on central heating and helping achieve the Best Thermostat Settings for Winter Efficiency for zone heating.

Expert Opinion: This unit excels at providing consistent, gentle warmth, making it a stellar choice for supplementing your main heating system and targeting heat where you need it most. Its ECO mode is genuinely effective for bill savings.

Honeywell HHF370B 360 Degree Surround Fan Forced Heater

For quick, targeted heat, the Honeywell HHF370B is an excellent choice. I often use this in my small home office or a chilly mudroom where I need warmth fast. Its 360-degree all-around warmth is impressive for its compact size, quickly taking the chill out of the air. The adjustable thermostat and two heat settings provide flexibility, and I often opt for the Low setting, knowing it’s more energy-efficient. Honeywell emphasizes how using portable heaters can supplement home heating needs, and I’ve certainly seen the savings on my central heating bill by keeping the main thermostat lower and using this heater for personal comfort. The easy-grab, cool touch carry handle makes it simple to move from room to room, and the safety features like tip-over switch and overheat protection are reassuring.

Key features that stand out:
– Energy Efficient Heat: Provides 360° all-around warmth, ideal for small to mid-sized rooms, with an energy-saving Low setting.
– Easy to Use: Adjustable thermostat, 2 heat settings, 360-degree tip-over switch, overheat protection, and cool touch carry handle.
– Increase Your Comfort: Supplements home heating needs, helping save on heating costs.
– Smart Savings: Can help save significantly on heating bills by using it for targeted warmth.

Pros:
– Delivers rapid, all-around heat.
– Energy-efficient Low setting helps save money.
– Portable with a cool-touch handle.
– Robust safety features for peace of mind.
– Simple and intuitive controls.

Cons:
– Fan-forced operation is not as quiet as an oil-filled radiator.

Best for: Individuals seeking fast, supplemental heat for small to mid-sized rooms, enhancing comfort and contributing to the Best Thermostat Settings for Winter Efficiency by enabling lower main thermostat settings.

Expert Opinion: This Honeywell model is a reliable workhorse for zone heating. Its fan-forced nature means quick warmth, and the 360-degree output is genuinely effective for evenly heating a personal space.

PELONIS Oil Filled Radiator, Electric Space Heater for…

This second PELONIS oil-filled radiator steps up the game in terms of heating efficiency and intelligent features. The increased heat dissipation area with “Volcano thermal vents” really does make a noticeable difference, delivering 2X heating efficiency compared to some other models. It comfortably warms spaces up to 255 sq.ft., making it suitable for larger rooms. What truly makes this stand out are the 3 tailored modes: ECO, Sleep, and Memory. The ECO mode is brilliant for saving up to 40% energy, while Sleep mode automatically adjusts to maintain optimal comfort throughout the night – a fantastic feature I truly appreciate. The Memory mode saves my preferred settings, which is a small but welcome convenience. Like its Champagne sibling, it’s whisper-quiet and packed with advanced safety features.

Key features that stand out:
– Whole House Warmth: 39.5% increase in heat dissipation area and 108 Volcano thermal vents for 2X heating efficiency, warming up to 255 sq.ft.
– 3 Tailored Modes: ECO mode (saves up to 40% energy), Sleep mode (adjusts for optimal night comfort), and Memory mode (saves preferred settings).
– Precise Temperature Control: 3 settings (600W/900W/1500W) and adjustable thermostat with smart ECO mode (41-95℉, 1℉ increments).
– Whisper-Quiet: Less than 5dB noise level.
– Advanced Safety: Tip-over protection, V0 flame retardant materials, overheat auto-shutoff, and child lock.

Pros:
– Exceptional heating efficiency for larger spaces.
– Advanced modes (ECO, Sleep, Memory) offer significant energy savings and comfort.
– Extremely quiet operation.
– Precise temperature control.
– Comprehensive safety features, including a child lock.

Cons:
– Larger footprint due to increased heating elements.

Best for: Homeowners needing powerful, highly efficient, and quiet zone heating for medium to large rooms, with smart modes to further optimize energy usage and complement their Best Thermostat Settings for Winter Efficiency.

Expert Opinion: For an oil-filled radiator, this model is incredibly advanced. The combination of its increased heating surface and specialized modes makes it an intelligent choice for serious energy savings in specific areas of the home.

Caslant Smart WiFi Thermostat,Energy-Efficient Programmable

The Caslant Smart WiFi Thermostat offers a great entry point into smart home heating, especially if you’re looking for wide compatibility and ease of use. I found the wide compatibility with various heating and cooling systems, including heat pumps, reassuring, ensuring it would work with most setups. Easy DIY installation is a major plus; the instructions were clear, and I didn’t need a professional. The real power comes from its Smart APP and Voice Control, seamlessly integrating with Tuya Smart, Smart Life, Google Home, and Alexa. Being able to manage my heating with just my voice or a few taps on my phone, even when I’m not home, is incredibly convenient. The vivid touchscreen interface is also a highlight, making on-device adjustments simple and visually appealing. Its flexible 7-day programming is crucial for setting up energy-efficient schedules.

Key features that stand out:
– Wide Compatibility: Compatible with a variety of heating and cooling systems, including heat pumps and traditional multi-stage systems.
– Easy to Install: Designed for straightforward DIY installation with clear instructions.
– Smart APP and Voice Control: Integrates with Tuya Smart, Smart Life, Google Home, and Alexa for remote and hands-free management.
– Vivid Touchscreen Interface: Bright LED color screen with a comfortable, intuitive touch interface.
– Flexible 7-Day Programming: Optimize energy use with custom schedules for weekdays/weekends and peak/off-peak heating cycles.

Pros:
– Broad compatibility with different HVAC systems.
– Simple DIY installation process.
– Seamless integration with popular smart home platforms.
– Visually appealing and easy-to-use touchscreen.
– Robust scheduling options for energy savings.

Cons:
– May not offer the same level of detailed usage reports as some premium smart thermostats.

Best for: Tech-savvy homeowners seeking an affordable, highly compatible smart thermostat with strong app and voice control capabilities for efficient whole-home management and discovering their Best Thermostat Settings for Winter Efficiency.

Expert Opinion: This thermostat offers impressive smart features for its price point. Its wide compatibility and excellent smart home integration make it a very practical choice for modern homes looking to automate their heating efficiently.

Feekoon 1 Piece Thermostatically Controlled Outlet, On at…

This isn’t a thermostat in the traditional sense, but the Feekoon Thermostatically Controlled Outlet is an unsung hero for specific winter efficiency challenges. I’ve found it incredibly useful for preventing frozen pipes in unheated spaces like a garage or shed, or even for livestock waterers. It reliably senses temperature fluctuations to turn on at 32 degrees and off at 50 degrees. This simple, yet effective, automation saves energy and effort by only activating a connected device (like a small pipe heater or de-icer) when absolutely necessary. The convenience of having a standalone unit for these specific applications means I don’t have to fiddle with my main thermostat settings or remember to manually plug/unplug things. It’s a focused solution for a common winter problem.

Key features that stand out:
– Comfortable Winter: Effectively senses temperature fluctuations to turn on at 32°F and off at 50°F, saving energy and preventing freezing.
– 1 Set meet your needs: A separate thermostatic outlet for flexible use in different places.
– Wide Application: Can be used for chicken water heaters, pipe heat tape, pond de-icers, chicken farms, and more.
– Specifications: Input voltage: 100-120V, current: 10A, materials: ABS and PC.
– Package Includes: 1 piece thermostatic outlet with 1 piece user manual.

Pros:
– Highly effective for preventing freezing in specific applications.
– Completely automated, requiring no manual intervention.
– Energy-efficient by only operating when needed.
– Simple to use and install (just plug it in).
– Versatile for various niche winter needs.

Cons:
– Limited to basic on/off temperature thresholds, not a programmable thermostat.

Best for: Homeowners or property managers needing an automatic, specialized solution for preventing freezing in unheated areas or for outdoor equipment, thus complementing overall winter efficiency strategies beyond the main Best Thermostat Settings for Winter Efficiency.

Expert Opinion: While not a whole-home thermostat, this outlet is an indispensable tool for targeted winter protection and energy conservation in specific cold-sensitive applications. It’s an example of practical, localized “thermostat control” that pays for itself.

Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat for Smart Home, Pro…

The Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat is another excellent offering from Emerson, a slightly more streamlined version compared to its Touch counterpart, but still packed with powerful smart features. Like the Sensi Touch, it’s ENERGY STAR certified and promises about 23% savings on HVAC energy. What I really appreciate is how most installations take 30 minutes or less, thanks to the built-in level and clear app instructions – and it’s sized to cover most existing thermostat wall marks, saving you from painting! Its smart home compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, and SmartThings makes it incredibly versatile. I frequently use the geofencing feature, which automatically adjusts the temperature when I leave or return home, maximizing efficiency without me lifting a finger. The usage reports and smart alerts for extreme temperatures are also very helpful for proactive management.

Key features that stand out:
– Save About 23% on HVAC Energy: ENERGY STAR certified with geofencing, 7-day flexible scheduling, remote access, and in-app system usage.
– Most Install in 30 Minutes or Less: Built-in level and step-by-step app instructions for quick installation, standard thermostat size to avoid wall repairs.
– Smart Home Compatible: Works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit (c-wire required), and Samsung SmartThings.
– Usage Reports: Monitor current day and historical heating, cooling, and fan runtimes in the app.
– Control from Anywhere: Remotely control home comfort via the Sensi mobile app.
– Smart Alerts: Detects extreme temperature and humidity levels.

Pros:
– Significant energy savings with ENERGY STAR certification and geofencing.
– Very easy and quick installation.
– Broad compatibility with major smart home platforms.
– Provides useful usage data and proactive smart alerts.
– Remote control via a user-friendly app.

Cons:
– Apple HomeKit functionality requires a c-wire, which might not be present in all homes.

Best for: Homeowners seeking a highly compatible, energy-saving smart thermostat with geofencing and comprehensive smart home integration, ideal for setting the Best Thermostat Settings for Winter Efficiency on a schedule or automatically.

Expert Opinion: This Sensi model is a robust, feature-rich smart thermostat that delivers exceptional value. Its combination of geofencing and broad smart home compatibility makes it a fantastic choice for modern households focused on automated energy efficiency.

Comparison Insights

When looking at the Best Thermostat Settings for Winter Efficiency, it’s clear there are different approaches depending on your needs. For whole-home, intelligent climate control, devices like the Emerson Sensi Touch, Caslant Smart WiFi Thermostat, and Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat are your best bet. They offer deep integration with smart home ecosystems, detailed programming, and remote access. The Emerson Sensi models stand out for their robust energy reporting and privacy guarantees, while the Caslant offers impressive compatibility and voice control at a competitive price. If you’re a data enthusiast wanting to track every bit of energy use, the Sensi models with their usage reports are hard to beat.

However, a smart thermostat isn’t always the full solution. For targeted zone heating, where you want to keep specific rooms warm without heating the entire house, the PELONIS Oil Filled Radiator heaters and the Honeywell Fan Forced Heater shine. The PELONIS models, particularly the advanced one with ECO and Sleep modes, provide a whisper-quiet, sustained warmth that’s ideal for bedrooms or offices, making them perfect for maintaining comfort while lowering your central thermostat. The Honeywell offers rapid, 360-degree heat for quick comfort in smaller, transient spaces. Choosing a space heater with an effective ECO mode or precise temperature settings allows you to achieve impressive localized efficiency.

Finally, for specialized winter protection, the Feekoon Thermostatically Controlled Outlet is a unique and indispensable tool. It’s not about adjusting your main home temperature, but about automating crucial freeze prevention for pipes or outdoor equipment, saving you from potentially costly damage and significant headaches. It’s a simple device that solves a very specific problem efficiently.

Ultimately, the Best Thermostat Settings for Winter Efficiency often involves a multi-pronged approach: a smart whole-home thermostat for foundational control, supplemented by efficient zone heaters for occupied areas, and specialized devices for critical protection.

Final Verdict

Navigating the world of winter heating efficiency can seem daunting, but with the right tools, it becomes an achievable goal. If your primary goal is comprehensive, data-driven whole-home energy savings and smart automation, either the Emerson Sensi Touch or the Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat are outstanding choices, offering robust features, excellent app control, and valuable usage insights. For those prioritizing smart home integration and budget-friendly programmable control, the Caslant Smart WiFi Thermostat delivers exceptional value.

For maximizing comfort in specific rooms while keeping your main thermostat lower, the PELONIS Oil Filled Radiators are superb, especially the advanced model with its ECO and Sleep modes which provide quiet, sustained, and intelligent zone heating. If you need instant, portable warmth for smaller spaces, the Honeywell HHF370B is a reliable option.

And don’t overlook the specialized needs! For critical freeze prevention in unheated areas, the Feekoon Thermostatically Controlled Outlet is a simple yet incredibly effective solution.

The key to your Best Thermostat Settings for Winter Efficiency lies in understanding your home’s unique heating patterns and choosing the devices that best complement your lifestyle and energy-saving goals.

FAQ Section

Q1: What are the Best Thermostat Settings for Winter Efficiency to save money?
A1: The general recommendation for the Best Thermostat Settings for Winter Efficiency is to set your thermostat to around 68°F (20°C) when you’re home and awake. When you’re asleep or away, you can typically lower it by 7-10°F (4-6°C) for several hours to save a significant amount of energy. Smart thermostats with scheduling, geofencing (like the Emerson Sensi models), or ECO modes (found in PELONIS heaters) can automate these adjustments for maximum savings.

Q2: How do smart thermostats contribute to the Best Thermostat Settings for Winter Efficiency?
A2: Smart thermostats, such as the Emerson Sensi Touch or Caslant, offer features like programmable scheduling, remote access, geofencing, and learning capabilities. These allow for precise control and automation of your Best Thermostat Settings for Winter Efficiency, ensuring heating is only used when and where it’s needed, reducing waste, and providing usage reports to track energy consumption.

Q3: Can using space heaters alongside my main thermostat actually save energy?
A3: Yes, strategically using efficient space heaters (like the PELONIS Oil Filled Radiators or Honeywell HHF370B) for zone heating can contribute to the Best Thermostat Settings for Winter Efficiency. By lowering your central thermostat and only heating the rooms you’re actively using, you can avoid heating unoccupied areas, potentially leading to significant overall energy savings. Look for space heaters with ECO modes or adjustable thermostats for best results.

Q4: What’s the role of a “c-wire” in smart thermostat installation, and is it always necessary for Best Thermostat Settings for Winter Efficiency?
A4: A c-wire (common wire) provides continuous power to your smart thermostat, which is essential for Wi-Fi connectivity and advanced features. Many smart thermostats, like the Emerson Sensi Touch and Caslant, require a c-wire. While some can operate on battery power for basic functions, full smart home integration and consistent performance often necessitate it. Always check the specific requirements for the thermostat you’re considering to ensure compatibility with your HVAC system for optimal Best Thermostat Settings for Winter Efficiency.

Q5: How important is programmable scheduling for achieving the Best Thermostat Settings for Winter Efficiency?
A5: Programmable scheduling is incredibly important. It allows you to set different temperatures for various times of the day and days of the week, aligning with your family’s routine. This prevents heating your home when no one is there or when everyone is asleep, directly leading to energy savings. Thermostats like the Caslant and Emerson Sensi models offer flexible 7-day programming, which is a cornerstone of the Best Thermostat Settings for Winter Efficiency.

Q6: Are thermostatically controlled outlets useful for general home heating or just specific situations?
A6: Devices like the Feekoon Thermostatically Controlled Outlet are primarily designed for specific, niche situations rather than general home heating. They are excellent for preventing freezing in isolated areas (e.g., pipes, chicken coops, sheds) by automatically activating a device when temperatures drop to a critical level. While they don’t directly control your main home heating, they contribute to overall winter efficiency by preventing costly damage and conserving energy in these targeted applications, making them a part of a broader strategy for Best Thermostat Settings for Winter Efficiency.

Q7: How can I monitor my heating usage to ensure I’m using the Best Thermostat Settings for Winter Efficiency?
A7: Many smart thermostats, including the Emerson Sensi models, offer in-app usage reports that show you historical heating and cooling runtimes. This data is invaluable for understanding your energy consumption patterns, identifying periods of high usage, and making informed adjustments to your Best Thermostat Settings for Winter Efficiency. Regularly reviewing these reports can help you fine-tune your schedules and maximize savings.