Recommended Thermostat Settings For Winter and Summer

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Recommended Thermostat Settings For
Winter And Summer

Get The Perfect Temperature For Any Season
With Our Expert Thermostat Tips

Whether it’s summer or winter, you want your home to be at the perfect temperature year-round. But how do you know which temperature settings are best for each season? Experienced HVAC contractors recommend maintaining moderate temperatures in your home for both comfort and energy efficiency.

With the correct thermostat settings, you can create the perfect environment while saving money on energy bills. The US Department of Energy recommends setting thermostats to higher temperatures when you’re away from home to allow a break for your air conditioner. 

Depending on your personal preference and the layout of your home, you may need to adjust the temperatures for greater comfort. Plus, regular maintenance on your HVAC system will help optimize temperatures in your home while keeping your unit in tip-top shape.

To get the most out of your thermostat and home, read our tips on recommended settings for winter and summer.

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Winter Settings For Your Thermostat

When it’s cold outside, setting your thermostat to the recommended 68 degrees Fahrenheit will keep the furnace running efficiently and reduce energy bills. For extra coziness, you may set it a few degrees higher (71-72°F). Additionally, keep the temperature consistent by avoiding extreme changes throughout the day – sudden spikes can cost you high energy bills.

For instance, if you’re feeling a little chilly throughout the day or at night, resist the temptation to crank your thermostat. Instead, grab an extra layer or blanket from the closet and bundle up on the couch. 

Consider using a programmable thermostat to adjust temperatures throughout the day. This will allow you to reduce energy costs without manually changing your settings. For example, you could set the thermostat to a lower temperature when sleeping.

Ensure your thermostat is set to “heat” or “auto.” This will prevent the system from switching from heating to cooling when temperatures drop. Also, schedule regular maintenance on your furnace throughout winter to keep your system running efficiently and avoid unnecessary repairs or breakdowns.

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Summer Settings For Your Thermostat

Setting your thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit (26°C) during the summer will keep your air conditioner running efficiently and cool your home comfortably. You may even set it a few degrees lower (76-77°F) for extra cooling power. 

Like in the winter, you can use a programmable thermostat to your advantage while saving on energy bills. But be sure not to let the temperature fluctuate too drastically.

Also, switch the thermostat to “cool” or “auto” to avoid switching your system to heating when temperatures rise. Like winter maintenance, keep up with regular AC tune-ups to keep your system running efficiently and avoid costly repairs.

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Ideal Thermostat Settings When You’re Away From Home

When you’re away from home for extended periods, follow the Rule of 8, which means setting the thermostat 8°F (4.5°C) higher than normal in summer and 8°F (4.5°C) lower in winter. For example, if your temperature is usually set at 78°F while at home during the summer months, adjust it up to 86°F before heading out.

When you return, switch your thermostat to its regular settings for comfort and energy efficiency. A smart thermostat can help with that. It allows you to control your home temperature from anywhere with an internet connection. This can save you money on energy bills by not having to adjust settings manually or overcompensate for extreme swings in temperatures.

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Keep Your Home Comfortable Year-Round

Maintaining the correct temperature in your home can be tricky, especially when you factor in personal preference, interior layout, and seasonal changes. For example, if you have an open-concept floor plan in your home, you may find that the temperature isn’t staying consistent across all rooms.

In this case, it might be worth investing in a zoning system with multiple thermostats to maintain the correct temperature in each room. If you’re unsure of which thermostat settings are suitable for your home and budget, contact an HVAC professional. They can also suggest proper system upgrades that meet your needs.

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Innovative Air Offers Comprehensive Heating
And Cooling Services

As a Pearl-certified company, Innovative Air understands the importance of maintaining comfortable temperatures in your home throughout winter and summer. That’s why we offer routine HVAC maintenance services to help you keep your thermostat settings at their optimal level.

Our knowledgeable technicians have the experience to handle all types of HVAC repairs, maintenance, and installations. Contact us today at (914) 855-1888 to schedule an appointment.