Cooler weather is coming to Delaware. How to set your thermostat
We've survived a hot summer with multiple heat waves and some nasty storms and floods.
Are you ready for the Earth to tilt and deliver some cooler weather?
When does fall begin?
If you asked the National Weather Service, it already did. Meteorological fall started on Sept. 1. The season ends on Nov. 30.
If you asked almost anyone else, fall begins on Sept. 22, or the autumnal equinox. Daylight everywhere is 12 hours long. It ends on Dec. 21.
When will cooler weather hit Delaware?
First, define cooler. We're almost there if you're looking for days where the high stays in the 70s. AccuWeather.com predicts the last day of 80 temperatures in Delaware is around Sept. 22. After that, it's all 70s. If you're looking for highs in the 60s, you'll have to wait until October.
About the same time Delaware drops below 80, you'll also see low temps in the evening going below 60 degrees for lovely sleeping weather.
What should I set the thermostat at during cooler weather?
Ah, the age-old debate. Far be it from us to get involved in any family conflicts about the thermostat.
However, the United States Department of Energy does have a suggestion, "You can easily save energy in the winter by setting the thermostat to around 68°F to 70°F while you're awake and setting it lower while you're asleep or away from home."
Are you ready for winter?: Who's more accurate for winter forecasts: Farmers' Almanac or National Weather Service?
How to reduce your heating bill
Here are some easy tips to help reduce your heating bill before cold weather hits.
Look for drafts around doors and windows — fix them and winterize the windows
Unblock your vents by making sure no furniture is covering them, and get ducts cleaned
Check your air filters and replace them as needed
Schedule a tune-up for your furnace
Fill up on heating fuel sources such as oil, gas or firewood
Turn on the thermostat and make sure it is working
This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: When is cooler weather coming to Delaware? How to set your thermostat