Experts Share The Best Thermostat Settings For Each Season
Finding the right temperature for your home isn't always as straightforward as it may seem. It’s not just about comfort, it’s about balancing energy efficiency, seasonal changes, health, and even sleep quality. Experts in HVAC, energy use, and home living agree that with a few adjustments throughout the year, your thermostat can help you stay comfortable and save money. Here’s what they recommend as the best thermostat settings, and why they work.
Winter
In colder months, 68°F during the day is a common recommendation. It's warm enough to stay comfortable with a sweater on, but cool enough to keep energy bills under control. At night, lowering it to around 60-65°F can actually help you sleep better and ease the load on your heating system. Keeping it too warm dries out the air and only increases energy use. Layering clothing and using draft stoppers can help make this range feel just right.
Spring
Spring is when your HVAC system first gets a break a break. As outdoor temperatures settle into a more comfortable range, open your windows whenever possible and let fresh air circulate. Experts suggest keeping your thermostat between 65 and 70°F during this time. You may find that some days you can turn it off entirely. Let the weather work for you, when you can and use this shoulder season to check your system, replace filters, and prep for warmer months.
Summer
Experts suggest setting your thermostat to 78°F when you're home during summer. It might seem high, but your body adjusts quicker than you'd think. Use fans to help move the air around where possible, making it feel cooler without touching the thermostat. When you leave the house, bump it up to 85°F to avoid wasting energy. Air conditioning uses a lot of power, so small adjustments in this range can lead to some noticeable savings without you needing to sacrifice your own comfort.
Fall
Fall brings the first wave of cooler nights and crisp air, making it a good time to lower your daytime settings again. Somewhere around 68°F during the day and 60-65°F at night, similar to winter, is usually enough. If your home gets chilly early in the morning, consider a programmable thermostat to warm it slightly before you wake up. Fall is also a smart time to schedule HVAC maintenance before winter hits and make sure your system is running as it should.
Nighttime
At night, temperatures should generally drop regardless of the season. Your body sleeps better in cooler conditions, and you use less energy in the meantime. In winter, 60-65°F is ideal. In summer, around 70-72°F works well if you're using air conditioning. If your home has a programmable or smart thermostat, setting automatic changes for night hours can take care of this without you needing to think about it.
Thermostat settings aren't just about what feels good right now. They affect your health, your sleep, your bills, and even your HVAC system’s lifespan. By making smaller, but smarter adjustments each season, you can stay comfortable and avoid overworking your system. It doesn’t take much to make a noticeable impact. A few degrees in the right direction, at the right time, really does go a long way.