Best Thermostat Settings for Saving Money

Quick Answer: Set Your Thermostat to These Temperatures

For immediate savings, use these proven settings. They balance comfort and energy efficiency based on U.S. Department of Energy recommendations.

Key rule: Set back your temperature 7–10°F for at least 8 hours daily to cut annual HVAC costs by up to 10%. A programmable or smart thermostat makes this automatic and worry-free.

Why These Settings Work

The smaller the difference between indoor and outdoor temperature, the less your system runs. In summer, 78°F indoors may feel warm, but a ceiling fan makes it feel 4°F cooler. In winter, 68°F is comfortable with a sweater. Every degree of setback over 8 hours can save about 1% on your bill.

Smart Thermostats: The Real Money-Saver

If you still have a manual thermostat, upgrading is the single best move. Smart thermostats learn your schedule, use geofencing (learn more), and provide energy reports. They can pay for themselves in under two years. If you’re comfortable with low‑voltage wiring, many models can be self‑installed (see wiring basics), but always turn off power first. Otherwise, hire a qualified technician—expect installation to cost $100–$250 on top of the device.

Smart thermostats also enable zoning when paired with compatible dampers (zoning guide). This lets you set different temperatures for each room, cutting waste in unoccupied spaces.

Safety Boundaries: What You Can and Cannot Do

Homeowner-Safe Checks & Tasks

• Replace disposable air filters every 1–3 months (monthly if pets).
• Check thermostat batteries; clean dust off sensors.
• Keep supply and return vents unblocked by furniture or curtains.
• Gently rinse outdoor condenser fins with a garden hose (power off).
• Inspect visible ductwork for gaps; seal with mastic or metal tape—not duct tape.

Pro‑Only Work—Do Not Attempt

• Refrigerant handling, leak repair, or adding refrigerant.
• Electrical component replacement (capacitors, contactors, control boards, motors).
• Compressor or combustion system work.
• High‑voltage wiring or circuit additions (C‑wire runs behind walls).

If your thermostat wiring requires a new wire or you’re uncomfortable, find a certified HVAC contractor near you.

Tools to Fine‑Tune Your Savings

• HVAC Cost Estimator – Budget for a new thermostat, AC, or furnace.
• Repair or Replace Calculator – See if a new system beats constant fixes.
• BTU Calculator – Size your next system accurately.
• Rebate Finder – Uncover utility rebates for smart thermostats and efficient HVAC.
• System Age Decoder – Check if your unit is due for replacement.

Decision Tree: Adjust, Upgrade, or Call a Pro?

Use these rules to decide your next step.

1. Is your thermostat manual and you often forget to adjust it? → Buy a programmable or smart thermostat. Budget $30–$250.
2. Do you already have a programmable model but bills are still high? → Review your schedule: make sure setbacks are at least 7°F for 8+ hours. Then, check filter, duct leaks, and consider an energy audit.
3. Have a heat pump? → Check the manual or ask a pro: some older heat pumps cannot handle large setbacks without expensive auxiliary heat kicking in. In such cases, limit setbacks to 3–5°F or use a smart thermostat with heat‑pump optimization.
4. Considering a new whole‑home system? → Run the repair or replace calculator first. Then get at least three quotes and ask the questions below.

Questions to Ask an HVAC Contractor

Before hiring for thermostat installation or system work, verify their expertise with these questions:

• Are you licensed, bonded, and insured for HVAC work in my state?
• Can you provide a written estimate that separates parts and labor?
• Do you have experience installing smart thermostats with my specific system (e.g., heat pump, dual fuel)?
• What rebates or manufacturer incentives can I get, and will you handle the paperwork?
• What maintenance plan do you offer, and what does it include?
• How do you handle emergency call‑outs, and what are typical response times?
• Will you inspect ductwork and insulation as part of the installation?
• Can you provide references from similar homes in my area?

Climate‑Specific Thermostat Tips

Hot/Dry Climates (e.g., Phoenix, Las Vegas)

Summer: Set to 78°F when home, but use fans and keep blinds closed during peak hours. Consider a programmable thermostat that pre‑cools your home during off‑peak rates. If your AC struggles, get a Phoenix‑area AC checkup.

Hot/Humid Climates (e.g., Houston, Miami)

Humidity is the enemy. Don’t turn the AC off completely when away; set it to 82–85°F to keep moisture under control. A dehumidifier or a variable‑speed system can help. Check your condensate drain monthly.

Cold Climates (e.g., Fargo, Chicago)

Winter: Keep the home at least 55–60°F even when away to prevent frozen pipes. Smart thermostats can alert you if indoor temperature drops dangerously. For heating repair, find Chicago heating pros.

Mild/Coastal Climates (e.g., San Francisco, Seattle)

Often you can open windows at night instead of running AC. Use a thermostat with humidity sensing to avoid mold. Portable or ductless heat pumps may be more efficient than central systems.

Older or Drafty Homes

Insulation and air sealing matter more than your thermostat setting. Use the BTU calculator to see if your system is oversized. Add weatherstripping and attic insulation before investing in a smart thermostat.

Methodology: What These Numbers Are Based On

Our thermostat recommendations come from the U.S. Department of Energy and Energy Star, which cite 1% savings per degree of setback over an 8‑hour period. Cost estimates are editorial ranges drawn from national contractor surveys, manufacturer data, and our in‑house HVAC cost database. They are not guaranteed quotes but reflect typical prices as of 2025. Always obtain multiple written estimates for your specific home and system.

Frequently Asked Questions