The right thermostat settings can save you hundreds of dollars a year without sacrificing comfort. Here's the data-backed guide for Inland Empire homeowners.
Your thermostat is the single most accessible control you have over your home's energy consumption. Small adjustments — even 1–2 degrees — can make a meaningful difference on your monthly utility bill. Here are the settings that energy experts and our technicians recommend for Southern California homeowners.
Summer Cooling Settings
When home: 78°F is the sweet spot recommended by the Department of Energy. It may feel warm if you're used to 72°F, but your body acclimates within a few days, and the savings are significant — every degree above 72°F saves approximately 3% on cooling costs.
When away: 85°F. There's no reason to cool an empty house. A programmable or smart thermostat can bring the temperature back down 30 minutes before you return home.
When sleeping: Most people sleep better in a slightly cooler environment — 75–78°F works well for most households.
Winter Heating Settings
When home: 68°F is the DOE recommendation for winter. Temecula winters are mild enough that this is comfortable for most people with appropriate clothing.
When away: 60–65°F. Unlike summer, you don't want to let the house get too cold — it takes more energy to reheat a very cold house than to maintain a moderate temperature.
When sleeping: 65–68°F. Cooler sleeping temperatures improve sleep quality for most people.
The Case for a Smart Thermostat
A programmable or smart thermostat automates these adjustments so you don't have to think about them. Smart thermostats like the Nest or Ecobee learn your schedule and preferences, can be controlled remotely, and provide energy usage reports that help you identify savings opportunities.
The average smart thermostat saves homeowners $130–$145 per year on energy costs — paying for itself in 1–2 years. On Time Home Services installs and programs smart thermostats throughout Temecula, Murrieta, and the Inland Empire. Call us at (951) 277-6895 to learn more.