Set your thermostat to 68°F (20°C) during the day and lower it at night or when away to maximize heating efficiency and reduce energy costs.
Setting your thermostat correctly can slash your energy bills while keeping your home comfortable. The right temperature settings depend on your schedule, home insulation, and heating system type. This guide reveals the most efficient thermostat strategies backed by energy experts.
Optimal Temperature Settings for Winter
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends these temperature settings for maximum efficiency:
| Time/Day | Recommended Setting |
|---|---|
| When awake at home | 68°F (20°C) |
| When sleeping or away | 58-62°F (14-16°C) |
For every degree you lower your thermostat during these periods, you save about 1% on your heating bill. A 10°F reduction for 8 hours daily can save up to 10% annually.
Why These Temperatures Work
Cold air is denser than warm air. When it’s cold outside, heat escapes your home faster when indoor temperatures are higher. Maintaining lower temperatures when possible slows heat loss significantly.
Programmable Thermostat Strategies
Modern programmable thermostats offer the easiest way to maintain efficient temperatures. Consider these scheduling tips:
Basic 7-Day Schedule
- Weekdays: Lower temp 30 mins before leaving for work, raise 30 mins before returning
- Weekends: Maintain daytime comfort temp longer
- Every night: Begin temperature drop 30 mins before bedtime
Advanced Multi-Period Programming
Many thermostats allow 4+ daily periods. Try this pattern:
- 6:00 AM – Wake up to 68°F
- 8:00 AM – Drop to 62°F when leaving
- 4:30 PM – Warm to 68°F before return
- 10:00 PM – Reduce to 62°F for sleep
For homes with built-in gas heaters, consider shorter setback periods as these systems take longer to warm spaces.
Special Considerations by Heating System
Heat Pumps
Avoid large temperature setbacks with heat pumps. These systems work most efficiently maintaining steady temperatures. Consider a special heat pump thermostat with optimized algorithms.
Electric Baseboard Heaters
Use thermostats specifically designed for line-voltage systems. These require different programming approaches than low-voltage systems.
Steam/Radiant Systems
These slow-response systems benefit from longer pre-heat periods. Begin warming 2-3 hours before needed comfort times.
Smart Thermostat Features That Boost Efficiency
Geofencing
Uses your smartphone’s location to automatically adjust temperatures when you leave or return home.
Learning Algorithms
Devices like Nest learn your schedule and preferences to create automatic, optimized programs.
Remote Access
Adjust settings from anywhere via app – perfect for unexpected schedule changes.
Energy Usage Reports
Track heating patterns and identify additional savings opportunities.
Common Thermostat Mistakes to Avoid
- Cranking up the heat: Setting extreme temperatures doesn’t warm your home faster
- Ignoring sunlight: South-facing rooms may need lower thermostat settings
- Poor placement: Avoid putting thermostats near drafts, vents, or heat sources
- Forgetting maintenance: Dirty thermostats can give false readings
For homes with water heater thermostat controls, remember that these work independently from your home thermostat.
Additional Efficiency Tips
- Seal air leaks around windows and doors
- Add insulation in attics and basements
- Use ceiling fans in reverse to circulate warm air
- Keep vents unobstructed by furniture
- Schedule annual furnace maintenance
According to Energy.gov, proper thermostat use combined with these measures can reduce heating costs by 15-30%.
