If you’re trying to lower your utility bills without sacrificing comfort, your thermostat is a great place to start. The recommended thermostat settings for summer and winter can help you save money while keeping your home comfortable all year long.
Let’s look at the best energy efficient thermostat settings, how to use programmable thermostats, and tips on how to set your thermostat season by season.
Recommended Thermostat Setting for Summer
When the heat of summer rolls in, it’s tempting to blast the air conditioner all day. But keeping your thermostat setting for summer too low can send your electric bill soaring.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the ideal temperature to set your thermostat in the summer is 78 degrees Fahrenheit when you’re at home. This strikes a balance between comfort and savings.
Benefits of This Setting:
- Helps reduce your energy cost by not overworking your HVAC system
- Keeps your indoor temperature cool enough for comfort
- Maximizes the efficiency of your air conditioner
When you’re away from home, increase the setting by 7–10 degrees. This can result in significant home energy savings.
For even better results, try these summer thermostat tips:
- Use ceiling fans to help cool your home more effectively
- Keep blinds or curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day
- Avoid cooking with the oven during peak hours
Winter Thermostat Setting Recommendations
When it’s cold outside, the recommended winter thermostat setting is 68 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. This may feel a bit cooler than you’re used to, but it’s ideal for cutting back on your heating bill.
Lowering your thermostat while you’re asleep or away from home by just 7–10 degrees for eight hours a day can save up to 10% a year on heating.
Why Set the Thermostat to 68 Degrees?
- Reduces energy cost by limiting how hard your furnace works
- Keeps your home warm enough to be comfortable with a sweater or blanket
- Prevents overheating your space and drying out indoor air
If you tend to feel chilly, layering clothing or using a space heater in a small area can help you stay comfortable while sticking to the recommended setting.
Thermostat Settings to Save Money
So, how do you apply these thermostat settings to save money throughout the year?
Start by investing in a programmable thermostat. These devices let you adjust the temperature based on your schedule and make smart changes automatically.
Key Features of Programmable Thermostats:
- Set different temperature settings for weekdays and weekends
- Automatically lower or raise the thermostat setting for summer or winter based on when you’re home or asleep
- Some smart models can even learn your habits or be controlled from your phone
By programming your thermostat correctly, you avoid heating or cooling an empty house—and that means lower utility bills without sacrificing comfort.
How to Set Thermostat for Maximum Savings
If you’re wondering how to set thermostat settings that actually save you money, follow these easy strategies:
Summer Thermostat Setting Tips:
- Set your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home
- Raise it to 85°F or higher when you’re away
- Use fans to circulate cool air efficiently
Winter Thermostat Setting Tips:
- Keep your thermostat at 68°F while you’re awake and home
- Lower it to 60–65°F when you’re asleep or away
- Keep doors and windows sealed to prevent heat loss
Making small adjustments throughout the day—just a few degrees at a time—can make a big difference in your energy cost.
The Bottom Line: Comfort and Savings Can Coexist
Finding the right recommended thermostat settings for summer and winter doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. With a few smart changes and a programmable thermostat, you can stay cozy in winter, cool in summer, and save money year-round.
Still have questions about your thermostat or looking to upgrade your HVAC system? Contact the experts at Rick’s Affordable Heating & Cooling. We’ll help you optimize comfort and energy efficiency every season.
