What Temperature Should I Set My Thermostat?

There is no hard and fast rule for what temperature you "should" set your thermostat to, but there are factors to consider when setting the optimal temperature for your own needs. What works for someone else's budget, comfort, and HVAC system might not be right for yours.

Where to Start

Depending on the season, the optimal temperature for comfort and energy efficiency is between 68° and 78° F. During the winter months the recommended thermostat setting is around 68° while the summer recommended settings are closer to 78°. Starting around these levels and making incremental changes can help you find your personal preference.

Consider Your Thermostat

Your home does not have to be the same temperature throughout the day or week. According to the Department of Energy, you can save up to 10% a year on your heating and cooling when you set back the thermostat 7-10 degrees from your typical setting for 8 hours a day. If you have a programmable thermostat, make sure to program it! Your wallet will thank you for programming the optimal temperature for the time of day, day of the week, and for who is home. One of our technicians would be happy to help you set up your thermostat if needed during your next tune-up. Some models even have special additional features that learn your patterns and automatically adjust for both comfort and energy savings. New Smart Thermostats allow you to change the temperature or schedules from anywhere with Wifi.

Tips to Save Money

  • Set your thermostat to auto.

  • Place your thermostat away from vents, doors, or windows.

  • Don't adjust your thermostat too many times throughout one day.

  • Turn off the heating or cooling system in zones of your home that you're not using.

In the Summer

  • Start with a temperature of 78 degrees and then adjust up or down.

  • Use a fan to improve airflow.

  • Don't set your air conditioner to more than 20 degrees below the outside temperature.

  • Close blinds during the heat of the day.

In the Winter

  • Open your blinds to let in radiant heat.

  • Lower your thermostat when you're asleep.

  • Wear more clothing or use more blankets.

  • Set ceiling fans to counterclockwise to push rising warm air into living space.

Still feeling uneasy about choosing the right temperature for your home? Contact our trusted and certified team of HVAC professionals at Total Temperature Control for more help.

Whether you need 24-7 emergency service or a solution to improve your indoor comfort—at home and work—call us at 781-224-2400 or submit a convenient contact form.

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