Summer Thermostat Tips to Maximize Comfort and Savings

The thermostat is often called the “brains” of your home’s heating and cooling system. A well-programmed thermostat can provide the ideal balance between comfort and energy efficiency by adjusting temperatures based on local climate, daily schedules, and personal comfort needs. Whether you’re in Arlington Heights, Evanston, or Downers Grove in Illinois or in Tampa or Largo in Florida, tailoring your thermostat settings to the season can help you stay cool, reduce costs, and maintain a comfortable indoor environment all summer long.

1. Program Your Thermostat Properly

Many homeowners underuse their programmable thermostats, treating them like simple on/off switches. However, these devices are designed to operate according to customized schedules that automatically regulate heating and cooling when you’re away or asleep. This feature can immediately lower your monthly energy bills.

Why Scheduling Matters: By coordinating your thermostat settings around your daily routine, you ensure that your air conditioner (or heater) is not running needlessly when no one is home. For instance, if your home is empty during work hours (e.g., 8 AM to 5 PM), you can set the thermostat to allow the temperature to rise a few degrees (in summer) or drop a few degrees (in winter).

Quick Cost Breakdown: A well-programmed thermostat can reduce your heating and cooling costs by up to 10–30%, depending on factors like home insulation, local climate, and how diligently you stick to your schedule. Over time, these savings can more than offset the cost of upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat.

2. Optimize Seasonal Temperature Settings

Programming the right thermostat settings can vary based on the season, geographic location, and personal preferences. Below are some recommended temperature setpoints for maximum comfort and efficiency:

Summer Settings
• 78°F when you’re home
• 85°F when you’re away
• 82°F when you’re asleep

Winter Settings
• 68°F when you’re home
• 60°F when you’re away
• 60°F when you’re asleep

Adjusting for Illinois vs. Florida: • Illinois (Arlington Heights, Evanston, Downers Grove): Summers can still be hot and humid, so keeping your thermostat at or near 78°F helps balance comfort with energy savings. In winter, temperatures can plummet quickly, making those recommended winter setpoints crucial for efficient heating.
• Florida (Tampa, Largo): High humidity can make outdoor temperatures feel even warmer. You may find a slightly higher indoor setpoint acceptable if you also manage humidity effectively (e.g., via variable-speed systems or dehumidifiers).

Adjust your thermostat during spring and fall as temperatures fluctuate more between daytime highs and nighttime lows. Often, you can turn off or limit cooling/heating during moderate days, opening windows or using fans to circulate air for additional savings.

3. Consider Humidity Levels

Humidity heavily influences perceived temperature. In humid weather, an 80°F day can feel like 90°F due to moisture in the air. Some modern thermostats support humidity control or integrate seamlessly with variable-speed HVAC systems to remove more moisture when needed.

Why It’s Important: • Humidity in Florida: Places like Tampa and Largo can experience extremely humid summers. A thermostat with humidity controls ensures the air conditioner runs long enough to dehumidify your home while preventing excessive energy consumption.
• Humidity in Illinois: Humidity can still be significant in summer months, and dryness can be an issue during cold winters. Controlling moisture year-round can improve overall indoor air quality and reduce strain on your HVAC system.

4. Additional Tips for Summer Thermostat Use

• Use Ceiling Fans Wisely: Running fans can make a room feel several degrees cooler, allowing you to keep your thermostat slightly higher without sacrificing comfort.
• Close Curtains and Blinds: Blocking direct sunlight can reduce indoor heat gain, especially during peak afternoon hours.
• Seal and Insulate: If your home has air leaks or insufficient insulation, your air conditioner works harder to maintain a set temperature. Proper weatherproofing can complement smart thermostat settings.

Common FAQs About Summer Thermostat Settings

Q: Should I turn the air conditioner off entirely when I’m away?
A: Turning it off may lead to excessive heat buildup, which can stress your system when you return. Instead, raise the temperature by 5–7°F to save energy without creating extreme indoor temperatures.

Q: Can a Wi-Fi–enabled or smart thermostat reduce my bills further?
A: Absolutely. Smart models let you adjust settings remotely if your schedule changes. They can also learn your daily habits, making energy-saving adjustments automatically.

Q: What if I have a variable schedule?
A: Consider a thermostat that supports multiple programs or has geo-fencing capabilities. This way, your system can detect when you’re out and set temperatures to an eco-friendly mode.

Q: Does a programmable thermostat help with humidity control?
A: Some advanced models integrate humidity sensors. Alternatively, pairing a programmable thermostat with a variable-speed HVAC system or a dedicated dehumidifier can help maintain optimal moisture levels.

Q: Are the recommended setpoints right for everyone?
A: Not necessarily. Every home is different, and personal comfort is subjective. Start with these guidelines and adjust slightly based on your preferences.

Basic Troubleshooting & Maintenance Tips

• Battery Check: If your thermostat isn’t holding its settings, the batteries might be low. Some thermostats require a constant power source (C-wire).
• Regular Cleaning: Dust and debris can affect the thermostat’s sensors. Gently clean the device every few months.
• Firmware Updates (Smart Thermostats): Ensure your device’s software is up to date for improved performance and security.
• Call a Professional: If you’re unsure about wiring or your HVAC system’s compatibility, contact a licensed technician to avoid potential damage or safety risks.

Why Proper Thermostat Use Matters

Thoughtful thermostat settings not only lower your energy bills but also reduce wear and tear on your HVAC system. A unit that isn’t constantly cycling can last longer and require fewer repairs. Over time, strategic thermostat use can translate into hundreds or even thousands of dollars in savings while preserving a comfortable indoor environment for you and your family.

Ready to Upgrade or Need Expert Help?

If you want to optimize your thermostat settings this summer—whether you live in Arlington Heights, Evanston, Downers Grove, Tampa, or Largo—our team at ABC Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, Cooling and Electric is here to help. Scroll further down the page, locate the ABC Plumbing location closest to you, and click the phone number to call us. We can recommend the right programmable or smart thermostat, install it professionally, and show you how to use it for maximum comfort and savings.

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