Want to save money on energy bills without sacrificing your comfort? You’re not alone—and the good news is, adjusting your thermostat settings strategically can lead to big savings. As Minnesota-based HVAC experts, we know how brutal the winters and sticky the summers can get—but smart thermostat use helps you stay comfortable while keeping costs down.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best thermostat settings for summer and winter, plus simple tips to lower your utility bills all year round.
Best Thermostat Settings to Save Money: Season by Season
Summer Thermostat Settings
When You’re Home: Set to 78°F
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 78°F (25.5°C) is the ideal balance between comfort and energy efficiency during hot summer days. Pairing it with a ceiling fan makes the room feel up to 4°F cooler while using less electricity.
When You’re Away: Set to 88°F
When the house is empty, raise your thermostat to 88°F. This reduces unnecessary cooling and prevents your AC from running all day. Pro tip: Lowering the thermostat below 78°F when you return doesn’t cool your home faster—it just wastes energy.
When You’re Sleeping: Set to 70°F (If Comfortable)
Many people sleep better in cooler environments. If 70°F works for you, go for it—but make sure you’re not overworking the AC. Alternatively, open windows at night on cooler Minnesota evenings to naturally cool your home.
Winter Thermostat Settings
When You’re Home: Set to 68°F
Keep your thermostat at 68°F during the day while you’re home. Layer up with cozy clothes, and take advantage of heat-producing appliances like ovens when cooking.
When You’re Away: Set to 60°F
If you’re leaving the house, drop the temp to 60°F. Just don’t go below 50°F, especially in Minnesota winters, to avoid frozen pipes and other cold-weather issues.
When You’re Sleeping: Set Between 60–67°F
Your body naturally lowers its temperature at night. Setting your thermostat to 60–67°F not only saves energy but can improve your sleep quality. Use heavy blankets or a heated mattress pad to stay warm without cranking up the heat.
Quick Thermostat Tips to Save Money Year-Round
1. Install a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats adjust temperatures automatically based on your habits. Many Minnesota energy providers offer rebates for installing models like Nest, Ecobee, or Honeywell, helping you save upfront and long-term.
2. Program Your Thermostat
Even if you don’t have a smart model, a programmable thermostat lets you set custom temperatures by time of day and day of the week. Set it once, and let it handle the rest.
3. Use Ceiling Fans Wisely
- Summer: Run fans counterclockwise to create a cooling breeze.
- Winter: Run them clockwise at low speed to push warm air down from the ceiling.
4. Don’t Forget Insulation
Smart settings mean nothing if your home is leaking air. Seal drafty windows and doors and add insulation where needed. This one-time fix can slash energy waste year after year.
Why Smart Thermostat Settings Matter in Minnesota
In Minnesota, where winters can dip well below zero and summers are humid, every degree counts. Proper thermostat use can:
- ✅ Cut heating/cooling bills by up to 10% per year
- ✅ Reduce strain on your HVAC system
- ✅ Improve comfort and indoor air quality
- ✅ Extend the lifespan of your furnace and AC
In a Nutshell: Set Your Thermostat Smart, Save Big
By understanding how to set your thermostat to save money, you’re taking a powerful step toward energy efficiency and home comfort. Whether it’s 78°F in the summer or 68°F in the winter, small changes add up fast. Want to take your savings to the next level? Upgrade to a smart thermostat or schedule a professional HVAC inspection to maximize comfort and efficiency.
FAQs: How to Set Thermostat to Save Money
1. What’s the best thermostat setting for winter?
Set it to 68°F while you’re home, and lower it by 7–10°F when you’re asleep or away to reduce energy costs.
2. Can adjusting my thermostat really save money?
Yes! You can save up to 10% per year on heating and cooling by using smart or programmable settings consistently.
3. Is a smart thermostat worth it?
Absolutely. Smart thermostats help automate savings, offer remote control via smartphone, and may qualify for energy rebates in Minnesota.
