What Temperature to Set Your Thermostat At
Maintaining the right thermostat temperature is not only crucial for your comfort but also for energy efficiency and cost savings. Adjusting your thermostat settings based on the season and whether or not you are home can significantly impact your overall comfort and reduce energy consumption.
If you reside in Phoenix or Tucson, Arizona, you’re familiar with the desert weather. During the spring, residents can expect temperatures ranging from around 70°F to 90°F, while the summers bring hot weather with average temperatures ranging from about 90°F to 105°F. Comparatively, winters in the valley remain mild, with temperatures ranging from around 65°F during the day to 45°F at night.
Determining the most efficient setting for your HVAC system is important if you live in Phoenix or any other location with hot climates. An efficient HVAC system can help you save energy, reduce utility bills, and contribute to environmental sustainability.
In this blog post, we’ll share the recommended thermostat setting for all seasons and what you should set your thermostat to when you plan to be away from home for extended periods. Achieve the perfect balance between comfort and energy efficiency by following these expert tips from the insights provided in this blog post.
How to Determine the Right Temperature for Your Home
Determining the ideal temperature to set your thermostat depends on several factors, including personal comfort, energy efficiency, and the season. Here are some guidelines to help you determine what temperature to set your thermostat at:
- Consider personal comfort: Set your thermostat to a temperature that is comfortable for you and your household members. This can vary from person to person, so consider factors such as age, clothing, activity level, and individual preferences.
- Optimize energy efficiency: Setting your thermostat to a temperature that promotes energy efficiency can help you save on heating and cooling costs. In general, the closer the indoor temperature is to the outdoor temperature, the more energy you can save. However, finding the right balance between comfort and energy efficiency is essential.
- Programmable thermostats: If you have a programmable thermostat, take advantage of its features to set different temperature levels based on your daily schedule. For example, you can program it to lower the temperature during sleeping hours or when you’re away from home and raise it before you wake up or return.
- Experiment and adjust: Each household and climate is unique, so it’s essential to experiment and find the best temperature settings for you. Start with the recommended ranges and adjust over time based on your comfort and energy savings.
- Remember that maintaining consistent temperatures and avoiding frequent adjustments can also contribute to energy efficiency. Additionally, insulation, weatherstripping, and other home efficiency measures can further help regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy consumption.
What To Do Before Turning On Your Thermostat
Before turning on your thermostat for each new season, there are a few steps you can take to ensure optimal performance and efficiency:
Check the Air Filters: Inspect and clean or replace the air filters. Dirty filters restrict airflow and can hinder the efficiency of your HVAC system. Clean filters promote better indoor air quality and help the system operate efficiently.
Clear Obstructions: Remove any obstructions around the vents and registers. Ensure that no objects are blocking the airflow, as this can restrict the distribution of conditioned air throughout your home.
Clean the Vents and Registers: Dust and debris can accumulate on vents and registers over time. Clean them thoroughly to ensure unobstructed airflow. Vacuum or wipe them with a damp cloth to remove dirt or dust buildup.
Check the Thermostat Settings: Verify the settings on your thermostat. Ensure that the temperature is set to your desired comfort level and that any programming or scheduling is adjusted correctly. If your thermostat has batteries, replace them if needed.
Inspect the Wiring: If you feel comfortable doing so, inspect the wiring connections on your thermostat. Ensure that they are secure and undamaged. Loose or faulty wiring can cause issues with the thermostat’s functionality.
Test the System: Turn on your thermostat and set it to your desired temperature. Check if the HVAC system responds accordingly. Listen for any unusual sounds or vibrations that may indicate a problem.
Schedule Professional Maintenance: Consider scheduling a professional HVAC maintenance service with Chas Roberts. At your appointment, one of our qualified technicians will perform a thorough inspection, cleaning, and tune-up of your HVAC system. They can identify any potential issues and ensure that your system is in optimal condition.
Following these steps before turning on your thermostat can help ensure that your HVAC system operates efficiently, provides optimal comfort, and minimizes the risk of unexpected problems during operation.
Recommended Thermostat Settings
Recommended temperature ranges can vary based on your location and personal preferences. The following temperature ranges are for those residing in the Arizona Valley and serve as a starting point, but you can adjust them according to your preferences:
Thermostat Setting for Spring in Arizona
During spring, when the weather starts to warm up but isn’t scorching yet, it’s important to set your thermostat to a temperature that keeps you comfortable while conserving energy. We recommend setting your thermostat to around 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature range ensures a comfortable indoor environment while avoiding unnecessary energy consumption. Consider utilizing a programmable thermostat to adjust temperatures based on your family’s daily schedule and the changing weather patterns.
Thermostat Setting for Summer in Arizona
Living in Arizona, where summers can be extremely hot, it’s important to find a balance between staying comfortable and conserving energy. We recommend setting your thermostat to around 78 degrees Fahrenheit when you are at home and active. However, if you prefer a cooler environment, you can set it between 72°F and 76°F degrees.
If you need additional cooling, consider the use of fans or shading. To enhance comfort without relying solely on your air conditioner, use ceiling or portable fans to create a cooling breeze. Additionally, utilize blinds, curtains, or window coverings to block out direct sunlight and to help reduce heat from inside your home.
Thermostat Setting for Winter in Arizona
Arizona winters are typically mild compared to other regions. However, temperatures can still drop, especially during nighttime. During the daytime, when you’re home and active, consider setting your thermostat between 68°F and 72°F. At night, we recommend setting your thermostat between 60- and 65-degrees Fahrenheit.
Thermostat Setting When Your Away from Home
When you or your family is away from home, adjusting the thermostat settings can help conserve energy and reduce utility costs. Even if it’s a quick trip to Phoenix or Tucson, we recommend increasing the temperature by approximately 7 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit from your typical at-home temperature.
If you have pets, it’s also critical to consider their comfort and safety while remaining energy efficient. Generally, dogs and cats are comfortable within a similar temperature range as humans. Set your thermostat between 78°F and 80°F during Arizona warmer months and between 68°F and 72°F during colder months.
As mentioned earlier, a programmable thermostat can be useful when managing the temperatures inside your home. It is especially beneficial when you’re not home, enabling you to automatically raise the temperature when the house is empty and lower it shortly before your family returns. This way, you can enjoy energy savings without sacrificing comfort.
Chas Roberts offers system enhancements, such as programmable thermostats, to promote longevity, comfort, and efficiency for your home. Contact the experts you can trust for more pricing and installation information.
Find Your Perfect Temperature Setting and Save Money on Utility Bills with Chas Roberts
By understanding the recommended thermostat settings for spring, summer, and winter, you can create a comfortable living environment while optimizing energy efficiency. Experiment with the suggested temperature ranges, consider using programmable or smart thermostats, and implement additional tips for even more savings.
Chas Roberts services 28 cities in Metro Phoenix and Tucson and provides exceptional, one-on-one customer service and knowledgeable advice on your A/C. If you’re experiencing an A/C emergency, give us a call now. Our services include weekends and holidays with no additional cost.
Family-owned and operated Chas Roberts is the largest HVAC company in Arizona and has been in business for over 75 years. Contact our Metro Phoenix office at 602.386.2732 or our Tucson office at 520.549.4172.
