Thermostat Settings for Energy Savings

Thermostat settings for energy savings: quick wins

Small adjustments add up quickly. These simple habits help Syracuse homeowners save energy without sacrificing comfort.

• Turn the thermostat down when sleeping or away
  Avoid big swings in temperature
  Use fans in summer to reduce AC demand
  Keep curtains closed on hot days and open on sunny winter mornings
  Check thermostat accuracy each season
  Replace filters regularly for better airflow

Even one or two of these changes can lower bills through Central New York’s seasonal extremes.

Summer thermostat settings: best thermostat temperature to save energy

Summer in Syracuse isn’t the hottest in New York, but humidity can still push AC systems harder than expected. A good balance of savings and comfort is keeping your thermostat around 78°F when home.

When away:

• Set cooling to 82–85°F
• Use “away” modes to reduce AC use
• Run ceiling fans to help air circulate

Humidity control makes a big difference. A slightly higher cooling temperature with proper dehumidification can feel just as comfortable as a colder setting.

If your AC can’t hold temperature, Cooney Air can evaluate system performance and recommend improvements.

Winter thermostat settings: your winter thermostat checklist

Winter in Syracuse is long, cold and snowy, so a smart winter thermostat strategy really matters. The right thermostat settings for energy savings keep your house comfortable while using less energy, so heating does not take over your utility budget. Aim for a thermostat setting of about 68 degrees during the day when people are home.

Aim for 68°F during the day:

• At night, lower the thermostat temperature to around 64–65°F to save energy while you sleep but still stay comfortable.
• When you are away for work or errands, adjust the thermostat settings 5 to 7 degrees lower for extra energy saving and long term savings on your bill.
• Use a programmable thermostat or smart thermostats with an energy saver schedule that preheats the house before you return. Many programmable models also send smart alerts if the system is not holding temperature.
• Choose a good thermostat location away from drafts, windows and heat sources so it reads the true air temperature and runs the HVAC system efficiently.
• Keep supply and return air vents fully open and use ceiling fans on low to gently push warm air down into the room.
• Check your HVAC system filter every month in peak season and schedule professional HVAC installation services or tune ups if your equipment is older or struggling to maintain temperature.

Cold Syracuse nights often drop into single digits, but a properly maintained HVAC system recovers heat quickly when your smart thermostat brings the temperature back up to your daytime setting. These winter habits also make it easier to dial in summer thermostat settings for cooling so you can save energy and save money all year long.

Programmable thermostat schedules that save energy

A smart or programmable thermostat helps keep your home comfortable while cutting wasted energy.

5-2 and 7-day schedule examples

For commuters:

• Morning: 68°F
• Away: 62-64°F
• Evening: 68-70°F
• Overnight: 64-65°F

For work-from-home households:

• Maintain 68-70°F during daytime hours
• Drop it slightly at night
• Adjust by room use or drafts

Vacation/away modes and smart alerts

Smart thermostats include features like:

• Away and vacation modes
• Freeze-protection alerts
• Mobile app adjustments
• Maintenance reminders

These are especially helpful during Syracuse snowstorms or extended travel.

Thermostat best practices & common mistakes

To keep your system efficient, try these practices:

Do:

• Make gradual adjustments
• Replace filters often
• Keep vents unblocked
• Confirm thermostat placement isn’t affected by drafts or sunlight

Avoid:

• Cranking the temperature up or down to “speed up” heating or cooling
• Closing several vents
• Turning the system off entirely in winter

If these issues happen often, your HVAC system may need attention.

Fine-tuning by home and system type

Every home in Central New York is a little different. Older Syracuse homes may struggle with drafts or uneven airflow. Newer builds in suburbs like Clay, Manlius, or Baldwinsville may respond better to zoning or smart sensors.

Your thermostat settings should consider:

• Your home’s size and insulation
• Furnace or heat pump type
• If you use radiators, ductwork, or hybrid systems
• How much sun your home receives
• Room usage and daily routine

If your HVAC system is aging or struggling to keep up, adjusting your thermostat can help, but professional hvac installation services or upgrades may eventually be a better long-term option.

Have Questions? Cooney Air Can Help

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