How to Choose the Best Temperature Settings Year-Round for Your HVAC System in GA and AL

Finding the right balance between comfort and energy savings can be a challenge, especially in the unpredictable climates along the Alabama and Georgia border, where sometimes we experience all four seasons in the span of one day…or one hour.

In every season, your HVAC system works hard to keep your home comfortable, but improper temperature settings can lead to higher energy bills and unnecessary strain on your system. By optimizing your thermostat settings, you can stay comfortable while saving money.

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Each Season

Spring & Fall: Mild Weather, Maximum Savings

During the transitional seasons of Spring and Fall, you can take advantage of milder temperatures by adjusting your thermostat to a temperature setting that suits most individuals and mirrors the mid-range temperatures outside that are neither extremely hot or extremely cold.

• When at home: Set your thermostat to 68-72°F for a balance of comfort and efficiency.
• When away: Lower the temperature to 62-66°F if heating or raise it to 74-78°F if cooling to reduce energy consumption.
• At night: A slight reduction (around 65-68°F) can improve sleep quality while also conserving energy.

During these seasons that have moderate temperatures, you can also use ceiling fans, open windows and natural ventilation to maintain comfort without overworking your HVAC system.

Summer: Staying Cool Without Breaking the Bank

Summers in Alabama and Georgia can be brutally hot, making it tempting to keep your air conditioning running constantly. However, smart thermostat management can help you stay cool while still keeping costs down.

• When at home: Set your thermostat to 75-78°F for optimal energy savings and comfort.
• When away: Increase the temperature to 82-85°F to prevent unnecessary cooling.
• At night: Keeping your home around 70-72°F can improve sleep quality while keeping energy use reasonable.

Additional tips for summer savings:

• Use ceiling fans to enhance cooling efficiency, allowing you to raise the thermostat a few degrees without sacrificing comfort.
• Close blinds and curtains during peak sunlight hours to reduce indoor heat gain.
• Consider a smart thermostat to automatically adjust settings based on your schedule and preferences.

Winter: Staying Warm While Saving Energy

Winter temperatures in the Auburn and Columbus areas aren’t often extreme, but heating costs can still add up. Adjusting your thermostat properly for the winter weather can lead to significant energy savings.

• When at home: Set the thermostat to 68-70°F to maintain comfort while minimizing energy usage.
• When away: Lower the temperature to 60-65°F to conserve energy when no one is home.
• At night: Reduce the temperature to 62-66°F for better sleep and lower heating costs.

Additional winter energy-saving tips:

• Use programmable thermostats to schedule heating adjustments automatically.
• Seal gaps around windows and doors to prevent heat loss.
• Use humidifiers to maintain moisture levels, making your home feel warmer at lower temperatures.

The Benefits of a Smart Thermostat

Investing in a smart thermostat can enhance your comfort and lead to more savings than manually adjusting your thermostat to the right temperature -- and they do all the work for you!

• Automated Adjustments: Smart thermostats learn your schedule and preferences, adjusting temperatures accordingly.
• Remote Access: Control your home’s temperature from anywhere using a smartphone app.
• Energy Usage Reports: Many smart thermostats provide insights into your energy consumption, helping you make more informed decisions.
• Integration with Other Smart Devices: Connect your thermostat to smart home systems for enhanced automation and efficiency. Typically, smart thermostat can be professionally installed by HVAC professionals.

Here's a Few More Energy-Saving Tips

1. Regular HVAC Maintenance: Routine tune-ups from C&G ensure your system operates at peak efficiency.
2. Upgrade Your Insulation: Proper insulation helps maintain indoor temperatures and reduces the workload on your HVAC system.
3. Use Zoned Heating and Cooling: If possible, implement zoning systems to heat or cool only the rooms you use most.
4. Dress for the Season: In winter, wear warm clothing indoors instead of raising the thermostat. In summer, opt for lightweight clothing to stay cool.
5. Limit Heat-Generating Appliances: Reduce the use of ovens, stoves and other heat-producing appliances during the hottest parts of the day in summer.

Choose C&G for Your Heating and Cooling Needs

Optimizing your thermostat settings is one of the easiest ways to improve comfort while reducing energy costs. And whether you need help programming a thermostat, installing a smart thermostat or servicing your HVAC system, our team at C & G Heating and Air Condition is here to assist you.

For expert advice and professional HVAC services, call our Alabama office at 334-489-3329. To learn more about our services, or to reach our Georgia location, click the link here.